The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Los Angeles Chargers 24-17 in a Sunday Night Football matchup at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on December 3, 2023. The victory propels the Steelers to a 7-3 record, solidifying their position in the AFC playoff picture, while the Chargers fall to 5-5, facing increasing pressure to contend for a postseason berth.
This game carried notable weight for both franchises as the NFL season enters its critical stretch. For Pittsburgh,a win reinforces their resilience adn head coach Mike Tomlin’s undefeated record against losing seasons. Los Angeles, simultaneously occurring, needed a victory to maintain momentum and quiet concerns surrounding quarterback justin Herbert‘s performance and the team’s overall consistency. The outcome directly impacts the AFC playoff seeding and the potential for both teams to advance beyond the regular season.
Najee Harris led the Steelers’ rushing attack wiht 122 yards on 28 carries, and quarterback Kenny Pickett completed 24 of 38 passes for 237 yards. George pickens was Pickett’s primary target, hauling in four receptions for 90 yards. the Steelers defense proved pivotal, intercepting Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert twice.
Herbert finished with 324 passing yards and two touchdowns, connecting with Keenan Allen eight times for 111 yards. However, the two interceptions and a crucial late-game fumble proved costly for the Chargers.
Pittsburgh took a 10-7 lead into halftime after a field goal and a touchdown run by Harris. The Steelers extended their advantage in the third quarter with another Harris touchdown.The Chargers responded with a touchdown pass from Herbert to Quentin Johnston,but a late Steelers field goal and a final interception sealed the victory.
The Steelers will return home to face the Arizona Cardinals next Sunday, while the Chargers will travel to face the Las Vegas Raiders.
