Chris Carter of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, hosts the Locked on Steelers podcast.

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost their first game of the season 17-14 in a slow-paced defensive game against the New England Patriots. Mitch Trubisky struggled with only a single touchdown drive and his first interception of the season while not seeing the field and limiting the offense. Between him and Matt Canada, the pace of the Steelers offense doomed the team on top of Gunner Olszewski's fumble, Cameron Sutton's dropped interception, and the Steelers' run defense that faded late in the game.

Key observations show that Najee Harris, Diontae Johnson, Pat Freiermuth, Chase Claypool and George Pickens were open throughout the game. But was the problem Trubisky, or Matt Canada?

In addition, the Steelers were unable to get a sack against Mac Jones without T.J. Watt. But with Minkah Fitzpatrick's interception, was the defense a problem? Or was it good enough to win?

And with the Cleveland Browns coming up Thursday, when will be the time for Kenny Pickett to start? Losses from the Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns lessened the blow, but the Steelers have to improve to win the AFC North.

CALL INTO THE SHOW AT 412-223-6644 or if international, e-mail your audio message to LOSTEELERSTOPICBAG@GMAIL.COM

Follow Chris Carter on Twitter: @CarterCritiques.

Theme music is 'Soul Kick' by Ceddy P, and 'Too Easy' by Nerdboy. Both from their label Renaissance Music. Find more from their label here.

This show is part of the Locked on Podcast Network.

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