PFF Grades Vikings' Donovan Jackson in Week 3: A Solid Performance Despite Penalty
Guard Donovan Jackson has looked like a homerun selection for the Vikings through the early parts of the season. He was impressive in the first two weeks before injury hit him and derailed his momentum. The team hopes to have him back sooner rather than later following surgery on his elbow.
To get some added context on his overall performance from a Week 3 where he gutted it out, we can turn to Pro Football Focus for that.
PFF's Dalton Wasserman took a deep dive
Wasserman writes, "Jackson performed reasonably well in pass protection against the Bengals, allowing just one pressure across 29 pass-blocking snaps. A false start penalty committed in the third quarter partially dragged down his 55.3 PFF overall grade. Otherwise, Jackson turned in a respectable performance in Week 3."
Jackson was matched up with Jets' defensive lineman Kris Jenkins, who has been one of their more underrated pieces. He achieved mild success, earning a grade of 55.3, one of his lower grades for the year. All in all, he should be back to his usual dominant self once he returns from injury.
Steelers’ Bold Predictions for Dublin Game vs. Vikings: Rodgers, Watt, and Metcalf Ready to Make History
The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to make history in Dublin, Ireland, when they face the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, September 28, marking the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Ireland. Both teams enter the matchup with 2-1 records, and the excitement is palpable as the Steelers are looking to make a statement on the international stage. While the matchup is undoubtedly important for both teams, it presents unique opportunities for Pittsburgh’s stars to shine. Here are three bold predictions for the Steelers as they prepare for the historic game at Croke Park.
Aaron Rodgers Will Throw for 300+ Yards and Three Touchdowns
Aaron Rodgers may have had a shaky start to the season, ranking 35th among 36 qualifying quarterbacks in Pro Football Focus’ grades, but the spotlight in Dublin could be just the thing to ignite his performance. Rodgers has thrown for seven touchdowns and three interceptions so far, but his yards per attempt (6.8) has been less than stellar. The Vikings' defense, although strong, may struggle to handle the emotional weight of playing on the international stage. Rodgers thrives on big moments, and with DK Metcalf and Jonnu Smith forming a solid rapport, the Packers’ quarterback is primed for a breakout game. He has a history of performing well in Week 4 matchups, throwing for over 224 yards in 10 of his last 11 such games. Rodgers will exploit the Vikings' secondary, leading the Steelers to a memorable performance in Dublin with over 300 passing yards and three touchdowns. The atmosphere at Croke Park, combined with Pittsburgh being the "home" team, will fuel his resurgence.
T.J. Watt Will Record Three Sacks and Force Two Fumbles
T.J. Watt has had a somewhat quiet start to the season with just two sacks and one forced fumble through three games, but the Vikings' offensive line presents a prime opportunity for the Steelers’ defensive superstar. The Vikings are starting Carson Wentz due to J.J. McCarthy’s injury, and Wentz will be behind a line that has struggled to protect the quarterback. Watt is known for elevating his game in big matchups, and the international stage in Dublin will be no different. Watt has a knack for taking advantage of pass rush opportunities, and he will feast on Wentz’s tendency to hold onto the ball too long. Expect Watt to not only record three sacks but also force at least two fumbles as he brings havoc to the Vikings' offense. This performance will reaffirm why Watt is one of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in the NFL.
DK Metcalf Will Have His Breakout Game with 8+ Catches for 120+ Yards
DK Metcalf’s transition to Pittsburgh has been a gradual one, but the Vikings’ secondary offers the perfect matchup for Metcalf to explode. The Vikings will be without key defensive backs, and Metcalf has a history of dominating NFC opponents, scoring in each of his last three matchups against the Vikings. As the timing with Rodgers continues to improve, Metcalf will finally showcase his full potential in this game. His size, speed, and physicality will prove too much for the Vikings’ defenders, especially with Byron Murphy Jr. potentially dealing with the effects of international travel. With the historic backdrop of Croke Park and 76,000 fans in attendance, Metcalf will rise to the occasion, recording over 120 yards and at least one touchdown. This breakout performance will solidify his place as Pittsburgh's top receiving threat and prove that the Steelers made the right move in acquiring him.
A Historic Game in Dublin
This matchup in Dublin is more than just a regular-season game for the Pittsburgh Steelers. It’s a chance to make a statement on the international stage while honoring the team’s Irish heritage through the legacy of Art Rooney Sr. With the stakes high, expect Pittsburgh’s stars—Rodgers, Watt, and Metcalf—to deliver performances that will be remembered long after the final whistle. The game at Croke Park will be a defining moment in the careers of these players and will go down in history as one of the most iconic moments for the Steelers. Whether it’s Rodgers silencing his critics, Watt dominating the pass rush, or Metcalf having his breakout game, Pittsburgh’s top players are ready to rise to the occasion and make this game one to remember.
