Steelers falter as Seahawks rally with 17 unanswered points in 31-17 defeat
The Pittsburgh Steelers, fresh off an impressive victory against the New York Jets, faced a harsh reality check in their home opener against the Seattle Seahawks. Despite showing flashes of promise, the Steelers were unable to maintain their momentum, ultimately falling 31-17.
Darnold and the Seahawks strike first
Sam Darnold led the Seahawks with precision, guiding them to an early lead that set the tone for the game. The Steelers briefly seized control with a 14-7 advantage, showcasing their potential on offense. However, the momentum shifted dramatically as Seattle responded with a flurry of scoring, ultimately putting together 17 unanswered points.
The turning point
The turning point came when Seattle capitalized on a series of missed opportunities by the Steelers. After Pittsburgh had briefly held the lead, Seattle’s offense found its rhythm, stringing together plays that exploited the Steelers’ defensive lapses. A late touchdown from the Seahawks solidified their dominance, leaving Pittsburgh to ponder their shortcomings.
Offensive questions loom for Pittsburgh
Despite the Steelers’ potential, questions abound regarding their offensive strategy and execution. Their 41-year-old quarterback, while experienced, requires protection and support from his line. The inconsistency in performance raises concerns about the team’s ability to compete at a high level moving forward.
The loss leaves the Steelers at a crossroads. They have the talent to be competitive, but the challenges on offense must be addressed if they hope to reclaim their winning form. As they head into upcoming matchups, the focus will be on tightening up their offensive game plan and ensuring their veteran quarterback is given the best chance to succeed.
