Pittsburgh Review

After securing victories in Atlanta and against the Broncos, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Los Angeles Chargers at home in Week 3 of the 2024 season. Both teams entered the game undefeated with strong defensive records.

The Steelers played without outside linebacker Alex Highsmith due to a groin injury. However, Nick Herbig stepped up by recording two sacks and forcing a fumble. "I'm not surprised by the performance," said T.J. Watt, another key linebacker for the Steelers. "He went out there and played with a lot of swag and confidence."

In a dominant defensive display, the Steelers allowed only minus-5 yards of offense in the second half, preventing any further touchdowns from the Chargers after their initial score—a touchdown pass from Justin Herbert to Quentin Johnston.

The game was tied 7-7 after a 5-yard touchdown run by Justin Fields. The Chargers led 10-7 at halftime following a field goal, but Chris Boswell missed a long field goal attempt for Pittsburgh as time expired.

Pittsburgh equalized with a Boswell field goal early in the second half. Herbig then sacked Herbert, exacerbating an existing ankle injury for Herbert. The Chargers' offensive struggles continued as Elandon Roberts sacked Herbert after Bud Dupree intercepted Fields.

Fields later connected with Calvin Austin III for a 55-yard touchdown pass, putting Pittsburgh ahead 20-10. The Steelers defense held firm, allowing only 166 total yards to Los Angeles while achieving five sacks on Herbert and backup Taylor Heinicke.

Fields completed 25-of-32 passes for 245 yards with one touchdown and one interception while rushing for another score. Najee Harris contributed with 70 rushing yards on 18 carries, while Austin had four receptions totaling 95 yards and one touchdown. Patrick Queen led defensively with eight tackles.

The Chargers matched their season-high of allowing 20 points in an away game during this matchup.