4 Not-So-Good, 2 Good Things From Steelers Loss to Patriots

The Pittsburgh Steelers went into Foxborough and laid an egg. New England’s offense wasn’t great, but the Steelers’ offense was leaps and bounds worse. Pittsburgh is now 1-1 and will have to face two consecutive division opponents.

Read more Trinidad Chambliss Has Ole Miss As True Title Contenders After LSU Win

The story of the game was the Steelers’ offense and its inability to get anything going. Through two games, the unit hasn’t provided much reason for optimism. That will be the theme of the day and the week.

Here are some of the good, and a lot of the not-so-good, things from the Steelers’ 20-3 loss to the Patriots.

Not-So-Good: Offensive Line

The offensive line didn’t take a step forward in any facet. This was a truly putrid performance, and the Steelers should be very, very concerned about this unit. The offensive line showed little semblance of communication or execution.

Many questions now surround this offensive line.

Good: Defense

The defense allowed 13 points. In the NFL, that is incredible. Sure, there were some coverage hiccups and a long touchdown run allowed, but the defense was not the reason the Steelers lost.

This unit is pulling its weight and then some. Frankly, this offense should be giving its game checks to the defense.

Not-So-Good: DK Metcalf

Metcalf is one of the highest-paid wide receivers in the NFL after the Steelers gave him a new deal following the trade that brought him to Pittsburgh. He is not playing like one in his second year with the team.

Metcalf can’t seem to get out of his own way, and he will have to find a way to turn things around. Otherwise, he may not be on the roster next offseason.

Read more John Schneider Delivers Positive Sam Darnold Update Ahead of Week 2

Good: Germie Bernard

Other than a drop that led to an interception in garbage time, Bernard had a nice game. If anything, he proved he should receive more snaps than he has through the first two weeks.

Bernard blocked well, caught four passes and created separation at times. He was a small bright spot on an otherwise poor day.

Not-So-Good: Aaron Rodgers

Eventually, Rodgers will need to realize he isn’t 28 anymore. He can’t extend plays like he once did. However, he also looked lost — very lost.

You can’t pin too much on him because the offensive line was so terrible. However, he was not on his A-game Sunday afternoon.

Not-So-Good: Mike McCarthy

It’s Year 1 of this regime, but this is not what McCarthy was brought to Pittsburgh to do. He was hired specifically to make this offense look competent. So far, it has been anything but that. Call it a talent issue, call it whatever you want — there’s no excuse.

McCarthy’s offenses have scored minimally. The homecoming honeymoon is well over. This fan base wanted change for the better, and so far, it isn’t being delivered.

Read more Blue Jays Announce Vladimir Guerrero Jr. News After Leaving Rangers Game

Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved

This story was originally published September 20, 2026 at 4:10 PM.