By Ray Porter Jr.
ATLANTA, GA–The Pittsburgh Steelers continued their mastery over the Atlanta Falcons during the Mike Tomlin era as they defeated them 18-10 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The Steelers head coach is now 5-0 against Atlanta.
“Man, I’m just appreciative of the efforts of our guys. It was a fight. Obviously, we weren’t perfect,” said Tomlin. “There’s Week 1-like things, particularly early in the game. We warmed up to it defensively. We dropped a pick or something there early. They converted some third downs and started the game with a field goal. That’s not why we put our defense on the field to start the game.”
It certainly wasn’t the way the Steelers envisioned their day would go, despite the many adjustments they had to make before the game: QB Justin Fields named starter after veteran Russell Wilson re-aggravated his calf on Thursday. Per reports, it was a Game-time decision to determine if Wilson would start or not until Tomlin made the decision to make Fields starter, veteran Kyle Allen #2, and Wilson #3. The Steelers were also without offensive lineman Isaac Seumalo (who was replaced by Spencer Anderson) and were without rookie WR Roman Wilson.
Despite it all, the Steelers were able to get the victory thanks to much-needed points off the foot of K Chris Boswell, whose six field goals provided all the points.
“Man, we all know what he’s capable of. I don’t think anybody in that locker room is surprised by what he was able to do. As a matter of fact, he loves it,” Tomlin said. “You know what I mean? I’ve been around this guy a long time, man. He wants the long ball. He’s built for it. I think it’s just really displayed in my confidence in him. I don’t have any hesitation to send him out there. As a matter of fact, I look forward to sending him out there because I know he relishes it. So, we’re thankful for that.”
This is the 3rd time in Boswell’s career that he’s made 6 field goals (Which ties a team record), and he is also the is the first kicker in Steelers history with three or more Field goals of 50+ yards in a game (57, 51 and 56). He also holds the NFL Playoff record for field goals, also with six.
“Yeah, it definitely feels good, but I mean we are right back on to the next week and whatever I did this week has no relevance to next week,” said Boswell.
Fields had his challenges which included fumbled snaps with Rookie C Zach Fraizer, but he managed an effective game, passing for 156 yards (17/23) and rushing for 57 yards. He was also able to get the ball to WR George Pickens who caught 8 passes for 85 yards.
“Really appreciative of his efforts and his play, certainly.”-Said Tomlin about Fields.
When Tomlin was asked about his decision to start Field, he replied “It’s really not a long, drawn-out process. I’d rather deal with short-term misery, to be quite honest with you. We’re in Week 1. There’s a lot of ball out in front of us. I just thought it was appropriate to put the healthy guys on the field. I felt good about both quarterbacks. I was very clear to you guys when I named Russ the starter how comfortable I was with both quarterbacks…that was a thought process. It wasn’t a lot of discussion. Russ was very supportive today, and that was appreciated. But we went with Justin. I’m glad we got two real capable quarterbacks, as I’ve mentioned before.”
Although the Steelers gave up a TD to the Falcons (0-1), they kept the pressure on QB Kirk Cousins (16/26, 155 yards), sacking him twice (LB TJ Watt, DE Montravious Adams). S DeShon Elliott and CB Donte Jackson provided the interceptions.
When asked about the Defense’s ability to shut the Falcons out in the second half, Tomlin replied “You know, I’m appreciative of that. But to be quite honest with you, man, we got high standards and expectations for this group.”
The Steelers will now return to Pittsburgh and prepare to face the Denver Broncos next Sunday in Denver.
“There’s a lot of efforts to speak to. But largely, we’re just thankful to come into this place and get this victory and move on with our journey.” Said Tomlin.
Notes: Tomlin gave unfortunate news about P Cam Johnson, who was injured in the Fourth Quarter: “Cam Johnston appears to have a serious injury. I’ll have an update for you next time we come together. It’s a shame for him. This guy has been spectacular through team development. He’s an absolute stud, not only in his talents, but his approach to business. My heart goes out to him.”
Please email Ray at [email protected]
Follow him @RP2872_JR on X (Formerly Twitter)
