The Pittsburgh Steelers kicked off their 2024 NFL season with a gritty 18-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on September 8, 2024, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This Week 1 matchup was a showcase of defensive prowess, stellar special teams, and a game plan that leaned heavily on ball control. With starting quarterback Russell Wilson sidelined due to a calf injury, backup Justin Fields stepped up, and kicker Chris Boswell stole the show with a historic performance. In this article, we’ll dive into the player stats, key performances, and what made this game a memorable start to the season for Steelers fans. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just curious about the game, this breakdown is easy to read and packed with insights.
Game Overview: Steelers Dominate with Defense and Kicking
The Steelers’ win was a classic example of Pittsburgh football—tough defense, a strong running game, and clutch special teams play. The final score of 18-10 doesn’t tell the whole story, as the Steelers controlled the game for 35:36 of possession time compared to Atlanta’s 24:24. This time-of-possession advantage allowed Pittsburgh’s defense to stay fresh and keep Atlanta’s offense in check.
The game was defined by:
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Chris Boswell’s six field goals, including three from beyond 50 yards, accounting for all of Pittsburgh’s points.
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Justin Fields’ efficient performance as the emergency starter, managing the game without turnovers.
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A dominant Steelers defense that forced three turnovers and shut out Atlanta in the second half.
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A conservative yet effective offensive strategy that leaned on the running game to control the clock.
Let’s break down the key player stats and performances that shaped this exciting season opener.
Team Steelers vs Atlanta Falcons Match Player Stats: A Tale of Control and Efficiency
Before diving into individual performances, here’s a quick look at the team stats that set the tone for the game:
|
Stat |
Pittsburgh Steelers |
Atlanta Falcons |
|---|---|---|
|
Total Yards |
270 | 226 |
|
First Downs |
16 | 15 |
|
Turnovers |
0 | 3 |
|
Time of Possession |
35:36 | 24:24 |
|
Third Down Conv. |
5/7 (71.4%) | 2/9 (22.2%) |
|
Fourth Down Conv. |
0/1 (0.0%) | 1/1 (100%) |
|
Penalties |
9 (60 yards) |
5 (34 yards) |
|
Total Plays |
66 | 50 |
|
Yards per Play |
4.1 | 4.5 |
The Steelers’ ability to convert 71.4% of their third downs and dominate possession time was crucial. Atlanta struggled to sustain drives, especially in the second half, where they failed to convert a single third down. Pittsburgh’s defense forced two interceptions and a fumble, which the offense and special teams turned into nine points.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Key Player Stats
Justin Fields (QB) – Stepping Up in Wilson’s Absence
With Russell Wilson ruled out due to a calf injury, Justin Fields, a Georgia native, got the start in his home state. Fields delivered a solid, mistake-free performance, completing 17 of 23 passes for 156 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions, earning a 91.9 passer rating. His mobility was a game-changer, as he rushed 14 times for 57 yards, extending drives with his legs. Fields’ ability to avoid turnovers and manage the game was critical, especially on third downs, where his scrambling kept the chains moving.
Fields’ standout moment came in the final seconds of the first half. After Atlanta took a 10-6 lead, Fields connected with George Pickens for a 33-yard gain, setting up Boswell’s third field goal to close the gap to 10-9 at halftime. While Fields didn’t light up the stat sheet, his dual-threat presence and poise under pressure were exactly what the Steelers needed.
Chris Boswell (K) – The Game’s MVP
Chris Boswell was the undisputed star of the game, going a perfect 6-for-6 on field goal attempts, including three from beyond 50 yards (57, 51, and 56 yards). His 25-, 40-, and 44-yard field goals rounded out a historic performance, tying a Steelers franchise record for most field goals in a game. Boswell’s 18 points accounted for all of Pittsburgh’s scoring, and he even stepped in to punt a 43-yard kick after punter Cameron Johnston was injured late in the game.
Boswell’s performance was one for the history books. He became only the second kicker in NFL history to go 6-for-6 on field goals in a season opener, joining John Carney (1993). His long-range accuracy and clutch kicking under pressure were pivotal in securing the win.
