In the Steelers' preseason opener, Drew Allar's three-touchdown performance stole the show. Allar, a rookie quarterback from Penn State, showcased his potential with a 154.8 passer rating, completing 10 of 13 passes. His performance was particularly impressive, as he executed Mike McCarthy's staple concepts, such as the Dragon (slant/flat) play, and demonstrated his mobility with a rushing touchdown. Allar's confidence and preparation were evident, as he led three touchdown drives in his three series, highlighting his ability to put up points in any situation. This performance is a promising sign for the Steelers' quarterback room, which includes Mason Rudolph and Will Howard.
Howard, a second-year pro, also had his moments, particularly during a successful two-minute drill. He showed composure and pocket movement, finding success on fourth-down and in situational football. However, Howard's performance had its peaks and valleys, with some miscues and room for improvement. The Steelers' defense, led by Patrick Graham, displayed an aggressive identity, with various pressures and a dynamic approach that could make it challenging for offenses to predict.
The game also highlighted the Steelers' running back rotation, with Travis Homer and Eli Heidenreich showing promise. However, the team's special teams had a rough night, with seven penalties for 134 yards, which could be a concern moving forward. Overall, the Steelers' preseason opener provided valuable insights into the team's strengths and areas for improvement, with Allar's performance standing out as a potential bright spot for the franchise.
