The Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers faced off on Sunday, both showing significant difficulties on the offensive side. The Falcons managed just 2 out of 12 on third downs, accrued 121 yards in penalties or sacks, and suffered two turnovers. One of these was a crucial T.J. Watt interception that resulted in a touchdown, tipping the balance in favor of the Steelers at Acrisure Stadium.
The Steelers’ performance wasn’t much better. They converted only 3 of 13 third downs, lost 67 yards to penalties or sacks, failed two fourth-down attempts, and fumbled once.
Shawn Syed of Sumer Sports highlighted the game’s poor offensive showing. The matchup was ranked 1,069 out of 1,097 games analyzed in Total EPA, placing it in the third percentile.
The Falcons’ struggles were not unexpected given quarterback Cooper Rush’s start, filling in for the injured Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. Despite having talent like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, the team couldn’t manage even an average performance.
On the other hand, it was surprising to see the Steelers struggle. DK Metcalf caught only four passes from more than ten targets, Rico Dowdle averaged under two yards per carry, and Aaron Rodgers completed 24 of 40 passes.
Looking ahead, Steelers fans may not find much comfort as the team travels to play the defending conference champion New England Patriots. Meanwhile, the Falcons will face the Carolina Panthers, who recently allowed 59 points in a game against the Chicago Bears.
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