The Pittsburgh Steelers have one of the most famous and beloved traditions during training camp, Friday Night Lights. It's just as it would be for any typical high school team playing on Friday evening for comparison. The Steelers travel to nearby Latrobe Memorial Stadium and run some practices and drills under the lights for all fans to see.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers play under the Friday Night Lights in August 2017.
No one is more excited for this year's Friday Night Lights game than Steelers quarterback, Mitch Trubisky. Last year's event was canceled due to rain, so fans and players alike are really looking forward to this year. Trubisky went on to explain that he loves it, saying it brings him back to his days as a high school quarterback.
"I know it always takes me back. It's something that means a lot to me. I think it'll be fun for us, fun for the fans."
Trubisky had a stellar career as a high school quarterback, so being able to reminisce definitely lifts his mood and the team's mood as a whole. Trubisky finished in the top 10 all-time for HS quarterbacks in Ohio, passing for a total of 9,126 yards and 92 touchdowns. He also rushed for 1,559 yards and 33 touchdowns. Trubisky averaged 285.5 passing yards per game and had a career QBR of 105.6.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers backup quarterback, Mitch Trubisky (10) warms up before a home game at then-Heinz Field back in 2022.
A Fan Favorite
Almost every Steelers fan has fallen in love with this annual treat, and this year is no different. Fans can buy tickets to the event for just $5, and once you're in, there's a multitude of vendors and events to keep you entertained before the game at Latrobe Fest, along with some old-fashioned Steelers football.
Steelers fans will be greeted with food, music, and outdoor games for the whole family to enjoy. You can expect everything from hot dogs to cornhole, to Steelers legends signing autographs before practice takes place. And of course, there will be a beautiful fireworks show after practice is over. The Steelers' Friday Night Lights is truly a beloved tradition for this beloved team.
The players couldn't be more excited for this day, either. No morning meetings, no grueling pre-practice workouts, just good fun. Trubisky went on to mention how relaxing and exciting this day is for both him and his fellow players.
"We get to sleep in tomorrow, which will be nice. No morning meetings, so you have a little bit of a longer day, and it's fun going out and playing under the lights."
It's safe to say it won't just be Trubisky feeling the love and nostalgia of playing high school football. Rookie cornerback Joey Porter Jr. grew up playing football in Pittsburgh, and it is sure to be somewhat of a homecoming for him, now on Pittsburgh's NFL team.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
When it comes to fanbases, none are more passionate than the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Steelers Offense Looking to Improve
In the past couple of days at training camp, the Steelers offense has been dominated by the defense. Apart from a few highlight-reel catches from George Pickens and continued solid play from Kenny Pickett and Trubisky, the defense has been in control. Pickett has even let up a handful of interceptions in the past two days.
Pickett and the offense will look to get the horse back on track come Friday night, hoping some extra motivation will come from the fun atmosphere and the cheering fans. Pickens looks to continue his hopeful breakout campaign through training camp, while Pickett will want to continue to prove that he is indeed that franchise quarterback in Pittsburgh. However, the defense does not look like it will let up, with all aspects of it tightening up, specifically the linebackers and secondary. Regardless of offensive or defensive performance, this year's Friday Night Lights will be one to remember.
Are you excited about Friday Night Lights this year? Who are you looking forward to seeing most? Let us know down in the comments!
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