Falcons suffer disappointing loss to Steelers in Week 1 matchup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 8:15 PM
Last updated Sep 13, 2026
The Falcons fell to the Steelers in Pittsburgh on September 13, 2026, in their season opener. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush struggled significantly during the game, raising questions about the decision to start him. Coach Kevin Stefanski's choice to play an injured Rush instead of Jack Strand was a focal point of criticism. Despite the defeat, the Falcons' defense showed promise, highlighting the need for improvement in quarterback play as the season progresses.
- •Falcons lose to Steelers in Week 1 at Acrisure Stadium.
- •Backup quarterback Cooper Rush delivered a poor performance.
- •Coach Kevin Stefanski faced scrutiny for starting an injured Rush.
- •The Falcons' defense displayed strong performance despite the loss.
- •The team will need to address quarterback issues moving forward.
- 8:15 PMYahoo Sports — Falcons vs Steelers Week 1 postgame show: QB play tanks a winnable game
"The Falcons fell to the Steelers in a frustrating Week 1 loss punctuated by a horrible performance by backup quarterback Cooper Rush.
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