NFL Week 1: What did we learn from Sunday’s slate of games?

Highlights from NFL Week 1 action caused fans to grow more anxious for the rest of the NFL season. Multiple overtime finishes, explosive receptions, and missed field goals added excitement to Sunday’s slate of games. With an intense Monday night matchup pending, what did we learn on the first day of football?

Opening Sunday served its share of exciting moments – causing fans to not be able to leave their seats throughout the day. Scoring remained moderate and most games remained close. Wild finishes to multiple games early in the season sent spectators in a frenzy. Experiencing these performances could cause an addiction. Expecting great football isn’t a crime, but Sunday’s games provided enough for viewers to chew on until the following week.

NFL Week 1 Recap: Pittsburgh Steelers Defense is the real deal

Brian Callahan’s offense received a boost in confidence after their magical playoff ride last season. Cincinnati’s scoring success was the result of a lethal quarterback and receiver duo. A new season presented Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase a chance to build on their legacy. Winning against their divisional rivals would be a great way to remind the league of their dominance.

Minkah Fitzpatrick had different plans for Burrow’s first time back on the gridiron. An interception on the first play from scrimmage resulted in Pittsburgh’s first score of the season. Turnovers continued to haunt Cincinnati’s franchise quarterback. T.J Watt, Cameron Sutton, and Ahkello Witherspoon contributed to the Steelers’ interception total.

If Burrow was not throwing an interception, he was on the ground. Relentless pursuits from Alex Highsmith and Cameron Heyward dismantled Cincinnati’s pocket. Highsmith’s forced fumbled increased Pittsburgh’s takeaway total to five – sending a statement to offenses across the league. Unfortunately, it appears they’ve lost their star Watt to a season-ending pectoral injury.