Chris Boswell’s Clutch Kicking Lifts Steelers to 18-10 Win Over Falcons

In a season opener focused on the quarterbacks, it was Chris Boswell’s reliable leg that stole the show. The Pittsburgh Steelers kicker delivered six field goals, three of them from beyond 50 yards, to lead his team to an 18-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons. Boswell accounted for all of Pittsburgh’s points, helping secure the win in a hard-fought, defense-heavy game.

Boswell’s Perfect Performance

Boswell, known for his clutch kicking, made field goals from 57, 56, 51, 44, 40, and 25 yards. His stellar performance gave the Steelers all the offense they needed to start the season with a win. Even when Steelers punter Cameron Johnston was injured late in the game, Boswell stepped in and successfully punted the ball 43 yards, keeping the Falcons from making a return.

“I can’t say enough about Bos,” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. “Not only did he kick exceptionally well, but that punt was crucial.”

Justin Fields Steps In for Injured Russell Wilson

Steelers quarterback Justin Fields stepped into the starting role after Russell Wilson was ruled out with a calf injury. While Fields wasn’t flashy, he played a solid game, going 17 of 23 for 156 yards, avoiding costly mistakes, and helping manage the offense efficiently.

“Having a weapon like Boswell makes our job a lot easier,” Fields said. “We know we just need to get to the 40-yard line for him to do his thing.”

Falcons Struggle with New Quarterback Kirk Cousins

The Falcons’ highly anticipated debut of quarterback Kirk Cousins didn’t go as planned. Cousins, who signed a $180 million deal in the offseason, struggled in his first game since recovering from an Achilles injury. He completed 16 of 26 passes for 155 yards with two interceptions, including a crucial pick by Donte Jackson late in the game, which all but sealed the Steelers’ victory.

Cousins was also sacked on the game’s final play, drawing a roar from the Steelers fans who had packed Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Steelers Defense Makes Life Difficult for Falcons

Pittsburgh’s defense, led by T.J. Watt, made life tough for Cousins and the Falcons’ offense. Watt forced two fumbles, recovering one, and seemed to be everywhere on the field. Though penalties wiped out some of the Steelers’ defensive plays, they still held strong, forcing two turnovers and keeping Atlanta’s offense in check.

The Falcons’ offense also had issues with miscommunication, highlighted by a fumbled snap when tight end Ross Dwelley ran in motion at the wrong time, leading to a Pittsburgh recovery.

Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith Gets Revenge

Steelers’ new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who was fired by Atlanta after three consecutive 7-10 seasons, enjoyed a bit of payback against his former team. While Pittsburgh’s offense didn’t put up many points, Smith’s game plan and play-calling helped the Steelers control the tempo.

“I know how competitive he is, so this win definitely meant a lot to him,” Fields said of Smith. “He wishes we could’ve scored more, but he’s happy we got the win.”

Injury Woes for Both Teams

Pittsburgh suffered a blow when punter Cameron Johnston went down with a leg injury after Falcons’ KhaDarel Hodge collided with him. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin called Johnston “an absolute stud” but noted that the injury could be serious. Cornerback Darius Rush was also evaluated for a potential concussion.

For the Falcons, offensive guard Chris Lindstrom was cleared to return after being evaluated for a head injury in the first half.

What’s Next?

Steelers: Pittsburgh hits the road again next Sunday to face the Denver Broncos. If Wilson is healthy, it will be a chance for him to redeem himself against his former team, where he struggled for two seasons before signing with the Steelers.

Falcons: Atlanta travels to Philadelphia for a Monday night showdown against the Eagles, looking to bounce back from their tough opener.