By Zack Rosenblatt, Mike DeFabo, and Lauren Merola
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson showcased an impressive performance on Sunday against the New York Jets at Acrisure Stadium, helped by standout wide receiver George Pickens.
Pickens caught five passes for 111 yards and a touchdown, marking his second 100+ yard game this season. Last year, Pickens recorded five such games, highlighted by a 195-yard, two-touchdown effort against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 23, 2023.
In his first start for the Steelers after replacing Justin Fields, Wilson completed 16 of 29 passes for 264 yards and accounted for two touchdowns—one passing and one rushing. He helped the Steelers score 31 unanswered points, resulting in a dominant 37-15 victory.
Wilson had been initially named the starter after a preseason competition, but an injury sidelined him, giving Fields the starting role until this game. With this win, the Steelers improved to a 5-2 record, while the Jets dropped to 2-5. This victory also marked Mike Tomlin’s 178th win as the head coach of the Steelers.
George Pickens snatched it. pic.twitter.com/3hoW84kXUC
— NFL (@NFL) October 21, 2024
With the win, Pittsburgh improves to 5-2 as New York drops to 2-5. It was Tomlin’s 178th victory at the helm of the organization.
Russell Wilson Passes First Test
When Tomlin chose to start Wilson over Fields, many doubted the decision, especially since the team held a solid 4-2 record. After a shaky start, Wilson found his rhythm, particularly with Pickens, and silenced any lingering doubts.
Wilson Unlocks Pickens’ Potential
Wilson’s debut allowed him to spread the ball to multiple targets, with Pickens benefiting the most. Their chemistry was evident, and Pickens had a season-best game in terms of receiving yards, also catching his first touchdown of the season.
The Jets’ Struggles Continue
The Jets appeared to have the upper hand early in the game with a 15-6 lead, but costly interceptions from Aaron Rodgers turned the game in favor of the Steelers. The turnovers, missed opportunities, and penalties were too much for the Jets to overcome, leaving them at 2-5 and facing an uphill battle for the playoffs.
Defensive Plays Seal the Game
Undrafted rookie Beanie Bishop made a pivotal interception of Rodgers late in the first half, setting up a touchdown drive for the Steelers. Another interception in the third quarter by Bishop, returned to the 1-yard line, set up a Wilson rushing touchdown that gave Pittsburgh a commanding lead.
(Photo: Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
