Monday Aftermath: Offensive Woes, Run D, Big Plays Sink Steelers

Alan Saunders |

Updated: Sep 19, 2022

The Pittsburgh Steelers dropped the ball — literally and figuratively — as Gunner Olszewski’s botched punt return provided the difference for the Steelers in their 17-14 loss to the New England Patriots. Let’s take a look at the major storylines.

The Steelers offense sputtered and died, with fans chanting for Kenny Pickett. But will a change at quarterback solve what’s wrong with the offense? Alan Saunders doesn’t think so.

Najee Harris had just 49 rushing yards, but says his foot is fine and to quit asking.

Gunner Olszewski set out to prove to his ex they made a mistake. That didn’t happen, with Olszewski making the game-changing mistake the Patriots needed.

Randy Moss is no longer a regular member of the Monday Night Countdown staff, but that didn’t stop Nelson Agholor from lining up Steelers CB Ahkello Witherspoon for the next “You Got Mossed” segment.

The Steelers held New England to just 17 points — 7 came after Olszewski’s turnover — but the run defense was unable to get a big stop at the end of the game when need.

Looking ahead to a short week before facing the Cleveland Browns on Thursday Night Football, the only injury was a foot injury for linebacker Devin Bush.

The Steelers will go into that game still in first place in the AFC North, as all four teams lost, including the Ravens in devastating fashion.

Perhaps new outside linebacker David Anenih will be ready for that one. He was scratched after being signed from the Titans practice squad this week.

STEELERS SCHEDULE

The Steelers have a film and recovery day. Head coach Mike Tomlin will speak to the media at noon. — Alan Saunders, Nick Farabaugh