The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense played a massive role in the 18-10 Week 1 win over the Atlanta Falcons, as the unit was absolutely stifling and completely shut down quarterback Kirk Cousins and the Falcons' offense.
Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. got his season off to an impressive start in the process, with the second-year player surrendering just one catch for seven yards in coverage, good enough for a Pro Football Focus grade of 71.7.
Making his showing more impressive was the fact that he had to cover Falcons top receiver Drake London, who tallied just two catches for 15 yards on three targets. Porter Jr. surrendered one of those catches for seven yards, but that was it.
London was completely shut out in the second half, as all of his lackluster production came over the first two quarters. When asked if he knew whether or not London even played in the second half, Porter Jr. had a little fun.
"You tell me," Porter Jr. said to reporters, per Dale Lolley of Steelers.com. "What was his stat line?"
When a reporter revealed London's final stat line, Porter Jr. went in again.
"Yeah, he did a little warm up today," Porter Jr. said. "It was good."
The Falcons' offense just couldn't get anything going against the Steelers on Sunday, mostly because of the pass-rush, which had Cousins under duress all game long. Pittsburgh's defense notched three turnovers and should've had a fourth, but the officials made a bad call on an offsides penalty against T.J. Watt.
After an impressive rookie season, Porter Jr. looked primed to take the next step in his career in Year 2, and he clearly has the confidence necessary to do just that.
The Steelers will look to start the season with a 2-0 record when they travel to Empower Field at Mile High on Sunday to take on the Denver Broncos in Week 2.
