On Thursday night, the NFL world got to see the Pittsburgh Steelers get back to some good old-fashioned smash-mouth football. The result was a gritty, physical slugfest against the Tennessee Titans with Pittsburgh coming out on top 20-16. Here are our studs and duds from the win.
Stud - RB Jaylen Warren
The Steelers run game finally found some traction on Thursday night and much of it had to do with the explosiveness of Jaylen Warren. Najee Harris was excellent as well and this was the best tandem performance of the year.
Dud - QB Kenny Pickett
We cannot excuse how poorly Kenny Pickett played on his rib injury because he’s been missing these easy throws all year long. There doesn’t seem to be much growth by Pickett in terms of his touch and even his velocity isn’t where you would like to see it.
Stud - OT Broderick Jones
The rookie got the call at right tackle and he really stepped up. It’s one thing to be able to stonewall pass rushers but his level of athleticism was on full display as he pulled on multiple run plays and helped create running lanes for Harris and Warren.
Dud - CB Joey Porter Jr.
This was an ugly performance by the rookie. His unwillingness to tackle is still a problem and his lack of strength really showed. But just as bad were the penalties and sloppy play.
Stud - EDGE T.J. Watt
T.J. Watt was in the midst of so many plays on Thursday night that despite only getting one sack, he once again drew tons of attention. Watt was still able to Titans quarterback Will Levis and hit him enough times to keep him somewhat off balance.
Dud - CB Patrick Peterson
You hate to see both your starting cornerbacks on this list but Peterson had a game just as disappointing as Porter did. The Steelers tried to move him inside and at safety but he doesn’t seem very comfortable in either position.
Stud - RB Najee Harris
Not to be outdone by Warren, Najee Harris stepped up his game as well. Harris ran with fresh legs and an extra pop in his step. Harris and Warren’s consistency allowed the Steelers to fully commit to the run.
Dud - WR George Pickens
At some point, George Pickens is going to have to figure out how to get targets when being double-teamed. Pickens gets by on his raw athleticism but he’s going to have to really work on the polish in his routes and play with more suddenness before he gets the football if he wants to beat those double teams.
