The Pittsburgh Steelers got off to a slow start on defense against the home team: the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders used the run and complimented it by targeting tight ends on their opening offensive series. In 10 plays, the Raiders moved 70 yards and put 7 points on the scoreboard. On 2nd & 7 at the Vegas 30, the Raiders were in the process of playing their fourth series when Watt threw his first punch of the game. Aidan O’Connell passed the ball to Dylan Laube for a strong attack at the free-throw line, but Watt timed the ball perfectly and was forced to drop the ball. Keeanu Benton was able to get the ball back and the Steelers offense turned the loss into a seven-point deficit to take the lead, 12-7, before halftime.

TJ Watt Punch-outs Long Sleeve Shirt

On Las Vegas’ third offensive series of the second half, the Raiders used 6 plays to get 2nd & Goal at the Pittsburgh 6. O’Connell threw a touchdown to Alexander Mattison but the play was abandoned due to an ineligible player down the field. They gained yardage on the ensuing replay of the 2nd down from the 11-yard line to set up 3rd & Goal at the Pittsburgh 1. The handoff was routed to Ameer Abdullah, but once again Watt went home. Using part of his arm, Watt punched the ball out and DeShon Elliott was able to retrieve it before being tackled at the 11-yard line.

Watt became the first Steelers player to have two TFLs and at least two FFs in the same game since James Harrison did so in Week 13 of the 2008 NFL season against the New England Patriots. This was Watt’s fifth career game with at least two FFs and his 33rd game with at least two TFLs.