Patriots Beat Steelers 20-3 as Defense Dominates Aaron Rodgers in Season Opener

The New England Patriots earned their first win of the 2026 season with a 20-3 rout of the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium. The defense led the way with two turnovers, highlighted by Christian Barmore forcing a fumble that Elijah Ponder scooped and returned 19 yards for a touchdown. Trevon Henderson added a 39-yard rushing score in his first game of the season, while Andy Borlandis connected on field goals from 30 and 45 yards. Aaron Rodgers struggled, finishing 23 of 39 for 187 yards with no touchdowns and an interception as Pittsburgh managed just 3.5 yards per play.