The Pittsburgh Steelers had a rough loss in Week 2 to the New England Patriots.
The Pittsburgh Steelers were dominated from start to finish in their 20-3 loss to the New England Patriots in Week 2.
It was a long day for Aaron Rodgers and the offense, as he completed 23 of 39 passes for 187 yards, zero touchdowns, and one interception. Rodgers also had two fumbles, losing one.
The offense struggled through the air in Michael Pittman Jr.'s absence, and star wideout DK Metcalf was unable to get going, finishing with four catches for 27 yards on nine targets.
Germie Bernard finished as the leading receiver for the Steelers offense with four receptions for 35 yards.
Rodgers was under constant duress in the pocket, being hit seven times and sacked four times.
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectThe run game didn't do much better, with Jaylen Warren rushing for 43 yards on 11 carries, while Rico Dowdle had 22 yards on seven carries.
The Steelers will need the offensive line to elevate their play for the rest of the season if the offense is going to put up points. They haven't been able to create holes in the run game or give Rodgers time to deliver the ball downfield.
Mike McCarthy's offense will be unable to lead the way for Pittsburgh if the offensive line continues to struggle to win at the line of scrimmage.
On defense, the Steelers had some impressive plays, but it was a long day with the offense struggling to move the ball. Patrick Queen came away with an interception of Drake Maye, while Payton Wilson recovered a fumble by Rhamondre Stevenson.
The pass rush was also active for Pittsburgh, with three sacks and eight tackles for loss, led by T.J. Watt with 1.5 sacks.
Once star cornerback Joey Porter Jr. returns, the Steelers could establish themselves as one of the league's best defenses. If the offense becomes an average-to-above-average unit, Pittsburgh will have a shot to repeat as AFC North Champions and make it back to the postseason.
The Steelers have plenty to improve upon heading into Week 3 against a tough divisional opponent in the 2-0 Cincinnati Bengals.
