Week 1 · 2026
T.J. Watt’s Pick-Six Sparks Steelers’ Opening Statement
Atlanta Falcons 13 at Pittsburgh Steelers 20
How the Game Went
Pittsburgh won 20-13 after a close Week 1 game against Atlanta. The Steelers led 3-0, but Bijan Robinson caught a 23-yard touchdown pass for a 7-3 Falcons lead. Chris Boswell’s field goal and Pat Freiermuth’s 6-yard touchdown catch put Pittsburgh ahead 13-7. A 51-yard field goal cut the lead to 13-10. Early in the fourth quarter, T.J. Watt intercepted Cooper Rush and ran 35 yards for a touchdown. Atlanta added a field goal, but Pittsburgh held on.
Standout Performers
Watt made the biggest play, scoring a pick-six and adding two sacks. A pick-six happens when a defender intercepts a pass and returns it for a touchdown. Aaron Rodgers passed for 221 yards and threw one touchdown to Freiermuth. Jaylen Warren helped with catches of 18 and 7 yards before that score, then ran 17 yards late to help drain the clock. For Atlanta, Robinson was a major threat. He rushed for 83 yards and caught eight passes for 90 yards.
What It Means
The Steelers begin the season 1-0 and next play the New England Patriots. Their victory showed how quickly a strong defense can change a game. Pittsburgh stayed calm after falling behind, then used Brisker’s interception and Watt’s touchdown to take control. The Falcons are 0-1 and will face the Carolina Panthers next. Although Atlanta lost, Robinson’s powerful all-around game gives the team a strong centerpiece. The Steelers also showed perseverance by recovering from mistakes and protecting their lead late.