Ezekiel Elliott and JuJu Smith-Schuster Empower Patriots Offense in Win

Elliott and Smith-Schuster help the Patriots secure a win against the Steelers in a game that was missing key players.

Elliott expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, acknowledging the hard work they put in during the week and the payoff they received. Despite the absence of key players, Smith-Schuster and Elliott were instrumental in propelling the Patriots' offense. Smith-Schuster made a triumphant return to his first NFL home, finishing the night with four catches for 90 yards. Meanwhile, Elliott delivered an impressive performance with 68 rushing yards and seven catches for 72 receiving yards, including a touchdown.

Elliott's touchdown marked the beginning of the scoring, as he caught an 11-yard pass from Bailey Zappe, setting the tone for the game. Smith-Schuster also played a pivotal role in setting up New England's third touchdown, making a 28-yard catch that put the offense in a favorable position. Ultimately, their contributions were essential in securing the team's second road win of the season.

The victory was especially meaningful for Smith-Schuster, who battled through an ankle injury to make significant plays for the team. With several receivers missing from the lineup, Smith-Schuster's performance was crucial in the passing game. Elliott commended Smith-Schuster's contributions, acknowledging the significance of his performance in the game.

Moreover, the win was a much-needed boost for the Patriots, who had been seeking a breakthrough after a series of losses. Elliott emphasized the importance of building momentum and regaining the winning feeling to propel the team forward. The team's resilience and determination were evident in their performance, as they overcame challenges and secured a crucial victory.

Amidst the victory, the Patriots made significant roster moves, elevating quarterback Malik Cunningham and running back Kevin Harris from the practice squad. Additionally, veteran DeVante Parker was a surprise inactive for the game, highlighting the team's adaptability in the face of unexpected changes.

Looking ahead, Patriots coach Bill Belichick is set to make an appearance as the guest picker on ESPN's "College GameDay" for the Army-Navy game at Gillette Stadium. Belichick's personal connection to the Naval Academy adds a special significance to his participation in the show, reflecting his deep-rooted ties to the institution.

In another roster move, the Patriots claimed linebacker Christian Elliss off waivers, adding a seasoned player with special teams expertise to their lineup. Elliss' addition further strengthens the team's roster, showcasing their commitment to enhancing their capabilities and performance.