Steelers Win NFL’s First Game in Dublin, Edge Vikings 24-21

DUBLIN, Ireland — The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Minnesota Vikings 24-21 in the NFL’s first regular-season game played in Ireland on Sunday.

Despite leading comfortably for most of the game, the Steelers allowed the Vikings to pull within three points late in the fourth quarter. The game featured critical moments, including a rugged defensive performance from Pittsburgh, who secured six sacks and a crucial interception.

Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw two touchdown passes and completed 16 of 23 attempts for 139 yards. His standout receiver, DK Metcalf, recorded his first 100-yard game with the Steelers, amassing significant yardage on crucial plays that kept drives alive.

On a day when Pittsburgh’s Run Game thrived, Kenneth Gainwell stepped up in the absence of Jaylen Warren, leading the backfield with 99 yards and two touchdowns. The offensive line dominated the Vikings’ defensive front, creating sizable running lanes and providing solid protection for Rodgers.

The Vikings struggled with their backup quarterback, Carson Wentz. Though he connected for two touchdowns, his three turnovers, including two interceptions, proved costly. Wentz’s performance saw him complete 14 of 20 passes for 173 yards.

Defensively, the Steelers capitalized on turnovers, with Keeanu Benton and Payton Wilson each contributing significantly with sacks and tackles. However, miscommunication in the secondary led to an 81-yard touchdown play by the Vikings that threatened to turn the game.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin faced criticism for his late-game decision-making, including a questionable call to settle for a field goal on a fourth-and-goal situation. Nonetheless, the victory puts Pittsburgh at 3-1 heading into their bye week.

The game, held at Croke Park, marked a historic moment for the NFL’s international initiative and was watched by thousands of fans excited for this unique matchup.