Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers said the Pittsburgh Steelers are still a work in progress despite a three‑game winning streak. After a hard‑fought 16‑10 win over the New Orleans Saints in Paris, the 42‑year‑old highlighted the need for fewer penalties, more touchdowns and bigger plays.
What the win means
With a 5‑2 record, the Steelers sit atop the AFC North alongside the Cincinnati Bengals as the season reaches its halfway point. Rodgers called the victory “gutsy” but stressed the team must get healthy and play better to become a true postseason threat.
Key performances
Running back Rico Dowdle posted a season‑high 86 yards of total offense, giving the offense a spark and taking pressure off starter Jaylen Warren, who has been the team’s MVP through seven weeks. Coach Mike McCarthy praised the duo, saying any day they can line up both players is a good day for Pittsburgh.
Rodgers also showed his own athleticism, scrambling for a first down on a critical third‑and‑8 late in the fourth quarter. “I looked over as I cleared the pocket and knew I had to probably not be able to slide on that one,” he explained.
Defensive highlights
Linebacker Payton Wilson intercepted a Tyler Shough pass deep in Steelers territory, ending a Saints scoring threat. The defense also forced three fumbles, all of which the Saints recovered, underscoring Pittsburgh’s ability to create turnovers.
Areas needing work
The offense still relies heavily on long, methodical drives that can be vulnerable to penalties and sacks. While the unit can control the clock, it lacks a consistent big‑play threat beyond DK Metcalf. Wide receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson remain on injured reserve, limiting the passing game.
Linebacker Patrick Queen responded to a fan’s criticism about a missed tackle by delivering one of his best games, recording ten tackles and a sack.
Looking ahead
Pittsburgh’s next game is at home against the Cleveland Browns. All five of the Steelers’ victories have come in games decided by one score entering the fourth quarter, and the upcoming matchup will test whether the team can finish strong.
Rodgers also noted the logistical challenges of traveling to Paris on a short week, suggesting the NFL consider earlier arrivals for international games to give teams adequate preparation time.
Injury updates
Safety DeShon Elliott returned from a knee injury, playing 19 snaps. Barring setbacks, his role is expected to increase as the season progresses.
Key statistic
New Orleans recorded just 1.1 yards per carry on Sunday, the lowest single‑game average the Steelers have allowed since 2015.
The Steelers remain a promising contender, but Rodgers and the coaching staff acknowledge that polishing the details will be essential for a deep playoff run.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
