Derrick’s Dudes & Duds: Pickens, Specialists Show Up vs. Browns (+)

The Pittsburgh Steelers defense powered them to a thrilling come from behind victory against the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football. It’s tough to use the phrase “must-win” in September but this was one that they desperately needed as an 0-2 home start would’ve been tough to overcome in the long run. The defense wasn’t quite perfect, but they were certainly impactful and stood tall when it mattered most. The offense was unfortunately more of the same, frustrating to watch over the course of 60 minutes.

Let’s break down some dudes and duds from the Steelers’ first win of the season.

Dude: Alex Highsmith

This summer, general manager Omar Khan made the call to give Alex Highsmith a huge contract extension and he was rewarded with a monstrous performance from the fourth-year star in primetime. He began the game with a pick-six off Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson. After that, he made plays in the backfield, pressuring Watson and drew at least one holding penalty on Browns left tackle Jedric Wills. But he saved his best for last. Late in the fourth quarter, Highsmith exploded off the line of scrimmage, notching a strip sack, which was immediately picked up by his counterpart, T.J. Watt, for a scoop and score.

Dude: T.J. Watt

It’s only fitting