Atlanta, GA
Sep 8, 2024
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The Pittsburgh Steelers emerged victorious against the Atlanta Falcons in a tightly contested 18-10 season opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, largely due to Chris Boswell's exceptional kicking performance. Boswell accounted for all of Pittsburgh's scoring with six field goals, including a career-high 57-yarder. Justin Fields, substituting for an injured Russell Wilson, efficiently managed the Steelers' offense and benefitted from Boswell's long-range precision. The Steelers' defense, spearheaded by T.J. Watt, forced crucial turnovers and maintained pressure on Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, notably during the second half, holding Atlanta scoreless. Cousins, in his debut as a Falcon, faced relentless defensive pressure, which led to mistakes and a pair of interceptions.
Pittsburgh's strategy was clear: capitalizing on Atlanta's turnovers while keeping the play-calling conservative. Despite a determined effort from the Falcons, highlighted by Bijan Robinson's versatile plays and Cousins' touchdown pass to Kyle Pitts, Atlanta's offense struggled in the key moments. The Steelers' defense, predominantly through Watt's playmaking ability, consistently thwarted Atlanta's advances. Fields and Boswell's significant contributions, paired with a standout defensive effort, ultimately sealed the victory, posing a formidable challenge for new head coach Raheem Morris and raising questions about Atlanta's offensive capabilities in the season ahead.
Younghoe Koo (ATL)
Kicked a 24-yard field goal that initiated the Falcons' scoring, setting an early lead amidst a heavily contested opening quarter.
Chris Boswell (PIT)
Tied the game with a remarkable 57-yard field goal, demonstrating his extended range and composure under pressure.
Kirk Cousins (ATL)
Threw a precise 12-yard touchdown pass to Kyle Pitts, ensuring the Falcons took a narrow lead into halftime.
T.J. Watt (PIT)
Recovered a fumble, swinging momentum in Pittsburgh's favor and reinforcing their robust defensive stand.
Chris Boswell (PIT)
Delivered a 56-yard field goal, reaffirming the Steelers' lead and underscoring his pivotal role in the scoring column.
Donte Jackson (PIT)
Clinched a game-sealing interception from Kirk Cousins, punctuating the Steelers' defensive mastery in crucial moments.
Chris Boswell (PIT)
Kicked a decisive 25-yard field goal, extending the lead to ensure the Steelers' triumph in the closing moments.
Chris Boswell (PIT, K)
Exhibited precision kicking by netting six field goals, including attempts beyond 50 yards, effectively securing all of Pittsburgh's points and showcasing versatility by stepping in as an emergency punter.
T.J. Watt (PIT, LB)
Lead the defensive charge with a fumble recovery and an interception, dominating the field and applying unyielding pressure on Cousins throughout the game.
Justin Fields (PIT, QB)
Provided steady leadership as he stepped in for Wilson, his mobility and tactical game management maintaining the steadiness necessary to leverage Boswell's kicking prowess.
Bijan Robinson (ATL, RB)
Showcased his explosive running and catching abilities, providing a spark for Atlanta's offense despite facing a relentless Steelers defense.
Kirk Cousins (ATL, QB)
Navigated a pressure-filled game, delivering a key touchdown pass, yet ultimately faltered against Pittsburgh's defensive might, highlighted by two costly interceptions.
George Pickens (PIT, WR)
Made crucial receptions that extended offensive drives, contributing significantly to the tempo and strategic play-calling in favor of Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Steelers
3
6
6
3
18
Atlanta Falcons
3
7
0
0
10
