Pickett near perfect on opening drive as Steelers defeat Bucs 27-17 in preseason opener

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Pittsburgh Steelers starter Kenny Pickett, who worked one series, completed six of seven passes for 70 yards on a 10-play, 83-yard drive and finished with a 33-yard TD throw to George Pickens during Friday's preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Pickett was sharp, but the Bucs only started one regular on defense.

Mason Rudolph tossed a 67-yard TD pass to Calvin Austin III for Pittsburgh, which also used Mitchell Trubisky and Tanner Morgan.

As for Tampa, Baker Mayfield continued his bid to follow Tom Brady as Tampa Bay's starting quarterback and jumpstart his career with a solid, if not overly impressive preseason debut for the Buccaneers in a 27-17 loss.

The competition between the 2018 No. 1 overall pick and Kyle Trask to win the starting job that opened when Brady retired after last season has been described as too close to call.

Mayfield posted better statistics in 1 1/2 quarters against the Steelers, however it's always difficult to assess performances in outings during which starters from both teams play sparingly while coaching staffs take extended looks at backups and young players hoping to make the final roster.

INJURIES

Steelers reserve linebacker Chapelle Russell (knee) left in the first half and did not return. Defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (ankle) departed in the second half.

Buccaneers Don Gardner left in the fourth quarter with a hamstring injury.

UP NEXT

Steelers: Host the Buffalo Bills next Saturday night.

Buccaneers: Travel to New York for two days of joint practices before next Saturday's preseason game against the Jets

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