Steelers Reach 5-2 Record With 16-10 Win in Paris
Aaron Rodgers admits the team is a work in progress despite topping the AFC North, citing high field goal counts and a need for more touchdown efficiency.
By Jabari Long ·
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers led the Pittsburgh Steelers to a 16-10 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday in Paris, extending the team's winning streak to three games. The result improved Pittsburgh's record to 5-2 and kept them tied for the lead in the AFC North as the season approaches its halfway point.
Despite the win, Rodgers emphasized that the team has not yet reached its potential. He noted that the offense relies too heavily on field goals and commits too many penalties. The Steelers also lack the chunk plays necessary to consistently dominate opponents. Rodgers stated, “We’re a 5-2 team, but we’re not playing as well as we can at this point.”
Defensive performance provided a boost, as the unit held New Orleans to an average of 1.1 yards per carry. That mark represents the lowest single-game average allowed by Pittsburgh since 2015. Linebacker Payton Wilson recorded an interception in the third quarter, ending a scoring threat deep in Steelers territory. The defense also forced three fumbles, though the Saints recovered all three.
Running back Rico Dowdle produced his best statistical game of the season with 86 total offensive yards. Head coach Mike McCarthy indicated that Dowdle's performance allows the team to share the load with starter Jaylen Warren. McCarthy said, “I think any time we can just line up and give you Jaylen and Rico all day, that’s a good day for us.”
The Steelers face several challenges as they prepare for their next game against Cleveland. Their five victories so far all came from one-score games entering the fourth quarter. The quarterbacks defeated include Tyler Shough, Cooper Rush, Jalon Daniels, and Daniel Jones. Rodgers noted that the team must look like a postseason threat on the field, not just in the standings. He added, “It was a gutsy effort. But we’ve got to go back, get healthy, play better.”
Rodgers, who is 42 years old, returned to the NFL with the goal of winning a Super Bowl. He expressed frustration with the travel schedule for international games, noting that the Steelers waited until late Thursday to travel to Paris. The Saints arrived on Monday. Rodgers hopes the league will require earlier arrival times in the future. The game was played despite civil unrest in France.
The offense must improve its efficiency. Long drives that result in field goals drain the clock but require the team to avoid mistakes like sacks and penalties. Wide receiver DK Metcalf is the primary big play threat, while Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson remain on injured reserve. The Steelers host Cleveland next week, aiming for their first complete performance of the season.
