The Steelers opened the season with a win over the Jets on Sunday, but the game raised questions about the team’s dynamic on defense.

On offense, there was some very good news. For the first time since week 16 of the 2023 season, the Steelers scored an opening drive touchdown, as Rodgers threw to Ben Skowronek over the middle of the field. Calvin Austin, Jonnu Smith, and Jaylen Warren also caught touchdown passes from Rodgers.

Rodgers ended the game 22 for 30 for 244 passing yards, answering those who had doubted him. Though his age still does pose questions, he showed he still can read defenses and find the open man.

Austin had four catches for 70 yards and a 17.5 average. Austin will be the solution as the wide receiver 2, as he completed multiple tough catches.

While Rodgers and his receivers looked good, other parts of the team looked rough. The offensive line and the running backs had issues hitting holes and creating space. Rodgers was sacked four times, and none of the running backs broke 40 yards total rushing.

Additionally, the defense that had been named world-class in the preseason by Head Coach Mike Tomlin was far from that on Sunday. While standout players Jalen Ramsey, Alex Highsmith, and Patrick Queen had good games, other big players came up short.

The defense allowed the Jets to gain 394 total yards and made Jets running back Breece Hall look like a first-team all-pro. Former Steeler Justin Fields had a great game at quarterback for New York, connecting with Garrett Wilson for a touchdown and passing for 212 passing yards.

Despite the weak spots, the Steelers were able to drive down the field late in the fourth quarter, and Chris Boswell kicked a 60-yard field goal to win it.

The Steelers will play the Seahawks Sunday at 1 p.m.