Pittsburgh Review

Veteran quarterbacks can significantly impact the outcome of a game, as demonstrated by Russell Wilson's performance in the Pittsburgh Steelers' 28-27 victory over the Washington Commanders. This win marked Wilson's 40th game-winning drive and his 32nd fourth-quarter comeback, moving him past John Elway on the NFL's all-time list.

"You have got to love clutch moments," said Wilson after throwing a decisive touchdown pass to Mike Williams with just over two minutes remaining. The Steelers had been trailing by ten points in the second half.

Williams, who joined the Steelers via trade from the Jets earlier in the week, had not practiced that specific route with Wilson but was ready when called upon. "He said, 'I want you to run this route,'" Williams recounted. Despite limited practice time together, Wilson trusted Williams to make a crucial play against Washington cornerback Benjamin St.-Juste.

Wilson completed 14 of 28 passes for 195 yards and three touchdowns, despite an interception that he described as an "arm punt." His strategic play late in the game secured the win when he used cadence to draw an offsides penalty from rookie defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton.

"In the huddle, we didn't have a play called," explained center Zach Frazier about their tactic on fourth-and-1. The Steelers' strategy paid off as they clinched victory without needing to execute a play.

Wilson expressed enthusiasm for his current role with Pittsburgh: "Excellence is built daily," he stated. He emphasized perseverance through adversity as key to success.

The Steelers also managed to contain Washington's rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels effectively. Outside linebacker Preston Smith highlighted their approach: "We just rushed. We didn't give rushing lanes for him."

Despite losing Alex Highsmith to injury during the game, Smith stepped up with three tackles and a sack. Smith praised his new teammates: "These dudes are as relentless as hell."

Defensively, Pittsburgh forced six three-and-outs against Washington and limited them to only two trips inside the red zone on drives starting outside it. Head coach Mike Tomlin noted how critical certain possessions were in shaping the game's outcome.

Special teams played a pivotal role too; Ben Skowronek recovered a muffed punt leading to a touchdown pass from Wilson shortly thereafter.

Offensively, George Pickens has benefited from Wilson's presence at quarterback, averaging more yards per game since Wilson took over.

Looking ahead, Pittsburgh faces division rivals Baltimore Ravens next Sunday. The team's ability to adapt defensively and offensively will be tested again.

Tomlin's leadership has drawn praise within the team for fostering a unique culture: "It's different here," said Skowronek of playing under Tomlin’s guidance.