Steelers Outmuscle Broncos 35-21 in Dominant Ground Performance

DENVER, CO — The Pittsburgh Steelers secured a decisive 35-21 victory over the Denver Broncos in Week 2, fueled by a combination of dominant rushing and clutch defense. Pittsburgh took control early, with Najee Harris bulldozing his way to two first-half touchdowns. The Steelers’ running game flourished, while Russell Wilson spread the ball effectively to George Pickens and Calvin Austin, keeping Denver’s defense on its heels.

The game remained scoreless until the second quarter when Harris’ relentless power running led to his first score, giving Pittsburgh the edge. A fumble recovery by Larry Ogunjobi later in the quarter allowed Pittsburgh to extend their lead, with Harris punching in another short-yardage touchdown before halftime.

Broncos’ rookie quarterback Bo Nix, facing a stiff Steelers’ defense, struggled in the first half but found his rhythm late in the game. His touchdown pass to Josh Reynolds in the third quarter gave the Broncos hope. Nix would finish with 255 passing yards and three touchdowns, connecting with Greg Dulcich and Marvin Mims Jr. on multiple key plays. However, turnovers would haunt Denver, as Minkah Fitzpatrick’s recovery of a fumble in the fourth quarter halted the Broncos’ momentum during a crucial drive.

The Broncos’ running game was steady, with Javonte Williams rushing for 42 yards, but they couldn’t overcome key defensive stands by the Steelers. Denver’s defense had difficulty containing Harris, who finished the game with 102 rushing yards and two total touchdowns.

Key Performers

Pittsburgh’s Najee Harris was the star of the show, rushing for 102 yards on 50 carries and three touchdowns. Russell Wilson also had a strong game, throwing for 201 yards and two touchdowns, hitting Calvin Austin and George Pickens in clutch moments. “We stuck to the game plan and executed when it mattered,” Harris said after the game. “This win was about controlling the clock and taking advantage of opportunities.”

Bo Nix led the Broncos with 255 passing yards and three touchdowns, while tight end Greg Dulcich contributed 73 receiving yards. Defensively, the Broncos struggled to contain Pittsburgh, but Nix expressed optimism: “We have a lot to clean up, but we’re showing improvement. We can build from this.”

Injuries

No significant injuries were reported from either team, with both squads emerging relatively unscathed from this hard-hitting matchup.

Up Next

In Week 3, the Steelers will return home to face the 1-1 Los Angeles Chargers, while the Broncos head to Florida for a road showdown against the 1-1 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, hoping to rebound from this defeat.