Week two of the preseason is in the books. We take a look at how the Pittsburgh Steelers matched up against the Atlanta Falcons.
The beginning of the game was rough as the offense gained five yards on two Dobbs passes before going three and out and having to punt.
The defense would not look better as they gave up a 91 yard touchdown drive to the Atlanta offense. Artie Burns also drew a personal foul on the drive angering head coach Mike Tomlin.
The offense took another crack and again went three and out. The defense of Atlanta got great pressure and push up front on the first two Steeler drives.
The first quarter was a rough outing. Atlanta shredded the Steelers defense and the offense could only muster 11 yards of total offense.
James Conner did not start but did came in for action in the second quarter. He showed good patience and cutting ability in his first few carries.
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The first half was pedestrian to say the least. The defense did not look to be in the game at all and the offense was not moving the ball.
James Conner came out in the second half showing his up-the-middle ability. He finished runs well and got everything he could with each carry.
Josh Dobbs was nothing spectacular, although, he did seem to put throws where they needed. Aside from a couple of errant passes, he but back shoulder throws where only his guy could get them.
Dobbs did show the ability to escape the pocket and avoid sacks. His mobility is a bright spot in his game thus far in his career.
Watt did not play a bunch in this game and that likely has to do with him proving in camp and week one that he is worthy of a starting spot.
Anthony Chickillo took advantage of this as he provided great push up front off the edge. He got himself two sacks in the game.
Coverage was an issue much of the first half but looked better in the second half. The front seven continued to get good push up front collapsing the pocket around the quarterback.
Special teams play was the big story of the game. They displayed good coverage on kickoffs and punts including a blocked punt to close out the second half.
Trey Williams also added a punt return touchdown at the end of the third quarter. With the Steelers trying to find way to get Antonio Brown off returns, Williams did well to show what he can do.
Overall the team looked to have taken a slight step back this week. Although this was an actual game action, it is important to remember this is just the preseason.
Next: Don't jump the gun on James Conner
Next week the Steelers will battle Indianapolis next week in the “dress rehearsal”. Week three is typically where starters get the most action and because of that, fans should pay extra attention in that game.