The Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) faced the New England Patriots (1-1). Before the game, the Steelers added RB Trey Sermon, with Jaylen Warren expected to play a key role. Patriots’ CB Christian Gonzalez was out, exposing a secondary vulnerable to big plays. The Steelers’ defense (29th, 31.5 PPG) was missing Alex Highsmith, Joey Porter Jr., and DeShon Elliott. Rookie DT Derrick Harmon made his NFL debut. T.J. Watt’s value was being debated as he had gone sackless for six straight games.
Steelers Kept Composure
The Steelers kept their composure and eked out a victory in New England—the first since 2008.