The Pittsburgh Steelers extended their winning streak to four games, edging out the Washington Commanders 28-27 in a nail-biting Week 10 showdown, thanks to a late-game heroics by quarterback Russell Wilson. After enduring his first interception in nearly a year, Wilson rebounded to connect with trade-deadline acquisition Mike Williams on a 32-yard touchdown pass, flipping the game with less than two and a half minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. The dramatic touchdown marked Wilson’s third scoring throw of the game and sealed a comeback victory for the AFC North-leading Steelers, who now sit at 7-2.
Coming off a bye week, the Steelers entered the game with momentum from three straight wins since Wilson took over for the injured Justin Fields. While Wilson’s stat line wasn’t gaudy—he finished 14 of 28 for 195 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception—he delivered in clutch moments, showing poise and resilience that galvanized Pittsburgh’s offense.
Early in the game, Wilson showcased his deep connection with his receiving corps. Wide receiver George Pickens put the Steelers on the board with an impressive 16-yard catch in the end zone, contorting his body midair for a jaw-dropping, acrobatic touchdown. Tight end Pat Freiermuth then extended Pittsburgh’s lead with a 3-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter, igniting the Steelers faithful and drawing roars from the thousands of Terrible Towel-waving fans in the stands.
The Commanders, however, didn’t back down easily. Led by rookie sensation Jayden Daniels, Washington (7-3) showed why they have been one of the NFC’s surprise success stories this season. Although Daniels, who’s been dealing with a rib injury, managed just 202 passing yards and was held without a touchdown for the first time this season, he orchestrated a balanced offense that kept Pittsburgh’s defense on its toes. With Washington up 24-14 in the second half, it seemed they might continue their impressive home run, as they attempted to reach an 8-2 record for the first time since 1986 and a 5-0 home start since their Super Bowl-winning 1991 season.
But Wilson and the Steelers had other plans. Down by six late in the game, Wilson seized the opportunity for a go-ahead score. He lofted a perfect over-the-shoulder throw to Williams, who made his only catch of the day count in a big way, giving Pittsburgh a 28-27 lead.
Daniels tried to respond, driving the Commanders downfield and setting up a crucial fourth-and-9 near midfield with less than a minute and a half to play. He found tight end Zach Ertz on a short pass, but the play was ruled just inches shy of the first down marker, ending Washington’s hopes for a comeback. Until that point, the Commanders had been a perfect 11 for 11 on fourth down this season.
The Steelers managed the final moments strategically. Facing a fourth-and-1 at Washington’s 49-yard line, Pittsburgh lined up as if to go for it. Wilson’s hard count coaxed rookie defensive lineman Johnny Newton into a costly offsides penalty, allowing Pittsburgh to run out the clock and secure the victory.
Despite the thrilling finish, Pittsburgh’s performance was far from flawless. The Commanders exposed weaknesses in their defense and controlled large portions of the game. However, Wilson’s ability to deliver in the game’s biggest moments underscored why the Steelers acquired him as their veteran leader.
The Steelers‘ fourth consecutive victory solidifies their position atop the AFC North and builds confidence as they continue their playoff push. As for Washington, despite the loss, the Commanders remain a competitive force in the NFC under first-year head coach Dan Quinn. Daniels has proven himself a promising franchise quarterback, showing resilience and potential even in tough outings.
Both teams will look to build on their strengths as they move further into the season, with Pittsburgh riding high on a memorable win and Washington regrouping to keep their playoff hopes alive.
