Patriots defeat Steelers 20-3 in home opener

New England Patriots opened their home schedule with a 20-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, moving to a 1-1 record. Quarterback Drake Maye completed 14 of 22 passes for 208 yards, throwing his fourth interception of the season but avoiding any touchdowns. The Patriots took an early lead with a 7-0 ground score and a 30-yard pass to rookie tight end Eli Raridon before he left with a thigh injury.

Wide receiver Romeo Doubs, a recent free-agent signing, caught three passes for 96 yards, including a 63-yard reception that set up a Patriots touchdown. Running back TreVeyon Henderson contributed 76 rushing yards and a 39-yard touchdown run.

Pittsburgh quarterback Aaron Rodgers finished 23 of 39 for 187 yards with two turnovers and no touchdowns. The Steelers were limited to 56 yards on a field-goal drive before halftime and managed only 81 rushing yards on 20 carries.

New England’s defense applied pressure, recording four sacks and forcing a fumble that led to a defensive touchdown by linebacker Elijah Ponder. Safety Kevin Byard III and interior lineman Christian Barmore also made key plays.

Patriots kicker Andy Borregares was 2-of-3 on field-goal attempts, converting from 30 and 45 yards while missing a 47-yard try. Punter Mitch Wishnowsky averaged 46.3 yards per punt, with one punt downed inside the 20-yard line.