The Pittsburgh Steelers overcame a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 26-19 in overtime on Oct. 18, 2026, powered by standout offensive performances from Germie Bernard and DK Metcalf.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh offense shook off a sluggish start in Tampa, Fla., erasing a double-digit deficit late in regulation before securing the extra-session victory.
Rodgers and Receivers Ignite the Second-Half Surge
The offensive rhythm shifted after halftime as Rodgers began holding the ball longer and looking downfield, though he still averaged just 5.2 yards per attempt. With regular targets limited primarily to Germie Bernard and DK Metcalf, Bernard hauled in 11 catches for 87 yards, capped by the game-winning touchdown in overtime. Metcalf also contributed significantly to the fourth-quarter comeback bid, finishing with 11 catches for 93 yards.
Steelers report card: Germie Bernard and DK Metcalf step up in the win over the Buccaneers https://t.co/UwNiZbgKje #Steelers #NFL
On the ground, running backs Rico Dowdle and Jaylen Warren combined for 54 yards in the first half while averaging better than five yards per carry. Play-calling shifts forced the offense into a one-dimensional passing attack during the second half, though Warren re-emerged in overtime by exploiting holes in coverage to finish with two catches for 28 yards. Tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington yielded limited yardage, though Washington broke free for the team’s initial touchdown.
Defensive Adjustments Stop Buccaneers’ Rookie Quarterback
While the offense engineered its late-game comeback, Pittsburgh’s defense capitalized on miscues by Tampa Bay rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels. The defensive unit forced costly mistakes that allowed the visiting squad to claw back into contention.
Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy missed halftime after sustaining an on-field injury, adding to an afternoon that concluded with a road victory against the Buccaneers.