After snapping a 4-game losing streak last weekend, the Green Bay Packers traveled to the steel city to take on the Steelers in Week 10. The Packers haven’t won a game in Pittsburgh since the 1970 season. Green Bay entered the matchup relatively healthy, being without just two starters on defense- LB Quay Walker and CB Jaire Alexander. Green Bay was competitive, and there were opportunities for them to win the game, but with a pair of 4th quarter turnovers from Jordan Love the Packers fall short to the Steelers.
The Green Bay run defense reverted back to their struggling ways, allowing the Steelers rushing attack to produce 205 total yards. Pittsburgh’s offense went into the game averaging a mere 3.7 yards per rush. Yesterday against the Packers, the Steelers averaged just under 6 yards per carry. The Packers inability to stop the run kept Pittsburgh ahead of the sticks and in control. Also, Pittsburgh was 2 for 3 scoring touchdowns in the red zone, while the Packers were an abysmal 1 for 5, having to settle for two field goals, with a pair of interceptions by Jordan Love. The Packers continued to commit penalties in key situations, especially early on. Pass interference on third down extended the Steelers opening drive. A defensive hold turned third-and-10 into a first down and illegal contact negated a sack. Green Bay gave up a lead in the second-half and lost the game 23-19 on Sunday in Acrisure Stadium (formerly known as Heinz Field). The Packers are now 3-6, and have lost four games this season when having a lead at some point in the 3rd or 4th quarter.
Against one of the most productive front-sevens in the NFL, the Packers offensive line was able to put together another strong performance. RT Zach Tom had a solid game, holding his own against TJ Watt. For most of the game, Jordan Love had the time he needed in the pocket. Love completed 21 of 40 passes for 289 yards and 2 TD’s, with a passer rating of 71.8. Despite a poor 4th quarter, Love found big plays down the field. Yes, it’s another loss, but from a process standpoint, the Packers should be encouraged by what they saw from Jordan Love yesterday. He was able to connect with rookie pass-catchers Luke Musgrave, Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks for completions of 30 or more yards. Reed and Romeo Doubs both caught touchdown passes on near perfect throws. Outside of a 40-yard run by AJ Dillon, the run game struggled to get going throughout the afternoon. However, the Packers were effective enough to generate some positive plays. 3 or 4 yard gains is all it took to feel the full effects of the run game. Green Bay stuck with it throughout the day, despite not having many huge chunk plays.
The Packers return to Lambeau next week to play the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, November 19th.
