PITTSBURGH — Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler and Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown went to battle in what best can be scored as a draw in New England’s 27-16 win over Pittsburgh.
Butler landed the first strike with a first-quarter interception, and Brown responded with a 51-yard catch in the second quarter.
Butler allowed five catches on nine targets for 94 yards with an interception when matched up with Brown. The Patriots corner allowed five catches on 12 targets and two pass breakups overall, while Brown caught seven passes on 11 targets for 106 yards in the game.
Butler and Brown each showed why they’re considered among the best in the NFL at their positions. And it was an improvement for Butler over Week 1 of the 2015 season, when he allowed over 100 yards to Brown.
“He’s one of the best, if not the best,” Butler said. “He’s one or two. He has no flaws.”
Butler either mocked or paid homage to Brown by stealing the receiver’s dance after his interception.
“I met Antonio Brown once before,” Butler said. “I told him I like the dance. I showed him, he laughed. So, I just thought it would be fun today. We got tangled up, and he started laughing, so it’s much love for each other.”
Thumbnail photo via Jason Bridge/USA TODAY Sports Images