Najee Harris (RB) – Grinding Out Yards
Najee Harris led the Steelers’ rushing attack with 20 carries for 70 yards, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. While not explosive, Harris’ physical running style helped control the clock, especially on Pittsburgh’s long drives (10, 10, and 13 plays). His ability to churn out tough yards set the tone for the Steelers’ ground-and-pound approach, which saw them run the ball 41 times—the most in a Week 1 game since 2007.
George Pickens (WR) – Big Plays Downfield
George Pickens was Fields’ top target, hauling in 6 receptions for 85 yards, including a 40-yard catch that set up Boswell’s fifth field goal. Pickens reached a top speed of 21.54 miles per hour on one of his routes, showcasing his elite athleticism. His 33-yard grab late in the first half was a momentum-shifter, proving he’s a reliable big-play threat for Pittsburgh’s offense.
T.J. Watt (OLB) – Defensive Dominance
T.J. Watt was a force on defense, recording 4 tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, and a fumble recovery. He nearly had a strip-sack on Falcons QB Kirk Cousins, but the play was negated due to an offside penalty. Watt’s game-clinching sack on Atlanta’s final drive sealed the victory, reminding everyone why he’s one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers.
Donte Jackson (CB) and DeShon Elliott (S) – Turnover Machines
New Steelers additions Donte Jackson and DeShon Elliott made immediate impacts in their debuts. Jackson intercepted Cousins in the fourth quarter, returning it 49 yards to the Atlanta 18, setting up Boswell’s final field goal. Despite dropping a potential pick earlier, Jackson’s clutch play iced the game. Elliott also snagged an interception and added 6 tackles and a pass deflection, providing stout run support. Their picks marked the first time since 1961 that two Steelers debuted with interceptions in a Week 1 game.
Alex Highsmith (OLB) – Pressure from the Edge
Opposite Watt, Alex Highsmith contributed 1.5 sacks and consistently pressured Cousins, forcing him to step up into collapsing pockets. Highsmith’s ability to capitalize on single coverage was key to Pittsburgh’s defensive success.
Cameron Heyward (DT) – Unsung Hero
While Cameron Heyward didn’t record a sack, his presence was felt. He drew double teams, freeing up teammates like Highsmith and Watt to make plays. Heyward’s disruption in the trenches helped limit Atlanta’s rushing attack and pressured Cousins into hurried throws.
Montravius Adams (DT) – A Long-Awaited Sack
Montravius Adams recorded a sack for the first time since 2018, a span of 2,129 days. His takedown of Cousins was a highlight for the defensive tackle, who added valuable depth to Pittsburgh’s front.
Atlanta Falcons: Key Player Stats
Kirk Cousins (QB) – A Rough Debut
Kirk Cousins, making his Falcons debut, struggled against Pittsburgh’s relentless defense. He completed 16 of 26 passes for 155 yards, with 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions, resulting in a 59.0 passer rating. Cousins was sacked twice, including Watt’s game-ender, and threw picks to Elliott and Jackson. His lone highlight was a 12-yard touchdown pass to Kyle Pitts late in the first half, giving Atlanta a brief 10-6 lead. However, the Steelers’ pressure and Atlanta’s lack of preseason reps for Cousins led to a disjointed performance.
Bijan Robinson (RB) – A Solid but Contained Effort
Bijan Robinson was Atlanta’s most effective offensive weapon, totaling 111 yards from scrimmage (68 rushing on 18 carries, 43 receiving on 5 catches). However, Pittsburgh’s defense held him under 4 yards per carry, limiting his explosiveness. Robinson’s 10-yard rush on a fourth-down conversion in the third quarter kept a drive alive, but he couldn’t break free for big gains.
Ray-Ray McCloud III (WR) – A Familiar Face
Former Steeler Ray-Ray McCloud III led Atlanta’s receivers with 4 catches for 52 yards, including a 34-yard grab that set up a late, futile rally attempt. McCloud was a bright spot in an otherwise quiet day for Atlanta’s passing game.
