2024 NFL Week 8 Recap: Steelers Secure Win Against Giants

The Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off an impressive 26-18 victory over the New York Giants during Week 8 of the 2024 NFL season. Despite gaining a season-high 426 yards on offense, the Steelers needed a late interception from rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. to seal the win. 

The victory extended Pittsburgh’s winning streak to three games and placed them atop the AFC North standings with a 6-2 record heading into their bye week. On the other hand, the Giants fell to 2-6, continuing their difficult season. So, if you want to know more about the Steelers vs Giants week 8 game, we have created a brief recap below:

First Half: Missed Opportunities and Trading Field Goals

The first half was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams struggling to find the end zone. They combined for over 400 yards of offense, but neither the Steelers nor the Giants could break through for a touchdown. 

Each team saw a potential touchdown called back due to penalties, leaving the score tied at 9-9 by halftime. Penalties and red zone inefficiency plagued both squads, resulting in a field-goal-heavy first half.

Pittsburgh managed to move the ball effectively, especially through running back Najee Harris, who had over 100 rushing yards by the end of the game. However, their red zone issues forced them to settle for field goals. 

The Giants also failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities, even though quarterback Daniel Jones connected with wide receiver Darius Slayton on some key plays. Their inability to convert yards into touchdowns left them with only field goals for their efforts. 

The outcome of this back-and-forth half left fans on edge, wondering how the game would shift in the final two quarters. For those who enjoy tracking team performance over the season, this matchup significantly impacted the NFL over under wins expectations for both teams.

Calvin Austin’s Punt Return Breaks the Deadlock

The third quarter brought the excitement the game had been missing. Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III provided the spark Pittsburgh needed with a 73-yard punt return for a touchdown. This special teams play was the first punt return touchdown for the Steelers since Week 1 of the 2021 season, giving them a 16-9 lead and energizing the home crowd.

Calvin Austin III wasn’t finished, either. On the next Steelers drive, quarterback Russell Wilson connected with him again for a 29-yard touchdown pass, extending Pittsburgh’s lead to 23-9. Wilson, who has now thrown a touchdown pass in 20 consecutive games, continues to find  his rhythm with the Steelers offense. Chemistry with his receivers, especially Austin and George Pickens is a big addition to the Steelers’ offensive capabilities.

Giants Fight Back with Rookie Sensation Tyrone Tracy

Despite falling behind, the Giants quickly responded with a big play. Rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. broke free for a 45-yard touchdown run, cutting the Steelers’ lead to 23-15. 

Tracy made history during this game, becoming the first Giants rookie running back to rush for over 100 yards in a “Monday Night Football” game. His breakout performance—137 yards on 18 carries—gave the Giants a fighting chance.

However, a failed two-point conversion out of an unusual formation left the Giants trailing by eight points. This failed attempt to close the gap set the tone for the rest of the game, as New York struggled to turn their efforts into points when it mattered most.

Fourth Quarter Drama: Turnovers and a Game-Sealing Interception

The final quarter was full of drama, with both teams making costly mistakes. After trading field goals, the Steelers led 26-18 when Russell Wilson fumbled on a scramble, giving the Giants a chance to tie the game. Giants linebacker Bobby Okereke recovered the ball, setting up New York’s offense with excellent field position on the Steelers’ 37-yard line.

When it looked like the Giants had an opportunity to mount a comeback, Steelers star pass rusher T.J. Watt took over. Watt strip-sacked Daniel Jones and recovered the fumble, preserving Pittsburgh’s lead. Watt’s dominant play late in the game reminded everyone why he’s one of the best defenders in the NFL, and his impact on the game was undeniable.

Despite this setback, the Giants’ defense gave their offense one final chance with just under two minutes to go. Daniel Jones drove the Giants downfield, but with 34 seconds left, rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. intercepted Jones’ pass intended for Devin Singletary, effectively ending the game and securing the Steelers’ victory.

Steelers Soar to the Top of the AFC North

The Steelers enter their bye week atop the AFC North, with Russell Wilson now 2-0 as their starting quarterback. Wilson’s growing chemistry with George Pickens, who recorded 74 yards on four catches, and Calvin Austin’s big-play potential have strengthened Pittsburgh’s offense. 

T.J. Watt’s fourth-quarter strip-sack sealed the win, showcasing the defense’s dominance. With a balanced attack led by Wilson’s leadership and Watt’s defensive prowess, the Steelers are positioning themselves as serious AFC contenders, poised for a deep playoff run.

Giants Struggle to Overcome Mistakes

The Giants’ 2-6 record worsened after another tough loss, marked by penalties and turnovers. Despite standout performances from Daniel Jones, Darius Slayton, and Tyrone Tracy—who had a breakout game with a 45-yard touchdown run—the team couldn’t capitalize on key opportunities. 

The offensive line struggled, allowing multiple sacks, including a crucial strip-sack by T.J. Watt. Tracy’s success in the ground game offered hope, but the Giants’ inability to convert yards into touchdowns remains a major issue. 

Heading into Week 9 against NFC East leader Washington, New York must address their mistakes to turn the season around.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

The Steelers enter their bye week as AFC North leaders with playoff potential, driven by strong defense and Wilson’s steady play at quarterback. Meanwhile, the 2-6 Giants face challenges, needing to fix errors and boost pass protection before their Week 9 game against Washington to salvage their season.