This truly may have been one of the worst football games that we’ve ever seen, and as Detroit Lions fans, that’s saying something.
The Lions and Pittsburgh Steelers settled for a 16-16 tie this afternoon at Heinz Field, at least ensuring the fact that Detroit won’t to 0-17 and stopping the losing streak. The Steelers dropped to 5-3-1.
The Lions weren’t able to produce even 20 yards of offense in the 4th quarter, losing a 16-13 lead and failing to convert on several mistakes on Pittsburgh’s part. They had a chance to win the game in overtime, but the 48 yard field goal attempt from Ryan Santoso didn’t even reach the uprights. Both teams traded the ball back and forth in the extra session that was highlighted by a myriad of turnovers and penalties, with neither able to gain any considerable momentum.
Rudolph tossed a nine-yard touchdown pass to James Washington in the first quarter, putting the Steelers on the board first. It was rookie Jemar Jefferson who would respond for Detroit, a 28 yard run that resulted in him injuring his ankle and leaving the game.
Quarterback Jared Goff had a less than stellar afternoon, going 13-of-24 for 94 yards. Meanwhile, Mason Rudolph stepped in for starter Ben Roethlisberger, going 30-of-50 for 242 yards, one touchdown and an interception. However, one positive the Lions can take from today is D’Andre Swift’s 130 yards of offense, and the fas that they amassed more than 200 yards rushing for the first time in over three years.
In addition to Jefferson, Lions also lost Trey Flowers and Tracy Walker to injury.
Detroit will now turn their attention to the Cleveland Browns, whom they’ll pay a visit to next weekend.
