Steelers vs. Patriots Rapid Recap

Nov 3, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

For the first time all season, Tom Brady and the New England Patriots had a full arsenal of offensive weapons, and it showed, as they beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 55-31. The 55 points are the most for a team in a single game this season.

Brady finished the game with four touchdown passes and 432 yards through the air. He wasn’t the only QB in this one with a 400-yard, four TD game. Ben Roethlisberger also reached that plateau in a losing effort, throwing three second half touchdowns to Jerricho Cotchery.

The Patriots offense was completely clicking for most of the game. They racked up over 600 total yards, including 198 on the ground. Stevan Ridley led the way with 115 rushing yards and two touchdowns. It was the fourth straight game with a TD for Ridley, who has been one of the most productive backs over that span. Legarrette Blount and Brandon Bolden also ran effectively, with Blount punching in a late touchdown to close out an already lopsided game.

Brady did most of his early damage with the help of his two now-healthy targets, Rob Gronkowski and Danny Amendola. Both players had their best games of the year, with Gronkowski catching nine passes for 143 yards and a TD. Amendola, who has suffered multiple injuries this season, had 122 yards highlighted by a 34-yard touchdown in the first quarter. Brady also threw two fourth quarter TDs to rookie Aaron Dobson that helped put the game away.

This Patriots offensive showcase came at the expense of a historically bad Steelers D, who allowed the most points and yards in franchise history. After battling back to tie the game at 24 in the third, the Pittsburgh defense fell apart, allowing 28 fourth quarter points.

The Steelers will try to bounce back next week when they host the Buffalo Bills. The Patriots are on a bye in week 10.