Over-anticipation causes Steelers' gunner to freeze under pressure in Week 10

In Week 10, the Pittsburgh Steelers found themselves in a risky situation after a failed fake punt attempt early in the game against the Washington Commanders. Known for his bold approach, special teams coordinator Danny Smith dialed up the unexpected on a fourth-and-15, hoping to catch Washington off guard and give Pittsburgh a crucial momentum swing.

But the gamble didn’t go as planned, as it almost costing the Steelers the game.

Smith has built a reputation around the league for calling creative special teams plays, often pushing the limits to secure critical first downs. On Sunday, he had cornerback James Pierre lined up as the target for the punt pass, a play the Steelers had been practicing all week. Pierre was prepared and confident, catching passes in practice in anticipation of his big moment. However, when game time arrived, the pressure proved too much.

“I knew it was coming all week. I practiced all week for it. I caught it all week. Then when it came, I was ready to go—too ready,” Pierre admitted after the game.

Unfortunately, Pierre’s readiness turned to overwhelming excitement, and the pass slipped out of reach, leaving the Steelers unable to convert the play. Instead of sustaining a promising drive, Pittsburgh handed Washington favorable field position, and the Commanders capitalized immediately, turning the misstep into seven points.

Steelers recovered after handing Washington a seven-point handicap

Despite the blunder, the Steelers coaching staff showed unwavering confidence in their team’s ability to finish strong. The Pittsburgh defense tightened up, and the offense responded, determined to overcome the setback.

Late in the game, with the Steelers needing a big play, quarterback Russell Wilson connected with wide receiver Mike Williams on a 32-yard touchdown pass, sealing a thrilling 28-27 victory and Pittsburgh’s seventh win.

While the fake punt failure could have been costly, it underscored the Steelers’ willingness to take calculated risks and push boundaries. Danny Smith’s special teams unit has been an asset all season, and the creativity in play-calling shows the coaching staff’s belief in their players.

This confidence is not only a testament to Smith’s leadership but also highlights the Steelers’ aggressive, never-give-up mentality under head coach Mike Tomlin.

As the Steelers continue their playoff push, fans can expect more creative plays from Smith and his special teams squad. James Pierre, who has learned from the experience, will be ready for the next opportunity to make a game-changing play. Despite a tough moment, the Steelers showed they’re unafraid to be bold, trusting each player to rise to the occasion and deliver when it counts most.