Penguins Michel Therrien had a typical weekend for a Pittsburgher in September – he went to three football games in three days.

Therrien attended the Chartiers Valley-Yough high school game Friday night; traveled to Happy Valley to watch Penn State take on Oregon State Saturday; and joined the throng at Heinz Field for the Steelers’ opener against Houston on Sunday.

He was a special guest on the field for pre-game warmups at both the Penn State and Steelers games.

“It was an amazing experience to watch all these levels of football,” said Therrien, who grew up in Montreal and played hockey and baseball as a youngster. “The fans are so passionate. They really get behind their teams. It’s really great to see.”

Therrien had a chance to speak with Steelers coach Mike Tomlin before the 38-17 win over Houston.  He’d written Tomlin a note offering best wishes for the season earlier in the week.

Tomlin, a big Penguins’ fan, was in attendance for many of the Pen’ playoff games during the club’s run to the Stanley Cup finals.

“I got a chance to speak with Mike and wish him good luck in person,” Therrien said. “It was an amazing experience to be down on the field before the game, to see all those guys, and it was great to have the Steelers open the season with a big win.”