/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56607433/usa_today_10235258.0.jpg)
Oh look, another Watt making an impact in the NFL.
With older brothers J.J. and Derek already playing on Sundays, former Wisconsin Badgers outside linebacker T.J. Watt debuted on Sunday for the Pittsburgh Steelers with two sacks, six tackles, and an interception in a 21–18 win over the Cleveland Browns.
Last week, the Steelers announced that Watt would start over veteran James Harrison. It looks like the move has paid off for Pittsburgh.
Working against fellow former Badger and Canton-bound Browns left tackle Joe Thomas, Watt worked up field and spun toward rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer. Kizer didn’t get rid of the ball quickly, and Watt quickly reached his destination to register his first career sack.
Kizer sacked by TJ Watt! #Steelers pic.twitter.com/wKyNwST18Q
— Blitzburgh (@Steel_Curtain4) September 10, 2017
Then, there was time to celebrate.
Do your dance, @_TJWatt. pic.twitter.com/pJv4R2w5ig
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) September 10, 2017
After Watt added his second sack, the Steelers announced that it was the first time a player in their organization recorded two in his first NFL game since the statistic became “official.”
T.J. Watt is the 1st #Steelers player with 2.0 sacks or more in their NFL debut since sacks became an official statistic in 1982. pic.twitter.com/5sc7TnpGHH
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) September 10, 2017
With just about 90 seconds left in the third quarter, Watt dropped back in coverage. Kizer underthrew his pass to the outside, and guess who was there?
WHAT A PLAY!@_TJWatt with the INT!! #HereWeGo #PITvsCLE pic.twitter.com/XE6JyXswcK
— NFL (@NFL) September 10, 2017
J.J. was playing at the same time, but Derek Watt—who plays with Melvin Gordon for the Los Angeles Chargers—was watching his younger brother. San Diego will play the Denver Broncos on Monday night.
Let's Go!!! 2 Sacks & an Interception! @_TJWatt is Dominating! #WatchOut
— Derek Watt (@DerekWatt34) September 10, 2017
Check out Watt’s post-game interview, as well as the fun stat below.
#LIVE: Missi catches up with @_TJWatt after our win in Cleveland. #HereWeGo https://t.co/LkOmXvgqM3
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) September 10, 2017
T.J. Watt: 2.0 sacks, 1 INT in his first game
— NFL Research (@NFLResearch) September 10, 2017
J.J. Watt has never had 2+ sacks and an INT in a single NFL game (89 games, inc. playoffs)
Just don’t ask #PackersTwitter about the organization not selecting Watt in the first round. Seriously.