STEELERS WEEK 3: PITTSBURGH TEA PARTY

- Tyler Yasembousky, Contributor

The Pittsburgh Steelers went into Foxborough — a place they hadn’t won since 2008. Coming off a rough loss at home, the vibes weren’t exactly high. Add in how shaky the defense looked the first two weeks, and this one had all the makings of another long night.

But here’s the twist: this game was NOT pretty for either team… yet the Steelers finally played some defense! They forced five — yes, five — turnovers.

Now, you’d think forcing that many turnovers would lead to a blowout win.

​

Well… not exactly.

Once again, it came down to the wire. The Steelers needed another last-minute drive, and Aaron Rodgers delivered with a beautiful strike to Calvin Austin for the game-winning touchdown. Final score: 21–14.

The curse is broken — Pittsburgh finally won a game in New England.

As much as I’d like to call this a statement win, it still felt like a game the Steelers probably should have lost. The offense continues to look mediocre at best. Week 1 against the Jets is the only time they’ve looked explosive, and let’s be honest, that had more to do with how bad the Jets’ defense is than anything Pittsburgh did.

Still, credit where it’s due: the defense finally showed up and made big plays. That’s the biggest positive to take away.

Next up, the Steelers head to Dublin, Ireland to face the Minnesota Vikings. On paper, this looks like a one-sided matchup, with the Vikings favored to handle business. The only wrinkle? Minnesota is starting backup QB Carson Wentz. Could that be enough to swing things? Maybe. But realistically, the Vikings probably still have the upper hand.

For now, though, the Steelers can celebrate. They walked into Foxborough and spoiled New England’s little tea party.