In a tightly contested matchup, the New England Patriots topped the Pittsburgh Steelers 24-17 in Week 2 of the 2026 season. With both teams looking to establish their footing early in the season, the stakes were high, and the Patriots delivered a statement win at home. Drake Maye was the star of the show for New England, throwing for 280 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to lead the offense effectively. Hunter Henry emerged as his favorite target, racking up 112 receiving yards and consistently making crucial catches to keep drives alive. Meanwhile, Rico Dowdle led the Steelers' ground game with a modest 29 yards, struggling to find consistent running room against a tough Patriots defense. Defensively, the Patriots were impactful, with Gabe Jacas making his presence felt with 1.5 sacks, disrupting the Steelers' passing game. Despite a solid interception from Jaquan Brisker for Pittsburgh, the turning point came when Maye connected with Henry for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, ultimately sealing the victory for New England and showcasing their ability to perform under pressure.