Bengals vs Pittsburgh Steelers: A Deep Dive into Player Stats and Performances

The rivalry between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pittsburgh Steelers is one of the most storied in the NFL. These AFC North matchups are always intense, physical, and filled with drama. When these two teams clash, it’s not just about the final score—it’s about the individual performances that shape the game. In this blog, we’ll break down the player stats from their most recent matchup, analyzing key performances and how they influenced the outcome of the game.

Quarterback Showdown: Joe Burrow vs. Kenny Pickett

The quarterback position is always under the microscope, and this game was no exception. Joe Burrow, the Bengals' franchise QB, faced off against Kenny Pickett, the Steelers' young signal-caller looking to prove himself in the league. Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals):

• Passing Yards: 278
• Completion Percentage: 68.5%
• Touchdowns: 2
• Interceptions: 1
• Passer Rating: 94.7
• Rushing Yards: 15

Burrow had a solid outing, showcasing his poise and accuracy. He connected with his star receivers, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, for big plays, including a 40-yard touchdown pass to Chase in the second quarter. However, the Steelers' defense managed to pressure him throughout the game, forcing an interception in the third quarter that shifted momentum temporarily. Kenny Pickett (Pittsburgh Steelers):

• Passing Yards: 220
• Completion Percentage: 62.3%
• Touchdowns: 1
• Interceptions: 0
• Passer Rating: 88.4
• Rushing Yards: 25

Pickett had a steady performance, avoiding turnovers and making key throws when it mattered most. His touchdown pass to Diontae Johnson in the fourth quarter kept the Steelers in the game. While his stats weren’t eye-popping, Pickett showed maturity and composure against a tough Bengals defense.

Running Backs: Mixon and Harris Lead the Ground Game

The running game is crucial in these divisional matchups, as both teams look to establish the run to open up play-action opportunities. Joe Mixon (Cincinnati Bengals):

• Rushing Yards: 85
• Yards Per Carry: 4.3
• Touchdowns: 1
• Receptions: 3
• Receiving Yards: 22

Mixon was a workhorse for the Bengals, grinding out tough yards and finding the end zone on a 10-yard run in the first half. His ability to break tackles and keep the chains moving was critical in keeping the Steelers' defense honest. Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers):

• Rushing Yards: 72
• Yards Per Carry: 3.8
• Touchdowns: 0
• Receptions: 4
• Receiving Yards: 35

Harris had a decent outing, but the Bengals' defensive front limited his impact. He was effective in the passing game, however, providing Pickett with a reliable check-down option.

Wide Receivers: Star Power on Display

Both teams boast elite receiving talent, and this game was a showcase for some of the NFL’s best pass-catchers. Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals):

• Receptions: 6
• Receiving Yards: 112
• Touchdowns: 1
• Longest Reception: 40 yards

Chase was a game-changer, as usual. His speed and route-running ability were on full display, and his 40-yard touchdown catch was a highlight-reel play. The Steelers struggled to contain him, especially in one-on-one situations. Tee Higgins (Cincinnati Bengals):

• Receptions: 5
• Receiving Yards: 78
• Touchdowns: 0
• Longest Reception: 25 yards

Higgins was a reliable target for Burrow, making several key catches on third downs to extend drives. His size and physicality made him a tough matchup for the Steelers' secondary. Diontae Johnson (Pittsburgh Steelers):

• Receptions: 7
• Receiving Yards: 89
• Touchdowns: 1
• Longest Reception: 30 yards

Johnson was Pickett’s go-to receiver, consistently finding openings in the Bengals' defense. His touchdown catch in the fourth quarter was a testament to his route-running and chemistry with Pickett. George Pickens (Pittsburgh Steelers):

• Receptions: 4
• Receiving Yards: 56
• Touchdowns: 0
• Longest Reception: 20 yards

Pickens showed flashes of his potential, making a couple of tough catches in traffic. While he didn’t find the end zone, his ability to create separation was evident.

Tight Ends: Underrated Contributors

Tight ends often play a crucial role in these matchups, both as receivers and blockers. Irv Smith Jr. (Cincinnati Bengals):

• Receptions: 3
• Receiving Yards: 34
• Touchdowns: 0

Smith Jr. was a reliable safety valve for Burrow, particularly on short-yardage situations. His blocking also helped spring Mixon for some of his bigger runs. Pat Freiermuth (Pittsburgh Steelers):

• Receptions: 5
• Receiving Yards: 45
• Touchdowns: 0

Freiermuth was a key target for Pickett, especially on intermediate routes. His ability to move the chains kept the Steelers' offense on schedule.

Defensive Standouts: Game-Changing Plays

Defense often decides these gritty AFC North battles, and this game was no different. Trey Hendrickson (Cincinnati Bengals):

• Tackles: 6
• Sacks: 2
• Tackles for Loss: 3
• QB Hits: 4

Hendrickson was a force off the edge, consistently pressuring Pickett and disrupting the Steelers' passing game. His two sacks were critical in stalling Pittsburgh’s drives. Logan Wilson (Cincinnati Bengals):

• Tackles: 9
• Interceptions: 1
• Pass Deflections: 2

Wilson was all over the field, making tackles in the run game and coming up with a crucial interception in the third quarter that halted a Steelers scoring opportunity. T.J. Watt (Pittsburgh Steelers):

• Tackles: 7
• Sacks: 1.5
• Tackles for Loss: 2
• QB Hits: 3

Watt was his usual disruptive self, making life difficult for Burrow and the Bengals' offensive line. His ability to create pressure was a key factor in keeping the game close. Minkah Fitzpatrick (Pittsburgh Steelers):

• Tackles: 8
• Interceptions: 1
• Pass Deflections: 1

Fitzpatrick was a ballhawk in the secondary, coming up with a timely interception that gave the Steelers a chance to rally in the second half.

Special Teams: The Unsung Heroes

Special teams can often be the difference in close games, and this matchup was no exception. Evan McPherson (Cincinnati Bengals):

• Field Goals Made: 2/2
• Longest Field Goal: 48 yards
• Extra Points Made: 2/2

McPherson was perfect on the day, including a clutch 48-yard field goal in the fourth quarter that extended the Bengals' lead. Chris Boswell (Pittsburgh Steelers):

• Field Goals Made: 1/1
• Longest Field Goal: 42 yards
• Extra Points Made: 1/1

Boswell was reliable as always, but the Steelers' offense struggled to get him more opportunities.

Key Takeaways

The Bengals emerged victorious in this hard-fought battle, thanks to standout performances from Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and their defense. However, the Steelers showed resilience, with Kenny Pickett and Diontae Johnson keeping them in the game until the final whistle. This matchup once again highlighted the intensity of the AFC North rivalry. Both teams have star power and depth, making every game between them a must-watch event. As the season progresses, these individual performances will continue to shape the narrative of their respective teams. Whether you’re a Bengals fan, a Steelers supporter, or just an NFL enthusiast, this game had everything—big plays, defensive stands, and the kind of drama that makes football the most exciting sport in the world. Here’s to the next chapter in this storied rivalry!