NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Ben Roethlisberger torched New Orleans’ defense for 148 yards and two touchdown passes on his first two series of this preseason, then got the rest of the game off while the Steelers rolled to a 27-14 victory over the Saints on Friday night.
Former North Rowan High School star Javon Hargrave, a rookie defensive tackle, had three tackles, including a sack of Saints’ quarterback Garrett Grayson in the third period.
Roethlisberger, who sat out of the first two preseason games, opened by leading a 14-play, 76-yard drive on which he converted two third downs and found tight end Jesse James for a 5-yard score. His next series was highlighted by his 57-yard scoring pass down the left sideline to Antonio Brown, also playing for the first time this preseason. The Steelers star finished with 12 completions on 17 attempts.
Pittsburgh running back Le’Veon Bell also made his preseason debut, gaining 21 yards on three carries, but his lost fumble in the second quarter — forced by cornerback Delvin Breaux.