Atlanta Falcons

Mike Tomlin didn’t waver in his decision to play quarterback Kenny Pickett and other Pittsburgh starters even when Atlanta coach Arthur Smith countered with his backups.  “I just think it’s difficult to box without sparring,” Tomlin said. Pickett and the Steelers scored an early knockout.  Pickett led two touchdown drives and showed he and the Pittsburgh starters are ready for real games as the Steelers overpowered the Falcons 24-0 on Thursday night in the final preseason game for both teams.  Atlanta: Hosts Carolina on Sept. 10 in the first of two home games to open the regular season.