The Pittsburgh Steeler overcame early mistakes and a lackluster first half offensive performance to defeat the Washington Redskins at home 23-6.

The real story of the game was the Steelers defense. Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis, who had been running roughshod over opposing defenses, was not a factor. Jason Campbell, who has shown himself to be one of the NFL’s rising stars this year, wilted under a relentless Steelers pass rush that sacked him 7 times.

On offense the Steelers saw the return of Willie Parker and Santoino Holmes, although it lost Ben Roethlisberger at the half. Byron Leftwich played extremely well in relief, however, leading the Steelers to two touchdown scores.

(Its 3:00 am in my part of the word. Click here for full Steelers-Redskins analysis.)