Steelers vs Jaguars kicked off the 2025 NFL preseason with an engaging matchup at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida.
The Pittsburgh Steelers emerged victorious over the Jacksonville Jaguars with a final score of 31-25, showcasing depth in their quarterback room and resilient defense in a game filled with notable moments.
Steelers vs Jaguars Game Overview
In this Steelers vs Jaguars preseason opener on August 9, 2025, both teams aimed to evaluate rookies and backups while limiting starter exposure. Pittsburgh’s reserves, particularly at quarterback, drove the offense effectively, while Jacksonville highlighted special teams prowess and dual-threat talent. The game, starting at 7 p.m. ET, drew attention for its competitive back-and-forth, though penalties hampered the Jaguars’ efforts.
Coach Mike Tomlin of the Steelers emphasized post-game that the outing provided valuable reps without major setbacks, describing it as a “productive night” for player evaluation.
Jaguars head coach Liam Coen noted self-inflicted errors like penalties as areas for improvement, stressing the need to “stop beating ourselves.”
Key Performances in Steelers vs Jaguars
Skylar Thompson stood out for the Steelers, completing passes for over 200 yards and tossing three touchdowns, including a 26-yard strike to Ke’Shawn Williams that extended Pittsburgh’s lead late in the fourth quarter.
Mason Rudolph started efficiently, going 9-for-10 with a 19-yard touchdown pass to Darnell Washington on the opening drive.
For the Jaguars, rookie kicker Cam Little stole the show with a jaw-dropping 70-yard field goal at halftime, which would have set an NFL record in a regular-season context.
He also connected on field goals from 41, 40, and 51 yards. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence, in limited action, completed 6 of 7 passes for 43 yards on the opening drive.
Rookie Travis Hunter, the No. 2 overall pick, impressed in his dual-role debut, contributing on offense with two receptions and defensively at cornerback across multiple snaps.
Defensively, the Steelers forced key stops, with players like Cole Holcomb disrupting passes in his return from injury. Jacksonville’s Dawuane Smoot and Danny Striggow each notched sacks, adding pressure on Pittsburgh’s line.
Score Breakdown and Tables for Steelers vs Jaguars
The Steelers vs Jaguars contest saw Pittsburgh build an early lead before Jacksonville mounted comebacks, but the visitors held on. Here’s the quarter-by-quarter breakdown:
Scoring plays included:
- Jaguars: 41-yard FG by Little (3-0)
- Steelers: 19-yard TD pass Rudolph to Washington (7-3)
- Jaguars: 40-yard FG by Little (7-6)
- Steelers: 3-yard TD pass Thompson to Hurleman (14-6)
- Jaguars: 70-yard FG by Little (14-9, halftime)
- Jaguars: 11-yard TD pass Mullens to Irwin (15-14, missed extra point implied)
- Steelers: 9-yard TD pass Thompson to Sermon (21-15)
- Steelers: 36-yard FG by Sauls (24-15)
- Jaguars: 8-yard TD run by Tuten (24-22)
- Steelers: 26-yard TD pass Thompson to Williams (31-22)
- Jaguars: 51-yard FG by Little (31-25)
|
Quarter |
Steelers | Jaguars |
| 1st | 7 | 3 |
| 2nd | 7 | 6 |
| 3rd | 7 | 6 |
| 4th | 10 | 10 |
| Total | 31 | 25 |
Analysis of Steelers vs Jaguars Preseason Implications
The Steelers vs Jaguars game underscored Pittsburgh’s quarterback depth, with Thompson’s performance potentially influencing roster decisions. For Jacksonville, Little’s kicking accuracy and Hunter’s versatility offer positive building blocks, though penalties (eight for 49 yards) remain a concern.
Both teams escaped largely injury-free, with only minor evaluations needed for players like Steelers’ Cameron McCutcheon. This matchup sets a tone for upcoming preseason games, focusing on refinement ahead of the regular season.
Looking Ahead After Steelers vs Jaguars
As the Steelers vs Jaguars preseason dust settles, Pittsburgh prepares for their next test against the Buffalo Bills, aiming to build on offensive momentum. Jacksonville faces the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with opportunities to address penalties and integrate rookies further. Analysts note that while preseason results don’t predict regular-season success, standout individual efforts like Thompson’s and Little’s could shape depth charts. Fans should watch for roster cuts and injury updates in the coming weeks, as both teams refine strategies for a competitive AFC campaign.
Disclaimer: This article synthesizes unverified reporting from various sources as of August 10, 2025, 7 p.m. ET game time. Information may evolve, and readers are encouraged to verify details through official team channels.
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