When the Pittsburgh Steelers moved up in the second round to draft Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard at No. 47 overall, the expectation was they were getting a receiver who could create after the catch, which is huge in first-year head coach Mike McCarthy’s West Coast-style offense.
So far, that’s what Bernard has shown in a Steelers uniform.
After ripping off a big 25-yard catch and run in Week 1 of the preseason against the Green Bay Packers, Bernard added to his after-the-catch exploits Thursday night in Buffalo. He broke a tackle on a quick throw from Will Howard and raced into the end zone, giving Pittsburgh a 7-3 lead one play after a muffed punt by the Bills.
Take a look at the play.
Bernard broke three tackles in his NFL debut against the Packers two weeks ago, and now he’s added another one to his resume.
The Steelers initially appeared to be set up for a run, but Howard checked out of the play against a loaded box and went with a quick throw to his right to Bernard. The rookie rewarded Howard for the decision, breaking Maxwell Hairston’s tackle to get around the Bills starting cornerback and into the end zone.
Coming out of Alabama, Bernard was considered one of the most pro-ready receivers in the draft. He’s had a nice start to his Steelers career, though it’s had its occasional bumps in the road with some mistakes in training camp that has led to some frustration from quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
He’s still firmly in a battle for the WR3 role with Roman Wilson, who is not dressed for tonight’s game, giving Bernard a major opportunity.
