How the Jaguars Beat the Steelers in Pittsburgh Fashion
This week the Jacksonville Jaguars (6-2) went to Pittsburgh to battle against the Steelers (4-3) -- a storied NFL franchise known for prolific run games, punishing defenses, and as one of the first to form a rivalry with a budding Jaguars organization back in the late 90s.
Considering that, it is with some irony that the Jaguars secure their second-best start in franchise history in a defensive scrum, 20-10.
Going into the game, the Jaguars were down starting safety Andre Cisco and starting cornerback Tyson Campbell on defense. Yet the squad still had a solid game, holding the Pittsburgh Steelers to 10 points despite the Jacksonville offense giving up three turnovers.
Members of the “Duval Devout” will appreciate the pass rush chalking up three total sacks with two for Josh Allen (who now has nine on the year ahead of Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt’s 8.5) and one for Travon Walker (3.5 on the year). The front seven also held the Steelers below their 80 rushing yards allowed per game giving up only 70.
The secondary also made their presence felt despite missing the injured Cisco and Campbell. Safeties Andrew Wingard and Antonio Johnson each recorded an interception of backup-Steelers’ quarterback Mitchell Trubisky who played the second half. Starting quarterback Kenny Pickett was knocked out of the game by Adam Gotsis late in the second quarter. All of the above screams relentless defense that is known to reside in the Steel City . . . just executed by the visitor instead.
As for a relentless run game, the Jags need look no further than Travis Etienne. 24 carries for 79 yards while also hauling in three catches for another 70 with the team’s only touchdown on a 56-yard reception as well as a two-point conversion run.
Mix all that in with four Brandon McManus field goals, including a 50-yarder and a 51-yarder, and you have a gritty win over a team known for perennial success and toughness in the same blue-color style they’ve been famous for over the decades.
As they head into the bye week, the Jags hope to give time for Cisco, Campbell, and offensive lineman Walker Little time to rest and get fresh for the San Francisco 49ers who will head into EverBank Stadium in two Sundays.
