Steelers win over Commanders leaves fewer questions than answers about 2024 season
The Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off a nail-biting 28-27 win over the Washington Commanders in Week 10, with Russell Wilson’s last-minute connection to new wide receiver Mike Williams sealing the game.
Williams, who was traded from the New York Jets just days before, caught a deep sideline pass in the end zone with only 2:27 remaining on the clock, giving the Steelers the lead. This touchdown marked Williams’ first of the season and his debut score for Pittsburgh, highlighting his immediate impact on the team. Williams’ contribution was one of several that have silenced many doubters of the Steelers’ ability to win games and be a threat in the AFC this season. Now, many of the offseason’s critics are now proponents of Pittsburgh’s stout defense and growing offense.
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The victory did not come easily for Pittsburgh, as they faced multiple setbacks throughout the game, including a dropped pass on a fake punt and a goal-line fumble. Despite these obstacles, Wilson’s confidence and skill under pressure allowed Pittsburgh to outlast Washington. On Washington’s final drive, the Commanders came close to a comeback, but Jayden Daniels’ fourth-and-9 pass to Zach Ertz was stopped just short, allowing the Steelers to run out the clock and secure their 7-2 record.
Steelers could’ve won by more?
The win also showed that the Steelers could’ve sustained a larger victory despite a one-point margin. The fake punt essentially gave Washington a short field and an easy range to score seven points for one of the NFL’s top offenses. However, that offense was largely shutout in the second half, showcasing Pittsburgh’s tough defense.
The Jaylen Warren fumble is another swing in points, as the Steelers were knocking on the doorstep of scoring another touchdown, but fell just short due to the turnover – which felt more like an error by the officials than by the player.
In total, the point swing could’ve been an additional 14 points had the fake punt succeeded (even without ending the drive in a score) and had Warren not fumbled. What might the narrative have been on Monday morning if the Steelers defeated the 7-2 Commanders by a score of, say, 35-20?
Receiver woes over?
Mike Williams’ game-sealing touchdown catch may have answered the prayers of Steelers fans who were continually looking for another threat to play opposite of star receiver George Pickens. It was an open secret that the Steelers were sniffing around for another playmaker, previously courting disgruntled San Francisco 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk before he re-signed with his home club.
General Manager Omar Khan had reportedly worked out a deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars to acquire WR Christian Kirk ahead of the trade deadline, but Kirk would break his collarbone in his last game played and wound up on injured reserve before the transaction materialized.
Williams, who had visited the Steelers during the free agency period but signed with the New York Jets instead, was one of the last viable options who appeared to be the proper fit for what the Steelers and Arthur Smith’s offense is looking to do. We will see how much more he gets involved since he was only added to the roster days before the Commanders game and therefore played sparingly due to being new to the Steelers.
Russell Wilson and the offense
While he only threw for 195 yards in the game, Russell Wilson attacked the Commanders defense for three passing touchdowns – including the aforementioned game winner to Mike Williams.
The milestone marks the first time a Steelers quarterback has thrown three or more touchdown passes in a game since the 2021 season. (Ben Roethlisberger threw three touchdown passes in a 36-28 loss against the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football back on December 9, 2021.)
Though it was his first time as a Steeler, Wilson is no stranger to multiple touchdown games. Wilson has thrown for three or more touchdowns in 47 of his 191 games played as a pro, with another 58 two-touchdown games to add to the tally, meaning he’s likely to throw for multiple scores consistently in half of the games he appears.
That too is a big answer to the Steelers previous quarterback problems, as Mitchell Trubisky never had a game with more than a single touchdown pass, Mason Rudolph never threw for three in 21 appearances and previous starter Kenny Pickett had one lone game (Week 3, 2023, Las Vegas Raiders) in which he threw more than a single touchdown pass in 25 appearances.
Highsmith’s injury clouds victory
The Steelers’ victory, however, came at a price this weekend, as linebacker Alex Highsmith suffered an ankle injury in the fourth quarter. Highsmith, who is now hobbling around the locker room in a walking boot, appears to be out for 2-3 games per Steelers beat reporter Gerry Dulac.
Steelers OLB Alex Highsmith having MRI today to determine extent of his ankle injury. Not known how long he will be out, tho probably at least a couple games. But Nick Herbig is expected back Sunday
— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) November 11, 2024
This setback adds to a challenging season for Highsmith, who previously missed games due to a groin issue. Initial reports indicate that Highsmith avoided a broken ankle, but his injury may still sideline him for several weeks, though the Steelers remain hopeful for a quick recovery.
In the meantime, the Steelers’ linebacker lineup may see changes. Nick Herbig, who has been absent due to a hamstring injury, is expected to return next week and may fill Highsmith’s role. Additionally, the recent addition of veteran linebacker Preston Smith offers some relief, as he can step in if Highsmith’s recovery extends further. (Smith had a sack in Sunday’s win over Washington.)
Looking forward, the Steelers are set to face the Baltimore Ravens next week with momentum on their side despite recent injuries. Much like strategic plays in $5 deposit casino sites that offer high impact with minimal risk, Pittsburgh’s roster adjustments showcase a focus on resilience and adaptability. Wilson’s strong leadership and the new offensive boost from Williams have given the team confidence, while the defensive adjustments should help them stay competitive. Fans remain optimistic, hoping Highsmith’s absence won’t disrupt Pittsburgh’s continued push for the playoffs.
