Winners
Ryan Clark - the largest monkey this team has had in years has been taken off the collective backs of every defensive player thanks to Clark's third quarter interception. While the play can probably be attributed more to a great pass rush by Cameron Heyward, Clark represents the rarest of rare things; a takeaway. Would have been nice if he caught the second one, though.
Ben Roethlisberger - His most commanding performance to date, and third consecutive game in which he's showed an obvious level of improvement. Roethlisberger did not commit a turnover for the first time this season. He finished 23-for-30 (76.6 percent) for 264 yards and a touchdown. Antonio Brown dropped his best throw of the day, a perfect back shoulder toss right at the pylon that would have been a touchdown.
Vince Williams - We've savaged him more than a few times, but he was locked into his assignments in this game. The Jets clearly didn't respect him, rarely putting a body on him in their running game, counting on misdirection to let Williams run himself out of the play. He made them pay for it. It signified some of the best Steelers defense of the season.
Antonio Brown - Ladies and gentlemen, heading into the late games, Antonio Brown is your NFL leader in receptions. He has 30 catches in his last three games, and after burning Antonio Cromartie on a deep route, drew a pass interference that set up three points.
Losers
Kelvin Beachum - This is nit-picking, and one we bet we'll want to go back on after review, but Beachum didn't appear to play well. Three penalties in the game, along with some ok pass protection. Sadly, it didn't seem the left tackle position was upgraded much. To his credit, he was facing an outstanding Jets defensive line in his first start, but the penalties stand out.
More from Behind the Steel Curtain:
- Steelers smack Jets: Postgame news and updates
- Steelers vs. Jets final score: Plays get made in Steelers' 19-6 win over Jets
- Le'Veon Bell injury: Steelers rookie running back returns to the field
- Brett Keisel injury: Steelers defensive end out, questionable to return
- The Steelers have their first takeaway of the season