The New England Patriots' defense delivered the most dominant performance of Week 2, suffocating Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers in a 20-3 rout at Gillette Stadium. Pittsburgh's offense never found any rhythm, managing just one field goal all afternoon.
It was a humbling comedown for Rodgers, who had guided the Steelers to a 20-13 Week 1 win over Atlanta. New England's pass rush and coverage worked in perfect tandem, erasing Pittsburgh's playmakers and forcing the veteran quarterback into one uncomfortable afternoon.
The victory also served as a statement for a Patriots team smarting from its kickoff-week collapse in Seattle. With the defense playing at this level, New England looks capable of hanging with anyone in the AFC, and Pittsburgh heads into a short week with serious questions to answer.