In a stunning debut with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Russell Wilson lit up the field with 264 yards and two touchdowns, leading his team to a resounding 37-15 victory over the New York Jets. The star quarterback’s performance marked a record-breaking achievement, as he surpassed Earl Morrell’s 1957 debut passing yards record of 249.
The Steelers, now standing at a solid 5-2 record, showcased their dominance on the field, while the Jets struggled to keep up, falling to a disappointing 2-5. Wilson’s absence for the first six games due to a calf injury had left fans eager for his return, as backup quarterback Justin Fields struggled to fill his shoes, averaging a modest 184.3 passing yards per game.
Returning with a bang, Wilson completed 16 of 29 passes, boasting a stellar 109.0 passer rating and contributing to the Steelers’ impressive total of 409 yards gained. Standout performances from George Pickens, who caught five passes for 111 yards including a crucial 11-yard touchdown, and Van Jefferson, who added a 4-yard touchdown reception, highlighted the team’s offensive prowess.
Najee Harris sealed the victory with a 10-yard touchdown run in the final moments of the game, capping off his impressive 102-yard rushing performance on 21 carries. The Steelers’ offensive explosion resulted in their highest points total of the season, leaving fans ecstatic with the team’s performance.
Despite a promising start for the Jets, who led 15-6 in the first half, they faltered in the latter stages of the game, with their offense failing to score again. Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers faced a tough challenge against the Steelers’ defense, throwing two crucial interceptions to cornerback Beanie Bishop, both of which were converted into touchdowns by the Steelers.
Rodgers finished the game with 276 yards on 24-of-39 passing, managing to salvage some success with a touchdown but ultimately falling short against the Steelers’ strong defensive line. The game proved to be a showcase of Wilson’s undeniable talent and the Steelers’ formidable presence on the field, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.