Steelers vs. New York Giants: Player Stats Breakdown

The Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants faced off in a highly anticipated NFL matchup that was full of exciting plays, strategic game planning, and standout individual performances. Both teams brought their best to the field, with crucial player stats helping to shape the final outcome. This article will take an in-depth look at the key player statistics from the Steelers vs. Giants game and break down how these performances influenced the contest.

Steelers Key Performers

The Pittsburgh Steelers came into the game with a strong defense and a steadily improving offense. Several key players stepped up to ensure a victory, from their quarterback to their star defensive players.

Ben Roethlisberger – 24/36 Passes, 260 Yards, 2 Touchdowns, 1 Interception

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger played a solid game, completing 24 of 36 passes for 260 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception. Roethlisberger’s ability to read defenses and make timely throws helped the Steelers keep the chains moving. His two touchdown passes were crucial in giving the Steelers the lead, while his lone interception came late in the game but didn’t derail the offense completely. Roethlisberger’s leadership was key in maintaining control throughout the contest.

Najee Harris – 18 Carries, 95 Yards, 1 Touchdown

Rookie running back Najee Harris was a standout performer for the Steelers. He rushed for 95 yards on 18 carries, including a 3-yard touchdown run in the second quarter that helped Pittsburgh maintain its momentum. Harris’s physical running style and vision in finding holes were evident as he wore down the Giants’ defense. His performance was crucial in maintaining balance on offense, allowing the Steelers to keep the Giants’ defense guessing with both the run and pass game.

Diontae Johnson – 7 Receptions, 80 Yards, 1 Touchdown

Wide receiver Diontae Johnson was a key target for Ben Roethlisberger throughout the game. Johnson finished with 7 receptions for 80 yards and 1 touchdown. His ability to make contested catches and get open in the red zone was critical for Pittsburgh’s success. Johnson’s 12-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter was a pivotal moment that extended the Steelers’ lead and provided them with the cushion they needed to secure the win.

T.J. Watt – 5 Tackles, 2 Sacks, 1 Forced Fumble

Defensive standout T.J. Watt had an outstanding performance, making his presence felt all over the field. Watt recorded 5 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. His pressure on Giants quarterback Daniel Jones was a key factor in disrupting their passing game. Watt’s relentless pursuit of the quarterback helped keep the Giants from establishing a rhythm on offense, and his sacks came at crucial moments to halt any momentum the Giants were building.

Giants Key Performers

Despite the loss, the New York Giants had several key players who fought hard to stay competitive. 

Their quarterback and defense put forth solid performances, although turnovers and missed opportunities ultimately led to their downfall.

Daniel Jones – 22/35 Passes, 215 Yards, 1 Touchdown, 1 Interception

Quarterback Daniel Jones showed flashes of potential, completing 22 of 35 passes for 215 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception. Jones was able to move the ball effectively at times, connecting with his receivers and making solid throws. However, his interception in the fourth quarter proved costly, stalling any chance for the Giants to mount a comeback. Despite the turnover, Jones displayed good poise in the pocket and made several key throws throughout the game.

Saquon Barkley – 15 Carries, 65 Yards, 1 Touchdown, 4 Receptions, 25 Yards

Running back Saquon Barkley, returning from injury, showed his explosiveness in this game. Barkley rushed for 65 yards on 15 carries, including a 1-yard touchdown run in the first quarter to give the Giants an early lead. Additionally, he contributed in the passing game, catching 4 passes for 25 yards. Barkley’s ability to contribute both on the ground and in the air gave the Giants offense some balance, but he wasn’t able to break free for any big plays that would have swung momentum in their favor.

Kenny Golladay – 5 Receptions, 70 Yards

Wide receiver Kenny Golladay made an impact with 5 receptions for 70 yards. Golladay provided a steady target for Daniel Jones throughout the game, especially on third downs, where he was able to create separation and move the chains. While Golladay didn’t score, his ability to consistently gain yards was vital in keeping the Giants in the game. He was a key player for Jones to rely on, though more big plays were needed to keep pace with the Steelers’ offense.

Leonard Williams – 4 Tackles, 1 Sack, 1 Forced Fumble

On defense, Leonard Williams had a strong outing, recording 4 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble. Williams was able to apply pressure on Ben Roethlisberger and disrupt Pittsburgh’s offensive rhythm. His sack came in the second half and briefly halted the Steelers’ momentum. However, despite Williams’ efforts, the Giants’ defense struggled to consistently get to Roethlisberger and prevent Pittsburgh from scoring.

FAQs 

How is Najee Harris performing in the 2024 season?

Najee Harris has been a key offensive weapon for the Steelers. He has rushed for 900 yards and 6 touchdowns on 220 carries. While Harris has faced criticism for not breaking out with more explosive plays, his consistent performance in the running game and ability to wear down defenses make him a central figure in the Steelers’ offense.

What impact has Saquon Barkley had on the Giants’ offense?

Saquon Barkley has been a standout player for the Giants, rushing for nearly 1,200 yards and 9 touchdowns. Additionally, Barkley has contributed in the passing game, with over 300 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns. His ability to make big plays on the ground and through the air will be critical for the Giants’ success against Pittsburgh.

Which defensive player should we watch out for in this matchup?

On defense, both teams feature game-changing players. For the Steelers, TJ Watt has been dominant, registering 14 sacks and forcing multiple turnovers. Meanwhile, rookie Kayvon Thibodeaux has been a bright spot for the Giants, recording 8 sacks and wreaking havoc in opposing backfields. Both players are capable of shifting the momentum of the game with big plays.

To Conclude

The Steelers vs. Giants game was an exciting matchup that saw key performances from both teams. Ben Roethlisberger’s veteran leadership and Najee Harris’s breakout performance helped the Steelers to control the game, while T.J. Watt’s defensive dominance was a key factor in limiting the Giants’ offense.

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