DUBLIN, Ireland (AP) – The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Minnesota Vikings 24-21 on Sunday in the NFL’s first regular-season game played in Ireland, overcoming a late Vikings rally fueled by two fourth-quarter touchdown passes from Carson Wentz. The game,played at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium,showcased the growing international appeal of the NFL and honored the legacy of the late Steelers chairman Daniel M. Rooney, a former U.S.ambassador to Ireland.
The Steelers built a 24-14 lead in the fourth quarter, but the Vikings fought back. Wentz connected with Zavier Scott for a 16-yard touchdown, followed by a prosperous 2-point conversion. Later, Wentz found Jordan Addison for an 81-yard reception, setting up Jalen Nailor’s 2-yard touchdown on fourth down. Minnesota’s comeback attempt ultimately fell short when Wentz’s fourth-and-17 pass from the Vikings 32 was incomplete, allowing the Steelers to run out the clock.
Wentz finished with two fourth-quarter touchdown passes. Justin Jefferson led the Vikings with 10 catches for 126 yards,while Addison had four catches for 114 yards in his season debut after serving a three-game suspension. The Vikings struggled on third down, converting only 4 of 14 attempts.
“We just didn’t do enough things to overcome either our own execution or the injuries or whatever,” Minnesota coach Kevin O’Connell said.
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin addressed the team Saturday to remember Rooney’s deep connection to Ireland,noting,”I know he’s smiling at us today. I’ve been thinking about him a lot on a personal level.”
An unusual play in the first half saw 41-year-old Vikings quarterback Aaron Rodgers scramble and fumble, but the ball bounced to Steelers lineman Broderick Jones, who advanced it 4 yards. The drive ultimately stalled, resulting in a blocked field goal.
The game was also marked by injuries. Vikings center Ryan Kelly was ruled out with a concussion, and tackle brian O’Neill exited with a knee injury. Steelers wide receiver Calvin austin III was hospitalized for evaluation of a shoulder injury,and cornerback Jalen Ramsey was hampered by a hamstring issue.The Vikings will next travel to London to face the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday. The Steelers have a bye week before hosting the browns on Sunday, Oct. 12.