Kyle Pitts (TE) and Drake London (WR) – Limited Impact
Kyle Pitts and Drake London, expected to be Atlanta’s top receiving threats, were held in check. Pitts caught 3 passes for 26 yards, including the 12-yard touchdown, while London had 2 receptions for 32 yards. Pittsburgh’s secondary, led by Joey Porter Jr., did an excellent job neutralizing Atlanta’s big-play targets.
Grady Jarrett (DT) – Defensive Standout
Grady Jarrett was a force for Atlanta’s defense, recording 1.5 sacks and 3 tackles for loss. His interior pressure disrupted Pittsburgh’s offense, particularly in the first half, but the Falcons’ defense couldn’t get off the field enough to swing the game.
Mike Hughes (CB) – Tackling Machine
Mike Hughes led Atlanta with 7 tackles, including 3 for loss, showing his ability to stop the run and limit Pittsburgh’s short passing game. Despite his efforts, the Falcons couldn’t capitalize on their defensive stops.
Matthew Judon (OLB) – Adding Pressure
Matthew Judon, a new addition to Atlanta’s defense, contributed 1.5 sacks alongside Jarrett. His presence helped keep Pittsburgh’s offense in check, but the Steelers’ ball-control strategy limited Atlanta’s opportunities to capitalize.
Steelers vs Atlanta Falcons Match Player Stats Key Moments and Turning Points
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Boswell’s Long-Range Kicking: Boswell’s 57-, 51-, and 56-yard field goals in the first three quarters kept Pittsburgh in the game, overcoming a conservative offense that struggled in the red zone.
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Fields’ Late First-Half Drive: After Atlanta’s touchdown gave them a 10-6 lead, Fields’ 33-yard pass to Pickens set up a 44-yard field goal by Boswell, cutting the deficit to 10-9 at halftime.
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Defensive Turnovers: Elliott’s interception in the first quarter and Jackson’s pick in the fourth quarter swung momentum, with the latter setting up the game-sealing field goal.
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Watt’s Game-Clinching Sack: On Atlanta’s final drive, Watt’s sack on Cousins ended any hope of a comeback, securing the 18-10 win.
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Failed Fourth-Down Stop: Fields was stopped on a fourth-and-inches sneak at the Atlanta 6, but the drive consumed over 7 minutes, leaving Atlanta with little time to mount a comeback.
Why the Steelers Won
The Steelers’ victory boiled down to three factors:
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Ball Control: Pittsburgh’s 41 rushing attempts and 35:36 time of possession wore down Atlanta’s defense and limited their offensive opportunities.
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Turnover Battle: The Steelers forced three turnovers (two interceptions, one fumble) while committing none, a critical edge in a low-scoring game.
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Boswell’s Perfection: His six field goals, including three from long range, were the difference in a game where neither team scored a touchdown after the first half.
Historical Context: Steelers’ Dominance Over Falcons
The Steelers improved their all-time record against the Falcons to 16-2-1, continuing their historical dominance. This win marked their fourth straight victory over Atlanta and their first regular-season win without a touchdown since 2008. Under Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh is 4-0 against the Falcons, and this game showcased why they’ve been a tough matchup for Atlanta.
What’s Next for Steelers vs Atlanta Falcons Match Player Stats Both Teams?
For the Steelers, the win sets a positive tone for the 2024 season. Fields proved he can manage games effectively, and the defense looks as formidable as ever. However, red zone efficiency remains a concern, as all 18 points came from field goals. Pittsburgh will look to build on this performance as they face tougher AFC North opponents.
For the Falcons, the loss highlighted areas for improvement. Cousins’ lack of preseason reps likely contributed to his struggles, and the offense needs to get Pitts and London more involved. Atlanta’s defense showed promise, but they’ll need to find ways to get off the field against ball-control teams.
Conclusion: A Classic Steelers Win
The Steelers vs Atlanta Falcons Match Player Stats was a defensive slugfest, with Chris Boswell’s leg and Pittsburgh’s opportunistic defense stealing the show. Justin Fields’ steady performance and the team’s commitment to the run game set the stage for a hard-fought victory. For Atlanta, Bijan Robinson and Grady Jarrett provided bright spots, but turnovers and an inability to sustain drives proved costly. This game was a reminder that football is often won in the trenches and on special teams, and the Steelers executed their game plan to perfection.