The Steelers parked most of their offensive regulars.
And when they return to the field, it’s certain they’ll be appreciated.
Backup quarterback Landry Jones has already thrown a pair of interceptions, one of which was returned by Eagles cornerback Nolan Carroll for a touchdown and a 7-0 lead.
Other than that Mrs. Lincoln, Jones was decent, leading a long drive which chewed up most of the first quarter. He’s 7-of-11 passing for 54 yards so far. But the red zone turnover and the pick six are the kind of mistakes backups can’t afford to make.
The Steelers left starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, wide receiver Antonio Brown, and running backs Le’Veon Bell and DeAngelo Williams on the sidelines, protecting the stars they’ll count on once the season begins.
From the other perspective, the Eagles have shown a knack for creating turnovers so far this preseason, with seven so far (six defense, one special teams). That’s the kind of start they’ll need from coordinator Jim Schwartz’s side, as the offense figures to be a work in progress no matter who’s quarterbacking.