On Saturday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers dominated the Buffalo Bills with a final score of 27-15. In a short amount of time, Steelers’ quarterback Kenny Pickett led two impressive touchdown drives. During the first possession, Pickett connected on a third down pass, setting up a remarkable 62-yard touchdown run by backup running back Jaylen Warren. Shortly after, on the first snap following a 54-yard punt return by Calvin Austin, Pickett found Pat Freiermuth for a 25-yard score. This outstanding performance by the Steelers’ starting lineup on both offense and defense showcased their readiness for the upcoming season opener against the San Francisco 49ers on September 10th.
Meanwhile, safety Damar Hamlin made a heartfelt return to his hometown of Pittsburgh, receiving a warm ovation from the crowd. Hamlin, who played college football at Pitt alongside Pickett, offered an inspiring moment during the opening coin toss as he hugged several Steelers players. Hamlin’s return from a near-death experience on the field in Cincinnati last January has been remarkable, and he contributed with three tackles in the first half against the Bills.
Despite the positive atmosphere surrounding Hamlin’s return, the Bills struggled to find their rhythm during the game. Quarterback Josh Allen completed 7 of 10 passes in his only preseason appearance but failed to lead the Bills to any points in three series. Although the Bills reached Pittsburgh territory on their second drive, they were subsequently pushed out of scoring position due to penalties on three consecutive plays. Wide receiver Stefon Diggs and rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid provided a few bright spots for Buffalo with their respective receptions.
Buffalo’s backup quarterback Matt Barkley had a tough outing, throwing three interceptions, one of which was intercepted by Steelers’ second-round pick, cornerback Joey Porter Jr. This turnover led to a touchdown pass from Mitch Trubisky to Connor Heyward just before halftime, extending the Steelers’ lead to 21-0.
One notable difference for the Steelers this season is their commitment to pushing the ball down the field, with Pickett firmly establishing himself as the starting quarterback. Although it is still mid-August, the early signs are promising, as demonstrated by the Steelers’ ability to make big plays. In this game alone, Jaylen Warren’s 62-yard touchdown run and Pat Freiermuth’s 25-yard touchdown catch showcased the team’s improved big-play ability. Last season, the Steelers struggled in this aspect, managing only one offensive touchdown longer than 24 yards throughout the entire year. However, in just two preseason games, the Steelers have already recorded four touchdowns of 25 yards or more, with three of them involving Pickett.
In terms of injuries, Buffalo offensive tackle Tommy Doyle was carted off the field in the third quarter due to a left knee injury. Additionally, Bills’ starting tight end Dawson Knox did not dress for the game due to a finger injury. On the Steelers’ side, starting defensive lineman Larry Ogunjobi missed his second consecutive game due to a foot/ankle injury, while backup offensive lineman Nate Herbig (shoulder) and safety Tre Norwood (leg) also did not play.
Prior to the game, the Steelers paid tribute to the late Hall of Fame running back Franco Harris by unveiling a jersey display in the Great Hall at Acrisure Stadium. Harris, who unexpectedly passed away at the age of 72, had his No. 32 jersey retired by the team last December. The unveiling ceremony included a speech by Harris’ longtime teammate Rocky Bleier and was attended by Harris’ widow Dana and their son Dok, who served as honorary captains for the game.
Looking ahead, the Buffalo Bills will visit the Chicago Bears next Saturday in their next preseason matchup.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
