Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett, right, is stopped just short of the endzone by Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker, Cardinals linebacker Josh Woods, left, and Cardinals defensive end Jonathan Ledbetter during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Pittsburgh Steelers Fall to Arizona Cardinals in Rain-Delayed Game
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a demoralizing loss against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, as a rain-delayed game ended with a score of 24-10 in favor of the Cardinals.
The game was marked by two weather delays and an ankle injury that forced Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett out of the game. The Cardinals, on the other hand, used the delays to their advantage and even held a dance-off in the locker room.
Running back James Conner, facing his former team, proved to be a standout player for the Cardinals, rushing for 105 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Quarterback Kyler Murray also showcased his skills, throwing for 145 yards and rushing for 20 yards.
The Steelers struggled on both offense and defense, failing to produce a turnover and allowing all three of the Cardinals’ red zone drives to end in touchdowns. Backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky, who replaced the injured Pickett, struggled to make an impact.
Despite the loss, Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt acknowledged that the Cardinals outperformed them, stating, “We got pummeled today.”
While the Steelers remain in the hunt for a wild-card playoff spot, the Cardinals’ chances of making it to the postseason are slim. However, the team showed signs of progress under first-year head coach Jonathan Gannon, with the players demonstrating unity and determination.
Turning Point and Happy Homecoming
The turning point of the game came when Pickett was injured just short of the goal line, resulting in the Steelers being denied a touchdown. The Cardinals capitalized on this opportunity and went on to complete a 99-yard drive in the pouring rain.
For running back James Conner, the game held special meaning as he grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania, and played college football at the University of Pittsburgh. Conner had a standout performance, earning over 100 rushing yards and receiving the game ball.
Injuries and Upcoming Games
The Cardinals faced a setback when running back Emari Demercado suffered a neck injury after an illegal hit from Steelers linebacker Elandon Roberts. Wide receiver Marquise Brown also left the game with a heel injury.
The Steelers also experienced injuries, with Roberts leaving the game due to a groin injury and left guard Isaac Seumalo exiting with a shoulder injury.
Looking ahead, the Cardinals will enjoy a week off before facing the NFC West-leading San Francisco 49ers. Meanwhile, the Steelers will host the struggling New England Patriots on Thursday night.