MVPs of the Game

QB Justin Fields

Justin Fields showcased both brilliance and frustration in this match. Leading the Steelers with tenacity, he orchestrated three crucial scoring drives, either rushing or throwing for touchdowns. A standout moment came late in the game with a pinpoint sideline throw to George Pickens, setting up vital points. However, his decision-making was baffling at times; a disastrous 20-yard backward sack leading to a fumble was a glaring misstep in year four of his career. Despite these flaws, Fields' performance in the second half was spectacular. Had Pickens not fumbled in the red zone earlier, the game could have taken a different trajectory. Still, Steelers fans can take solace in Fields’ continued promise as they sit at a 3-1 record.

S DeShon Elliott

The standout offseason signing for the Steelers, Elliott has made an immediate impact. He took charge in the run game, consistently darting up from his safety position for tackles, while also displaying adept coverage skills. With a team-leading eight tackles and a fumble forced, he was one of the few defensive players who showed up to compete.

RB Cordarrelle Patterson

In a game where the rushing game struggled, Patterson emerged as a beacon of hope, racking up 43 yards on only six carries before exiting with an ankle injury. His explosive running stood in stark contrast to the struggles of his teammates. If Jaylen Warren is unable to suit up in Week 5, the Steelers may need to lean heavily on Patterson moving forward.

TE Pat Freiermuth

Breaking a streak of games without a touchdown, Freiermuth finally found the end zone and did so in spectacular fashion, evading multiple defenders to help close the gap. He secured five receptions for 57 yards, continuing to serve as a reliable target for Fields.

Areas for Improvement

LB Patrick Queen

Concerns are mounting regarding Patrick Queen, who has struggled with consistency this season. Against the Colts, he was notably absent, failing to effectively cover the middle of the field, which the Colts exploited repeatedly. Both he and Payton Wilson had lackluster performances that raised eyebrows.

CB Joey Porter Jr.

Porter had a night to forget, allowing Michael Pittman to exploit him for five catches totaling 81 yards and a touchdown. This marked one of the toughest displays of his young career, coming at a crucial moment for the Steelers' defensive efforts.

RB Najee Harris

Harris's frustrations were evident after the game when questioned about Fields' leadership in the comeback; he insisted on sharing the credit. However, with a meager 19 yards on 13 carries, criticism of his performance is warranted. Unlike Cordarrelle Patterson, who thrived, Harris struggled, further justifying the Steelers' decision to decline his option.

WR George Pickens

While Pickens recorded an impressive 113 yards on seven catches, his critical fumble in the red zone proved costly. Carelessness with the football during a crucial moment highlighted the need for better ball security.

OT Broderick Jones

The offensive line as a whole had a daunting task, but Jones stood out for allowing three pressures, two hurries, and a sack. Fields was besieged throughout the game, making it difficult for the offense to find any rhythm.

Defensive Line

Against a rookie center for the Colts, the Steelers’ defensive line faltered, failing to apply pressure on quarterbacks Anthony Richardson and Joe Flacco. They allowed Jonathan Taylor to amass 133 yards on the ground, a disheartening performance for a unit expected to excel.

Coaching Analysis

Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith faced scrutiny for his play-calling, particularly on second-and-long situations where he opted to run into heavily stacked boxes. Though he has had success previously, yesterday’s game highlighted some questionable decisions.

Head Coach Mike Tomlin's leadership also came under the microscope, as the team stumbled early, digging themselves out of a 17-0 hole. A challenging call that he unsuccessfully contested capped off an evening to forget. While calls for his job aren’t warranted, his coaching decisions certainly deserve scrutiny.

As the Steelers prepare for their next bout, all eyes will be on how they can rectify these shortcomings and regain their winning momentum. Will they bounce back, or are we seeing the start of a troubling trend? Stay tuned!