The betting line in this week’s game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and San Francisco 49ers was only 2 points. But once the game got started it was clear just how much better the Niners are than the Steelers en route to a 30-7 blowout win. Much of the Steelers roster was underwhelming but a few guys stepped up.
Here are our studs and duds from Pittsburgh in Week One.
Stud - EDGE T.J. Watt
It seems the only Steeler who really came to play was EDGE T.J. Watt. Once again Watt was masterful racking up 3.0 sacks which ties him up with James Harrison as the Steelers carer leader.
Dud - OT Dan Moore Jr.
Dan Moore Jr. won the starting left tackle job but didn’t play like it was a run blocker or pass protector on Sunday.
Stud - Isaiahh Loudermilk
Loudermilk was solid in place of an injured Cam Heyward including a pair of deflected passes.
Dud - P Pressley Harvin III
Another dreadful performance and we don’t understand why Pittsburgh is ok with how Harvin plays.
Stud - LB Elandon Roberts
After not playing much in the preseason, Roberts was solid in run support early before the wheels fell off the entire defense.
Dud - RB Najee Harris
Stud - CB Patrick Peterson
Peterson was the best defensive back on the team Sunday with a pair of passes defended.
Dud - QB Kenny Pickett
It is hard to fault guys like George Pickens, Diontae Johnson and Pat Freiermuth for their bad games when you consider just how poorly Pickett played. He looked lost on many plays and had no understanding of what do when the pressure everyone knew would come got to him.
Stud - WR Calvin Austin III
It was great to see Austin back on the field and while he didn’t make a big play he was rock solid.