Bengals 33-31 Steelers: Flacco Leads Comeback in AFC North Thriller

In a dramatic AFC North showdown, the Cincinnati Bengals edged out the Pittsburgh Steelers 33-31 on Thursday Night Football at Paycor Stadium. Quarterback Joe Flacco orchestrated a late-game rally, culminating in a decisive 45-yard field goal by kicker Evan McPherson with just seven seconds remaining. This victory improves the Bengals’ record to 3-4, while the Steelers drop to 4-2.

Game Highlights

The contest featured a compelling duel between veteran quarterbacks Flacco and Aaron Rodgers. Flacco completed 31 of 47 passes for 342 yards and three touchdowns, connecting with wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Chase set a franchise record with 16 receptions for 161 yards and a touchdown, while Higgins added six catches for 96 yards and a score.

Rodgers, now 41 years old, continued to defy age with a stellar performance. He completed 23 of 34 passes for 249 yards and four touchdowns. Tight end Pat Freiermuth was a standout performer, catching five passes for 111 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Jaylen Warren contributed 127 rushing yards on 16 carries.

Defensively, Bengals cornerback Chidobe Awuzie made a crucial interception in the fourth quarter, setting up McPherson’s game-winning field goal. McPherson had earlier made a 49-yard field goal in the second quarter, showcasing his reliability under pressure.

Key Statistics

Bengals Offense

• Joe Flacco: 31 completions on 47 attempts, 342 yards, 3 touchdowns
• Ja’Marr Chase: 16 receptions, 161 yards, 1 touchdown
• Tee Higgins: 6 receptions, 96 yards, 1 touchdown
• Noah Fant: 1 reception, 5 yards, 1 touchdown
• Evan McPherson: 2 field goals (49 yards, 45 yards)

Steelers Offense

• Aaron Rodgers: 23 completions on 34 attempts, 249 yards, 4 touchdowns
• Pat Freiermuth: 5 receptions, 111 yards, 2 touchdowns
• Jaylen Warren: 16 carries, 127 yards

Defense

• Chidobe Awuzie (Bengals): 1 interception

Playoff Impact

This victory enhances the Bengals’ position in the AFC North, keeping them within striking distance of the division leaders. The Steelers, now 4-2, will need to regroup and focus on upcoming divisional games to maintain their playoff aspirations.

What’s Next for the Bengals and Steelers

The Bengals will face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 8, a crucial divisional matchup that could have significant implications for the AFC North standings. The Steelers, on the other hand, will look to bounce back as they prepare for their next game.