1 week Ago
In a dramatic finish, the Pittsburgh Steelers narrowly defeated the Washington Commanders 28-27 at Northwest Stadium, thanks to a 32-yard touchdown pass from Russell Wilson to wide receiver Mike Williams with just over two minutes left in the game. This was Williams' first catch since joining the Steelers earlier this week, immediately making his presence felt and sealing a victory that keeps Pittsburgh atop the AFC North standings. © Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images The game featured back-and-forth scoring, with both teams trading critical plays.
Washington struck early with a balanced offensive drive, capped by a one-yard rushing touchdown from Austin Ekeler. But Pittsburgh's sixth-ranked defense proved resilient, stalling the Commanders multiple times, including a key sack by Cameron Heyward in the first half. Despite some costly penalties, Pittsburgh’s defense created enough pressure to keep Washington from building momentum.
As Pittsburgh's new additions, including linebacker Preston Smith, aimed to make an impact, it was ultimately Williams who stole the spotlight with his game-winning catch. His arrival, along with Smith’s addition, came at a crucial time as Pittsburgh aims to solidify its postseason aspirations with the depth needed to sustain a run. The Commanders would get one final push with just 2:16 left on the clock and would make it to mid-field but would fail to convert the first down on 4th and 9 turning the ball over on downs to the Steelers.
Russell Wilson and the Steelers' offense would run out the remaining time on the clock and seal the victory following a defensive offsides on fourth and one handing the Commanders their first loss at home on the season. Both teams entered with key inactives: the Steelers were without quarterback Kyle Allen and linebacker Nick Herbig, while Washington missed running back Brian Robinson Jr. and kicker Austin Seibert.
These absences tested each team’s depth, adding to the challenge of this tightly contested game. Related: What Did Preston Smith Say About Joining Steelers? The Steelers now look to continue their winning momentum with playoff hopes on the line as they prepare for a divisional matchup against the Baltimore Ravens next week as both teams will be fighting for the AFC North lead. The Steelers will be tested on both sides of the ball as the Ravens boast one of the league's best-rushing offenses and a stout defense.
Related: Steelers Get Two Players Back From IR Ahead of Matchup with Commanders.
