Plays of the Game: Germie Bernard scores first NFL touchdown to lift Steelers past Buccaneers

Germie Bernard couldn’t have picked a much better moment to score his first NFL touchdown.

With the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers tied at 19 in overtime, Bernard capped Pittsburgh’s opening possession of the extra period with a six-yard touchdown reception from Aaron Rodgers, giving the Steelers a 26-19 lead and putting the pressure back on Tampa Bay.

The score was the finishing touch on a remarkable comeback for Pittsburgh, which had trailed 16-3 late in the third quarter before finding its rhythm offensively.

It was also a fitting conclusion to what had already been a breakout performance for Bernard.

Germ! Extension! Six! @oti_germie pic.twitter.com/6AZHDzh8uT

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) October 18, 2026

Making the most of his opportunity

With injuries leaving Pittsburgh shorthanded at wide receiver, Bernard was asked to take on a larger role against Tampa Bay. He responded with 11 receptions for 87 yards and the game-winning touchdown, leading the Steelers in catches while finishing just behind DK Metcalf in receiving yards.

Bernard’s contributions weren’t limited to overtime, either. He helped Pittsburgh move the chains throughout the afternoon, including several important receptions during the first half when the offense struggled to establish any consistency.

However, his biggest moment came on the Steelers’ 12-play, 70-yard overtime possession.

Facing second-and-six from the Tampa Bay 6-yard line with 3:20 remaining in overtime, Rodgers found Bernard for the touchdown. Chris Boswell added the extra point, giving Pittsburgh a seven-point advantage.

The Steelers’ defense subsequently forced a turnover on downs, sealing the victory.

A memorable first touchdown

There were plenty of reasons for Pittsburgh to be encouraged by Bernard’s performance. The Steelers entered Sunday’s game without several of their regular receiving options, creating questions about how Rodgers would distribute the football against Todd Bowles‘ defense.

Bernard provided an answer, demonstrating that he could handle an expanded workload while making himself available when his quarterback needed a dependable target.

His first NFL touchdown will be remembered for more than the milestone itself. It gave Pittsburgh the lead in overtime, capped a comeback from a 13-point deficit and helped the Steelers leave Tampa Bay with a 26-19 victory.

That’s a pretty memorable way to get into the end zone for the first time.