ATLANTA — The Steelers gave the Falcons a dose of their own medicine. Facing the NFL’s second-ranked rushing offense, it was the Steelers who powered their way to a 19-16 victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The Steelers out-rushed the Falcons, 155-146. They have averaged 158 rushing yards per game in their past five games.
The Steelers closed the game out in impressive fashion. Clinging to a 19-16 lead with 5:27 on the clock, the Steelers offense controlled the ball until the final minute and then punter Pressley Harvin III pinned the Falcons on their own 2 with 42 seconds on the clock.
Minkah Fitzpatrick intercepted Marcus Mariota’s pass on the next play to seal the victory.
The Steelers controlled the ball for 19:04 in the first half and had a 16-6 lead at halftime. Connor Heyward caught his first NFL touchdown and Matthew Wright booted three field goals, while all of Atlanta’s points came courtesy of two Younghoe Koo field goals.
The Steelers have won three of their past four.
Player of the game: Najee Harris did not practice until Friday because of an abdominal injury, but he had one of his best games of the season. Harris rushed for 86 yards on 17 carries.
Trending up: After missing two field goals in his first game with the Steelers this season, Matthew Wright has made his past 10 attempts. He was 4 for 4 against the Falcons. Chris Boswell is eligible to come off IR this week.
Trending down: Punt returner Steven Sims muffed one punt and decided to fait catch another when no one was within 10 yards of him. The Steelers need to find a dependable returner.
Next up: The Steelers return home to face the Ravens on Sunday afternoon at Acrisure Stadium. The Steelers have won four consecutive in the series and eight of the past 11.
