Watch: Patriots WR JuJu Smith-Schuster makes wild catch on 'TNF'

New England Patriots WR JuJu Smith-Schuster Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Patriots WR JuJu Smith-Schuster makes incredible catch over Steelers defender on 'TNF'

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 12/7/23

While much of the football world turned up its collective nose at Week 14's "Thursday Night Football" contest, New England Patriots wideout JuJu Smith-Schuster rewarded those who tuned in early.

On the Patriots' opening drive, Smith-Schuster came down with an incredible 37-yard reception from quarterback Bailey Zappe, catching it over Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee.

Big gains for @TeamJuJu! ➡️#NEvsPIT on Prime Video
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/0GJemAElFj pic.twitter.com/wXl4O31f6m
— NFL (@NFL) December 8, 2023

Five plays later, Zappe connected with running back Ezekiel Elliott for an 11-yard touchdown.

FEED ZEKE! The @Patriots take an early lead in Pittsburgh. #NEvsPIT on Prime Video
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/0GJemAElFj pic.twitter.com/az6pNxbQd5
— NFL (@NFL) December 8, 2023

It was quite the start for the Patriots' offense, which failed to cross the Los Angeles Chargers' 30-yard line in an embarrassing 6-0 Week 13 loss. Furthermore, they're working short-handed as Smith-Schuster is one of only three active WRs suiting up for the Patriots on Thursday night, joining Jalen Reagor and Tyquan Thornton.

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