With the NFL transitioning into a more global product, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Minnesota Vikings in the inaugural game in Dublin, Ireland. This game was mainly controlled by the Steelers until two fourth-quarter touchdowns by Minnesota. Pittsburgh would edge out the Vikings 24-21 and move to 3-1 on the season. Here are my three takeaways from watching the NFL’s first game in Dublin.
Is the Steelers’ Defense Back?
Over the first two games, the issue for Pittsburgh was its defense. It’s been the first time since Mike Tomlin assumed the reins of the Steelers head coach that his side of the ball had given up 30+ points in the first two weeks of the season. However, in weeks 3-4, their defense has turned up. They’ve allowed 17.5 ppg over their two-game winning streak, forcing seven turnovers, and recording 11 sacks.
A player who was under the microscope through the first month of the season was T.J. Watt. He was on the longest stretch in his career without a sack. In the past two weeks, Watt has three sacks, four QB hits, and forced two turnovers, including an interception. When you are one of the best edge rushers in the NFL and can impact the game like a DB, he is the definition of a force multiplier. If the defense can continue its stellar play, watch out, AFC.
Pittsburgh’s Young Offensive Line is Improving
When the Steelers signed Aaron Rodgers, my biggest concern was the state of their offensive line. Despite their potential to be a very talented line, they are very young. Four of their five starters have played three or fewer seasons in the NFL. Allowing seven sacks through their first two games wasn’t a recipe for success when you have a 40-year-old quarterback. Over their last two games, they have allowed only two sacks, including zero against the New England Patriots.
Some sayings will ring true no matter the era of football. He who controls the line of scrimmage controls the game. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ o-line has been a revolving door since their “Killer B’s” era. With youth on their side, they will continue to build cohesion and chemistry throughout the season.
Metcalf’s Explosion
DK Metcalf had by far his best performance as a Pittsburgh Steeler. The 122 receiving yards he recorded in the first half were against a defense that is allowing 151 passing yards per game through the first four weeks. His ability to generate YAC yards (yards after the catch) was demonstrated on his 80-yard touchdown reception, where he recorded 66 yards after the catch. He ranks number one in YAC amongst wide receivers.
When you trade George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, you’d better have the ability to rely on a receiver to take up his production and then some. Metcalf is a proven commodity who demands a double team on every snap. And, he has impressed me with his willingness to block. His frame and mentality are built for the AFC North.
Final Thoughts
As a Steelers fan, I was highly impressed with the win in Dublin. Next week is their bye week, which is good and bad. It’s beneficial in the sense of promoting health and addressing any glaring issues early in the season. It isn’t good because it’s so early in the season. Come Weeks 13 and 14, a veteran team could use a break, but it isn’t to be this season. Overall, it was a great win against a talented Vikings team, as the Steelers are building momentum as they enter the bye.
As always, thank you so much for checking out my thoughts and takeaways from the Pittsburgh Steelers’ win over the Minnesota Vikings! Be sure to check out our other amazing content here at New Leaf News! We hope you’re enjoying your day, and we look forward to seeing you all again soon.
