The Pittsburgh Steelers were practically unrecognizable from their 2023 preseason performance after a big loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1. With a final score of 30-7, Pittsburgh will have a lot to improve on for their next game. Having only 239 total yards of total offense, the Steelers were simply appalling and got shut out in the second half after falling behind 20-0 at a point in the first. Regardless of the promising display he exhibited during the preseason, Kenny Pickett's accuracy throughout the game today was sporadic at best.
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Steelers Kenny Pickett 2023
The Steelers only touchdown came from a threaded three-yard pass to Pat Freiermuth towards the end of the first half. On each of their first five drives, the Steelers either punted or turned the ball over, failing to get any first downs while the 49ers gained a 20-point lead. With only 41 yards gained on 10 carries, they were never able to develop a successful running game of their own. Pittsburgh only carried the ball once throughout a two-minute drive and it resulted in a big gain and a late hit call on San Francisco.
Pittsburgh's offensive struggles were evident throughout the game, as they failed to secure a first down until well into the second quarter. Pickett's performance was far from ideal, as he consistently missed his intended targets with inaccurate throws.
The relentless pressure exerted by the 49ers defensive front had Pickett constantly on edge. As if this wasn't enough, Pittsburgh also had to endure the added blow of losing key players including Diontae Johnson (hamstring) and Cameron Heyward (groin) to injuries during the game.
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Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (#39)
Steelers Players Demoralized After Rough Week 1 Showing
In the locker room after the game, players were asked about their performance as a team and how they expect to improve after this loss. Minkah Fitzpatrick admitted that this was a frustrating loss, especially knowing that they are better than how they performed in this game.
"I know that we are a way better team than what we put on display today. We beat ourselves in a lot of areas."
Allen Robinson also spoke on their lack of execution, in particular.
"For us, you know, we have to execute and be able to get first downs. We didn't do that enough. Again, we started to get some explosive [plays] right before the halftime to be able to move the ball and kinda get a little bit of momentum, but, you know, for us it has to start much earlier."
Mason Cole added that they didn't do their part and got behind a lot.
"I don't think anybody's lacking confidence after this, just wasn't our day."
The Steelers, who are renowned for their defense, did not appear particularly outstanding in this facet. A potent 49ers offense was unstoppable because of the Steelers lack of defensive effort, which allowed 20 points in the first half before the 49ers scored on a two-play drive to open the second half. In terms of offense, the Steelers will have to find a way to create openings and move the ball much earlier than they did on Sunday.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers RB Najee Harris hurdles Chiefs CB L'Jarius Sneed on a run for a first down.
It should be noted, however, that offensive and defensive rankings are in no way indicative of the Pittsburgh Steelers' long-term performance. Their success will ultimately depend on their wins, which Najee Harris touched on.
"We had a game plan, we didn't execute it. We're not trying to be like last year, but going into Week 2 is just as important as Week 1 and we're gonna capitalize that and, you know, hopefully come out with a victory that week."
Alex Highsmith felt that they also struggled in communicating effectively and executing properly against the 49ers.
"Communication has got to be better next week. We've got to play more physical than we did. It's about doing your job, and so we didn't all do that today, and, you know, it showed."
After experiencing a loss like this one, the Steelers are going to have plenty of film to go over in order to learn from this game. This loss will hopefully serve as a wake-up call for Pittsburgh to make changes and get ready for their division rival the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football in Week 2. The Steelers are still counting on Pickett to take a step forward this season. With the amount of talent he and others possess on this team, the Steelers should continue to look to improve on both ends of the ball.
What were your takeaways from this game? Leave your thoughts in the comments!
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