The Pittsburgh Steelers didn't disappoint Steeler Nation in their Week 3 home opener against Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers. Once the offense found its groove, Justin Fields led the Steelers to a 20-10 win over Los Angeles which kept the AFC North squad at first place with a 3-0 record. It was expected to be a defensive showdown between the two franchises, as both have proven to be two of the league's best so far in 2024. TJ Watt and the defense won the battle and proved that they have the better unit, holding the Chargers offense to no second half points.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' second year outside linebacker Nick Herbig wrecking the Chargers final few drives of Week 3 2024.
Pittsburgh's defense got off to a rocky start, as it allowed Justin Herbert to connect with Quentin Johnston for a 27-yard touchdown pass with just under three minutes to go in the first quarter. The Steelers' offense responded quickly and the game was tied up shortly afterwards, thanks to a Fields rushing touchdown.
The Steelers knew the Chargers' goal was to win by running the ball with JK Dobbins, who started off as the leading rusher in the NFL after two weeks. Watt and the defense only allowed Dobbins to rush for 44 yards on 15 carries. Herbert, who tried playing through a high ankle sprain, was forced to make some throws, which is when the defensive line wrecked the game.
The defense collected five sacks, thanks to Watt, Cameron Heyward, Elandon Roberts, and Nick Herbig (who had two). Herbig, who's in his second season, had another big game. Along with his two sacks, Herbig also had a forced fumble, which the Chargers recovered.
Herbig looked extremely promising as a rookie last season, and it's been no secret that he's been working with Watt as much as possible. Herbig's hard work is paying off, and Watt doesn't find it surprising. After applauding Herbig for his self confidence, Watt, with a laugh, told reporters he's had enough answering questions about his teammate.
"That kid has supreme confidence in himself," Watt told reporters after the win. "You can't tell him anything and I respect the heck out of it. He's going to do everything that he possibly can to perform. He's going to ask every question, he's going to turn over every stone, and just bust his tail. I'm glad that he had the day that he did today."
Watt and Herbig, along with Alex Highsmith, have all been exceptional as Pittsburgh's edge rushers. The defense held the Chargers offense to just 168 total yards in Pittsburgh's win on Sunday. Watt politely told the media that he was done lauding his counterpart in Herbig.
"I'm sick of talking about Herb, let's just stop all of this right now, jeez Louise."
While Highsmith's injury is concerning, there's no doubt that Herbig has the motor and abilities to be a star in the NFL. Pittsburgh may have the best trio of edge rushers in the league.
Aaron Anastasia / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' star edge rusher TJ Watt during Week 3 of 2024 against the Chargers.
Watt and Herbig's next challenge will come on the road next week in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts, who got their first win of the season on Sunday. Their focus will be on containing running back Jonathan Taylor, one of the league's most dangerous backs.
Steelers Get Concerning News On Highsmith After Week 3 Victory
Herbig's snap count for Sunday went up after Highsmith went down with an unfortunate groin injury at the end of the second quarter. Highsmith's injury would keep him out of the game, which led to Herbig's two sacks and forced fumble later on. The Steelers don't have a significant update on the edge rusher's status, which will be something to monitor during the week.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' OLB Alex Highsmith during Week 3 of 2024 in Pittsburgh.
After an exciting home opener victory, the Steelers are now 3-0 for the first time since 2020. This is a team that's got a chip on their shoulder and is moving in the right direction. While the defense was expected to be dominant, the offense certainly is improving and taking the right steps. After Week 3 concludes, Pittsburgh will be at least two games ahead of every divisional rival. What are your thoughts on Herbig's performance? What about the rest of the defense? Let us know in the comments.
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