The Steelers faced a lot of uncertainty heading into Saturday’s preseason opener against Seattle, but the team powered its way to a 32-25 win over the Seahawks, thanks to the efforts of multiple newcomers.
Mitch Trubisky and Mason Rudolph wasted no time in getting the Steelers a lead in the first quarter, paving the way for the defense to fill in the gaps and hold Seattle on defense, which they did. Despite tying the game on two occasions, the Seahawks never held the lead and the Steelers’ depth kept them ahead virtually throughout the entire game.
Head Coach Mike Tomlin said he was impressed with how the younger players took advantage of the opportunities they were given.
Tomlin adds that Saturday’s game was a great starting platform for development.
Trubisky, who the Steelers signed in the offseason, made the most of the limited time he got in the game, going 4-for-7 with 63 yards and a touchdown in his first drive. He said he was amped up for his first game with the Black and Gold.
First-round pick Kenny Pickett entered Saturday’s game to a roar of applause not just from the fans in attendance, but also from his former PITT teammates and coaches. He went 13-for-15 passing with 95 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winning pass to Tyler Vaughns with three seconds left. He said it was a special moment for him.
Wide receiver Gunner Olszewski caught the team’s first touchdown of the season and hauled in three catches for 47 yards on Saturday. He said the team’s performance was the result of great team preparation.
Second-round pick George Pickens said nerves were never a factor for him and he was geared in from the opening drive.
Tomlin also gave an injury update after the game. He said the team is “virtually injury-free,” but safety Karl Joseph is being evaluated for an ankle injury, and WR Calvin Austin suffered a foot injury on Friday which ruled him out for Saturday’s game. He adds both are day-to-day.
NFL PRESEASON SCOREBOARD
RAIDERS – 26 VIKINGS – 20
Nick Mullens looked good in the second half for Las Vegas, completing seven of his nine attempts for 94 yards and a touchdown. DJ Turner added three catches for 58 yards and a score. The Raiders are 2-and-0 in the preseason. Minnesota’s Kellen Mond threw for 119 yards and two touchdowns in the losing effort as the Vikings fall to 0-and-1 in preseason play.
