It was a very close game in Week 3 for the Steelers but it was a win nonetheless for the home team. The 28-21 victory was secured by a nice run game that allowed the offense to run out the clock.
The game saw a lot of highs and lows for the Steelers as the first half made it seem like it would be a shootout. The defense struggled to stop Deshaun Watson as he created plays and torched the secondary for the majority of the first half.
The second half adjustments for the Steelers were the biggest things to occur at halftime as Pittsburgh was able to outplay Houston for the last 30 minutes of the game. Another huge factor in this game was no turnovers by the Steelers. Fortunately, Pittsburgh was able to hang on and win their third consecutive game to start the season by a score of 28-21.
There were many great outings in this game for the Steelers but the best was by running back, James Conner. After a tough go of things in the first couple of games, Conner showed why he should be the featured back going forward on this team. He was able to get great blocking by his offensive line and finish off runs. He was also able to show his ability as a pass-catcher, which he hasn’t shown much recently.
Steelers RB James Conner stepped up to the plate.
Conner was helped in his efforts by amazing run blocking throughout the game. Sunday saw the back get 109 rushing yards on 18 carries, four receptions that totaled 40 yards, and one rushing touchdown. That ability to be an all-around back is something Conner was able to accomplish consistently in his break out season.
The fourth-year running back had by far his most consistent game of the season, as he continually churned out yardage. He was a big part of the offense and helped ware down a tiring Houston defense.
If Conner can stay healthy and be consistently an all-around back then he will be one of the best in the league. It was a great game by the former Pitt Panther today and it seems like a bright future for his season.
The game saw Pittsburgh win a close one but it showed the offense can score a lot of points. The Texans came into this game super desperate for a win. When you add that on top of their team being better than their record, then you see a recipe for a tough fight ahead. The Steelers were able to subdue that push and win this game off the backs of their entire team but especially the performance of Conner.
Conner was the Week 3 Player of the Game for the Steelers but this was a team win. The halftime adjustments made secured this team victory after a poor first half.