Story perspectives

Steelers Fall 20-3 to Patriots as McCarthy Blames Playcalling

By Drooid · Sep 21, 2026, 2:22 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost 20-3 to the New England Patriots in Week 2.
Head coach Mike McCarthy (Steelers) blamed his play calling for the offense's struggles.
Aaron Rodgers completed 23 of 39 passes for 187 yards, threw one interception and fumbled twice.
James Harrison and Le'Veon Bell publicly criticized the offense on social media.

History

Historical Context

In 2007 the New England Patriots, coached by Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady, went 16-0, scoring a record 589 points and 50 touchdown passes before the New York Giants upset them in Super Bowl XLII. That historic collapse resurfaces as the Patriots dominate again while the Steelers, after a 20-3 loss, fight to avoid a similar playoff miss.

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Story summary

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost 20-3 to the New England Patriots in Week 2.
Head coach Mike McCarthy (Steelers) blamed his play calling for the offense's struggles.
Aaron Rodgers completed 23 of 39 passes for 187 yards, threw one interception and fumbled twice.
James Harrison and Le'Veon Bell publicly criticized the offense on social media.

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