The Steelers defense smothered the Buccaneers , as expected, all game long. But an unexpected boost from Charlie Batch‘s arm went a long way in helping the Steelers rout Tampa Bay 38-13 this afternoon.
Homestead Charlie tossed three TDs, including a pair of long ones to Mike Wallace and the Steelers had a downfield passing game for the first time all season. The Steelers running game showed up in a big way too. Rashard Mendenhall broke off a long run on seemingly every drive and Isaac Redman made a few nice plays out of the backfield as well. The Steelers averages 6.5 yards a carry. Mind-blowing.
On the other side of the ball, the Steelers defense didn’t allow any TDs until LaGarrette Blount punched in a 4th down run with under two minutes to go against the Steelers backups. They’ve only allowed 2 TDs through the first three games of the season. Brett Keisel canceled out the lone Bucs touchdown by intercepting a tipped pass and taking it 79 yards to the house. The defense pressured Josh Freeman all game and finished with 4 sacks.
This was a very impressive performance. The Bucs didn’t belong on the same field as the Steelers today. And the Steelers are doing this with their 4th string QB. Once Ben Roethlisberger returns, this looks like it could be the best team in football.
Much more coming from this game later.
