Carolina Panthers (5-9) – Pittsburgh Steelers (6-8): 16-24
Match between two poorly ranked this Sunday in Charlotte. The Steelers are not eliminated from the playoffs in the AFC, but 13th in the AFC (for 7 places), it is recognized that this is a transition season. Still in concussion protocol, Kenny Pickett is not on the trip and Mitch Trubisky is in charge.
The Panthers can incredibly still dream of the NFC South title, being only 1 game behind the Buccaneers despite a chaotic season that saw the dismissal of head coach Matt Rhule. Carried by their iron defense, the Steelers have generally mastered the match to come out with the victory.
Start on the wheel hats
On paper, both defenses seem superior to the attacks they face. However, from their first drive, the Steelers score through Najee Harris (24 races, 86 yards, 1 TD). The Panthers immediately equalize on a pass from Sam Darnold (14/23, 225 yards, 1 TD) for DJ Moore (5 receptions, 73 yards, 1 TD). The Steelers outbid thanks to runner Jaylen Warren.
4 possessions, 3 touchdowns, we think the match started on high bases. Then nothing. Except for punt lovers, the two teams chained 5 in a row (for a cumulative total of 29 yards .. in 5 possessions). Running games well contained, each defensive squad forces the quarterback (limited) opposite to work on the pass, without success.
Darnold under pressure
In the second half, the Steelers are almost unplayable on the defensive end. On each of the passing plays, Darnold has a Pennsylvania defender in the face after a few split seconds, TJ Watt (1.5 sacks) and Cam Heyward (1.5 sacks) in the role of heroes as often. 4 sacks and 6 QB hits, the ex-Jet did not come out unscathed.
On the side of the Pittsburgh attack, Mitch Trubisky (17/22, 179 yards) is working not to make mistakes. Late in the game, Diontae Johnson (10 receptions, 98 yards) provides a few valuable first attempts to turn the clock: 24-16 Steelers final score.
With this defeat, the Panthers can practically say goodbye to playoff hopes. The Steelers, they will not have learned much about their team. Perhaps the biggest challenge is whether Mike Tomlin will manage to keep his streak of seasons with a balanced record (at worst) intact.
