Patriots’ Dominant First Half Sets the Tone
In a formidable showdown at Acrisure Stadium, Bailey Zappe's three first-half touchdown passes propel the Patriots to a substantial 21-3 lead, putting the Steelers in a challenging position.
The Steelers, now with a 7-6 season record, suffer a second straight defeat, raising concerns about their playoff prospects. Their initial 5th spot in the AFC playoff field is now under threat.
Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin recognizes the pivotal moments where the Patriots capitalized, expressing the need for crucial plays. Meanwhile, the Patriots secure a 3-10 record, creating a challenging scenario for the Steelers in the playoff race.
With Mitch Trubisky starting in place of the injured Kenny Pickett, the Steelers’ offense faces early struggles. Trubisky’s first start since the previous season’s Week 14 win at Carolina does not yield the desired results against the Patriots.
Patriots’ Offensive Showcase Overshadows Steelers in First Half Clash
For a game featuring two teams with a combined average of 28 points per night, the first half unfolded with an unexpected offensive display, largely dominated by the Patriots.
Bailey Zappe orchestrated an impressive 8-play, 75-yard touchdown drive to kick off the game, showcasing his versatility by converting a crucial third-and-9 with an 11-yard run. A 37-yard connection to JuJu Smith-Schuster and an 11-yard touchdown pass to Ezekiel Elliott quickly gave the Patriots a 7-0 lead.
In response, the Steelers managed a field goal drive, reaching the New England 35 before settling for a 56-yard field goal from Chris Boswell, narrowing the gap to 7-3.
The second quarter opened with a setback for the Steelers as Mitch Trubisky’s third-down pass was intercepted by safety Jabrill Peppers, leading to a 32-yard return to the Pittsburgh 11. Two plays later, Zappe connected with Hunter Henry for an 8-yard touchdown, extending the Patriots’ lead to 14-3.
Patriots Capitalize on Punting Opportunity
Taking advantage of a 34-yard punt, the Patriots initiated their next touchdown drive. Zappe’s 28-yard connection with Smith-Schuster and a subsequent 24-yard touchdown pass to Henry, over the outstretched hand of safety Damontae Kazee, propelled the Patriots to a commanding 21-3 lead.
The Steelers managed to answer with a 75-yard touchdown drive, culminating in a 25-yard pass from Trubisky to Diontae Johnson. The halftime score stood at 21-10, with the Steelers narrowing the deficit.
Bailey Zappe concluded the half with an impressive 14 of 21 for 196 yards and three touchdowns. His overall performance included 19 completions on 28 attempts for 222 yards.
In a closely contested matchup, the Steelers staged a comeback attempt in the second half but were unable to secure the win, succumbing to the Patriots with a final score of 21-18.
Turnover Frustration and Aggressive Play
The Steelers showed promise on the opening possession of the second half, reaching the New England 44. However, a sack on third down forced Trubisky and the offense to punt.
Cam Heyward’s crucial sack marked a career milestone, tying James Harrison for the second-most sacks in team history at 80.5. Despite the defensive effort, the offense went three-and-out, relinquishing possession back to the Patriots.
A tipped pass by Elandon Roberts resulted in an interception by Mykal Walker, placing the Steelers in a promising position at the New England 16. Despite the opportunity, the Steelers fell short on fourth-and-2, opting for an aggressive play that gained just one yard.
Coach Tomlin defended the decision, stating, “We play to win. We wanted to be aggressive. We just didn’t get it done.”
The Steelers’ defense once again forced a punt, and Miles Killebrew’s second block of the season provided a spark. Taking over at the New England 26, Trubisky executed a 1-yard quarterback sneak, followed by a successful 2-point conversion pass to Freiermuth, narrowing the Patriots’ lead to 21-18 with 11:44 remaining in the game.
Missed Opportunities and Controversial Offside Call
Despite multiple opportunities to regain the lead, the Steelers were unable to move across midfield on their subsequent possessions. A controversial offside call, where Patriots linebacker Jahlani Tavai’s apparent infraction was negated after officials ruled he had been drawn offside, added to the frustration.
Tomlin expressed his disagreement, saying, “I was given an explanation. I don’t know that I agree with it, but I was given an explanation.”
In their last possession before the two-minute warning, the Steelers pushed to their own 49. However, Trubisky’s overthrown pass on third-and-2 and an incomplete deep attempt on fourth down resulted in a turnover to the Patriots. Despite clock management challenges, the Patriots secured the win, running out the clock down to 15 seconds before giving the ball back at the Pittsburgh 13.
Trubisky’s final stats were 22 of 36 for 190 yards with one touchdown and one interception, including a rushing score. The Steelers’ offense generated 264 yards compared to New England’s 303.
