The Pittsburgh Steelers haven’t played an overseas game in years, but it didn’t look like they had missed a beat. They came out firing early with a good game plan on both offense and defense.
Yes, the Minnesota Vikings made it close late, but Pittsburgh did enough to get their third win of the season. This was a needed victory ahead of the bye week.
The winners were plentiful in Ireland, and, thankfully, the losers were few. The Steelers certainly had the luck of the Irish on their side this week.
Pittsburgh Steelers saw their winners surge in win over the Minnesota Vikings
Steelers Winner: Patrick Queen
I have been very critical of Patrick Queen since he was signed, but this felt like a complete game for him. He was active in the run game and did well in coverage. He even flashed as a pass rusher. Now, he needs to stack good performances.
Steelers Winner: Keeanu Benton
It was a horrible start to the season for the Steelers' former second-round pick. Still used as a nose tackle, the Steelers weren’t getting the results they needed from Keeanu Benton. He was on the short list to be replaced due to his early-season struggles.
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He reminded everyone of what he would do today. His run defense wasn’t spectacular, but he looked like his explosive self as a pass rusher. He logged his first-ever multi-sack game and was disruptive all game. A perfect time to turn around his season after a horrible start to the season.
Steelers Loser: The Secondary
There were certainly some highs here, but overall, this group has felt very lackluster. Every player has flashed some individual success, but the Vikings shredded this unit late and kept themselves alive in this game. Given the numerous big-money ads, this group feels like it is underachieving.
Steelers Winner: Kenneth Gainwell
Jaylen Warren was a late addition to the injury report, which forced free agent signing Kenneth Gainwell into the lead role. He didn’t disappoint.
No, he wasn’t a conventional top option in the running game, but he took what was given and carved out a nice day on the ground. Add in his two touchdowns, and the offense didn’t feel like they couldn’t run even though their top back was out with an injury.
Steelers Loser: Punting the Ball
Despite needing half a yard, the Steelers decided to punt the ball late in the fourth quarter. The ensuing punt was a touchback, so you barely even pushed the Vikings back. It is a dumb call, and one that we have become accustomed to with the Steelers.
Steelers Winner: DK Metcalf
While DK Metcalf had some mild success early this season, he finally had his breakout game for the Steelers. He was featured early and often in this game and was electric on his long touchdown catch. This is exactly what you wanted from your top receiver.