The Pittsburgh Steelers were able to win on the road against the Atlanta Falcons with the big leg of Chris Boswell. Boswell scored all of the Steelers' points hitting six field goals and three over 50 yards. Boswell was automatic every time his number was called, but when it came to push the Steelers ahead by eight, he had a new face as his holder.
"We had some unique contributions today like Scotty Miller as a backup holder. You know look at your flip card man, you don't see a backup holder on that flip card, so we're just really appreciative of unique skill sets that helps us win."
Miller who was signed this offseason, had an impressive preseason that earned him a spot on the Steelers' 53 man roster. Another former Falcons player that followed Arthur Smith to Pittsburgh, was placed in an unique situation to help secure the Steelers a Week 1 win and he made sure to deliver.
It was no surprise that the hero for the Steelers in their Week 1 victory was Boswell. Going six for six, hitting the game securing field goal with under 30 seconds left in the game with a brand new holder and even coming in to punt the ball after Johnston went down with his injury. Boswell was able to punt it for 40 yards, pinning the Falcons to their own 40 yard line that led to the Steelers picking off Kirk Cousins two plays later.
Tomlin praised Boswell enthusiastically after the game, highlighting his crucial role for the Steelers. Boswell not only scored all of the team's points but also stepped up as an emergency punter following Johnston's injury.
"Can't say enough about Bos, not only in terms of him kicking the ball, but that punt was timely."
Boswell was the MVP for Pittsburgh in their season opener, demonstrating his reliability with a flawless performance. He made all his kicks, including two from over 40 yards, three from over 50, and a crucial late-game field goal that secured an eight-point win for the Steelers. At 33 years old, Boswell proved why he remains one of the NFL’s top kickers. He is currently sixth all-time in kicking percentage at 87.17%.
The Steelers are very thankful that Boswell is still kicking at an elite level. Without his leg, they could have easily started the season with a loss. While Miller was able to step into the role that was left after Johnston's injury, the Steelers are hoping that he will never have to step into a situation like that again.
Steelers Hopeful To Not Need As Much From Chris Boswell Going Forward
The Steelers were hoping that the offense were going to be able to put points on the board, but they still struggled to find touchdowns. Thankfully, the Wizard of Boz is already in midseason form.
Now the Steelers will have to address the punting situation this week. While Boswell and Miller were the unsung heroes for the Steelers in Week 1, Pittsburgh hopes that the heroes from now on are on the offensive side of the ball. The Steelers will be on the road for Week 2 against the Denver Broncos, hoping to add another victory and not leaning on the leg of Boswell as much as they did in Atlanta.
