There were pluses and minuses to Saturday night's preseason game for the Steelers.
The positive was that the special teams units were better than they had been in last week's preseason-opening 20-12 loss to the Houston Texans. The defense also played much better than it did against Houston.
The first-team offense?
That was a struggle.
Seeing his first action of the preseason, Russell Wilson completed 8 of 10 passes for 47 yards. But shoddy protection led to him being sacked three times in the five possessions.
Backup Justin Fields didn't fare much better, as the Steelers produced just 219 yards in a 9-3 loss to the Bills Saturday night at Acrisure Stadium.
The loss drops the Steelers to 0-2 in the preseason, and perhaps puts more urgency into next Saturday's preseason finale at Detroit.
"It was still not what we're looking for," said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. "It was better in some areas, but still JV in some others."
Though Wilson and Fields combined to complete 19 of 27 passes, they went for just 139 yards.
Wilson, signed in the offseason as a free agent, was seeing his first action of the preseason after dealing with a calf injury suffered during the team's conditioning drill at training camp.
The nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback was pressured early and often, as Buffalo defensive end Gregory Rousseau sacked him twice on his own and shared another with defensive tackle Ed Oliver on the Steelers' first three possessions.
"We didn't do a good enough job of protecting the quarterback," Tomlin acknowledged. "We've got to do a better job in pass protection that we did, not only on possessions downs, but just in general. That can't be a problem for us
Fortunately for the Steelers, who did not play outside linebackers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith along with defensive tackle Cam Heyward, the Bills also chose to sit quarterback Josh Allen after rain storms drenched the field at Acrisure Stadium prior to the start of the game.
In his absence, former Steelers quarterback Mitch Trubisky started for the Bills, and it was a Trubisky mistake that led to the game's first scoring opportunity.
After both teams traded multiple punts in the first quarter, Trubisky, who had been sacked twice in the first quarter, was pressured into an errant throw on Buffalo's second possession of the second quarter and picked off by safety Miles Killebrew at the Pittsburgh 42.
Taking over at their own 44, the Steelers got to the Buffalo 37 on an 11-yard pass from Wilson to Van Jefferson.
On first down, Wilson lofted a pass down the sideline to George Pickens that Pickens hauled in just outside the 10-yard line. But Pickens was unable to get a second foot down in bounds and after two more plays, the Steelers sent Chris Boswell out to attempt a 52-yard field goal.
Boswell's attempt hit off the left upright and the game remained scoreless with 6:45 remaining in the half.
Taking over at their own 42, the Bills used the field position to drive for a field goal attempt of their own, as Tyler Bass kicked a 27-yard field goal to take a 3-0 lead with 2:10 remaining in the half.
Fields entered the game at that point, but the Steelers were quickly forced to punt. The Bills, however, failed to generate any offense, as well, quickly punting the ball back to the Steelers with 1:07 remaining in the second quarter.
Fields got the Steelers into range for Boswell once again, including scrambling 20 yards, and the Steelers' placekicker booted a 43-yard field goal to tie the game at 3-3 just before the half.
"I thought he did a nice job utilizing his legs, whether it was impromptu or otherwise," said Tomlin of Fields, who rushed for 40 yards.
Game action photos from the Steelers' Week 2 preseason game against the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Donte Jackson (26) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Donte Jackson (26) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Cameron Johnston (5) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen (6) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen (6) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (95) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Isaiahh Loudermilk (92) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III (19) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Cameron Johnston (5) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (95) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen (6) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Julius Welschof (48) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren (30) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (95) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Tyler Matakevich (44) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Tyler Matakevich (44) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Julius Welschof (48) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (95) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (95) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Cameron Johnston (5) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Dean Lowry (94) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Quez Watkins (16) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Thomas Graham Jr. (37), Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (41), Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee (23) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (41) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28), Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (41) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen (6) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Jalen Elliott (34) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Van Jefferson (11) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Mark Robinson (93), Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Rush (21) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Julius Welschof (48) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren (30) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Mason McCormick (66) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Cameron Johnston (5) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Tyler Matakevich (44) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end MyCole Pruitt (81) and Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell (9) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick (82) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Cameron Johnston (5) and Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell (9) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (24) receives the Joe Greene Great Performance Award and Rookie Of The Year during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (24) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig (51) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (24) receives the Joe Greene Great Performance Award and Rookie Of The Year during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Mason McCormick (66) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Mason McCormick (66) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Thomas Graham Jr. (37) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee (23) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Mark Robinson (93) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kyle Allen (4) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers offense during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end DeMarvin Leal (98) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Mason McCormick (66) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Fans during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center Zach Frazier (54) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Rush (21) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Rush (21) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end/fullback Connor Heyward (83) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Cameron Johnston (5) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Youth Football during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Youth Football during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell (9) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Ryan Watts (29) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Youth Football during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Jon Willey / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end/fullback Connor Heyward (83) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end/fullback Connor Heyward (83) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end MyCole Pruitt (81) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Spencer Anderson (74) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) nduring a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back La'Mical Perine (38) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
US Steel Salute to Heroes during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
US Steel Salute to Heroes presentation during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Isaiahh Loudermilk (92) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back La'Mical Perine (38) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jacoby Windmon (45) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback John Rhys Plumlee (18) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Matt Sokol (49) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2), Pittsburgh Steelers center Ryan McCollum (62) and Pittsburgh Steelers guard/offensive tackle Tyler Beach (69) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Daijun Edwards (31) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Julius Welschof (48) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Julius Welschof (48) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Scotty Miller (13) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end/fullback Connor Heyward (83) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Daijun Edwards (31) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick (82) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick (82) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Fans during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back La'Mical Perine (38) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Julius Welschof (48) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Fans during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick (82) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end/fullback Connor Heyward (83) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick (82) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Daijun Edwards (31) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick (82) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Logan Lee (74) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Harrison Barden/ Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Bills took the opening kickoff of the second half and drove to the Pittsburgh 8, but Darius Rush broke up a third-down pass in the end zone on third down from Ben DiNucci to Justin Shorter to force Buffalo to settle for another Bass field goal and a 6-3 lead.
The Steelers moved the ball to the 9, largely through their rushing game, on the ensuing possession, but Fields was stopped for a 7-yard loss on an attempted QB keeper on fourth down to give the Bills the ball back on downs.
The Bills again drove downfield for another field goal, this one from 31 yards by Bass to take a 9-3 lead, giving the Steelers the ball back with just under nine minutes remaining in the game.
Fields pushed the Steelers into scoring range, including connecting with Dez Fitzpatrick for a 19-yard gain along the sideline on third-and-7 after escaping a sack. But on fourth-and-4 from the Buffalo 20, his pass intended for Connor Heyward fell incomplete, turning the ball over to the Bills with 3:05 remaining in the game.
Buffalo's offense didn't fare much better, as Buffalo's quarterbacks combined to throw for just 106 yards and 78 net yards. But the Bills did rush for 159 yards, most of which came in the second half.
