7 Keys from Patriots’ 21-17 Win over Steelers

 

The New England Patriots snapped their four-game losing streak with a thrilling 21-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday Night Football. 

The Patriots improved to 3-9 on the season, while the Steelers fell to 7-5 and lost their grip on the AFC North lead. 

Here are seven key takeaways from the game:

Mac Jones shines in the fourth quarter. The rookie quarterback had a rough start, throwing two interceptions in the first half and struggling to move the ball against the Steelers’ defense. 

But he bounced back in the fourth quarter, leading two touchdown drives in the final six minutes to give the Patriots the lead. 

He finished with 18 of 28 for 212 yards and two touchdowns, with a passer rating of 91.4. 

He also showed poise and toughness, taking several hits and scrambling for a crucial first down on the final drive. Jones proved that he can handle pressure and deliver in clutch situations.

Damien Harris runs wild. The Patriots’ running back had a career-high 136 yards on 23 carries, averaging 5.9 yards per rush. 

He also scored the game-winning touchdown on a 4-yard run with 15 seconds left. 

Harris was the focal point of the Patriots’ offense, as they relied on him to control the clock and wear down the Steelers’ defense. 

He broke several tackles and showed great vision and burst. Harris gave the Patriots a much-needed spark and balance on offense.

Patriots’ defense steps up. The Patriots’ defense had one of their best performances of the season, holding the Steelers to 17 points and 267 yards of total offense. 

They also forced three turnovers, including two interceptions by J.C. Jackson and a fumble recovery by Kyle Dugger. 

The Patriots’ defense was aggressive and physical, pressuring Ben Roethlisberger and limiting the Steelers’ running game. 

They also made some key stops in the red zone and on third down. The Patriots’ defense showed that they can still play at a high level and keep the team in the game.

Steelers’ offense stalls. The Steelers’ offense had a disappointing night, failing to capitalize on the Patriots’ mistakes and leaving points on the board. 

They settled for two field goals in the first half, despite having good field position and opportunities to score touchdowns. 

They also went three-and-out on their final two possessions, giving the Patriots a chance to come back. Roethlisberger had a mediocre game, completing 19 of 31 for 189 yards and one touchdown, with two interceptions and a fumble. 

He also took four sacks and looked uncomfortable in the pocket. 

The Steelers’ offense lacked rhythm and consistency, and could not finish the game when they had the lead.

Chase Claypool has a breakout game. The Steelers’ rookie wide receiver was the bright spot for the offense, catching seven passes for 101 yards and a touchdown. 

He also had a 36-yard run on a reverse play. Claypool showed off his speed, size and playmaking ability, as he made several big plays and stretched the field. 

He also had a spectacular catch in the end zone for a touchdown in the third quarter, beating Stephon Gilmore in coverage. 

Claypool was the Steelers’ most dangerous weapon and gave the Patriots’ secondary a lot of trouble.

Patriots’ special teams make a difference. The Patriots’ special teams unit had a solid game, making some key plays that helped the team win. 

Jake Bailey had a great night punting, averaging 49.8 yards per punt and pinning the Steelers inside their own 20-yard line four times. 

Nick Folk made all three of his field goal attempts, including a 51-yarder in the fourth quarter that cut the Steelers’ lead to 17-15. Gunner Olszewski had a 28-yard punt return that set up the Patriots’ first touchdown drive. 

Matthew Slater also recovered an onside kick in the fourth quarter that gave the Patriots a chance to take the lead. The Patriots’ special teams unit was clutch and gave the team a boost.

Patriots show resilience and heart. The Patriots showed a lot of resilience and heart in their comeback win over the Steelers. 

They overcame a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter, their largest comeback of the season. 

They also overcame four turnovers, 10 penalties and several injuries. They never gave up and fought until the end, showing a lot of character and determination. 

They also showed a lot of emotion and excitement, celebrating with their teammates and coaches on the sideline and in the locker room. 

The Patriots showed that they still have pride and passion, and that they can still compete with anyone in the league.

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