The Patriots got their first victory of the season, 20-3 over the Steelers, on Sunday. Breaking down five key plays in the game through video and written analysis, including:
• Perfect blocking on TreVeyon Henderson's touchdown
• The Steelers' pass protection failing on Christian Elliss' strip sack
• Both deep passes from Drake Maye to Romeo Doubs (and the interception)
• Christian Barmore's strip sack that led to Elijah Ponder's game-clinching touchdown return.
1-10-PIT 39 (8:29) (Shotgun) T.Henderson left guard for 39 yards, TOUCHDOWN.
When a running back scores a virtually untouched 39-yard touchdown between the tackles, it means the blocking was perfect on all three levels, and the back was fast enough to take advantage. That's what happened here. Everyone on the field executed at a high level.
Step 1: LG Alijah Vera-Tucker needs to win and turn the DT to the inside. Check. Much better game from him.
Step 2: C Jared Wilson, who is uncovered, needs to seal off the backside linebacker, and RG Mike Onwenu needs to seal the other DT. Double check.
Step 3: RT Morgan Moses needs to pull and take out the frontside linebacker. Check.
Step 4: Mack Hollins (nickel) and DeMario Douglas (backside safety) need to execute their blocks. Double-check. Douglas actually takes out both safeties.
Step 5: Henderson needs to run to daylight and avoid the last defender to finish the run. Check.
Chef's kiss. No notes. Put it on a poster in the o-line and WR rooms!
3-7-NE 22 (8:05) (Shotgun) A.Rodgers sacked at NE 31 for -9 yards (C.Elliss). FUMBLES (C.Elliss) [C.Elliss], touched at NE 30, recovered by PITT.Fautanu at PIT 42.