In a thrilling NFL showdown that left fans on the edge of their seats, Joe Flacco emerged as the unlikely hero for the Cincinnati Bengals, outdueling the legendary Aaron Rodgers in a 33-31 nail-biter against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Just over a week after joining the Bengals, the 40-year-old quarterback—now on his sixth NFL team—delivered a masterful performance, throwing for 342 yards and three touchdowns. But this game was far from a one-man show. Ja'Marr Chase shattered franchise records with 16 catches for 161 yards and a touchdown, while Tee Higgins made the game-defining play, hauling in a deep pass from Flacco and sliding down to secure the clock, setting up Evan McPherson’s 36-yard game-winning field goal. And this is the part most people miss: despite Aaron Rodgers’ last-ditch Hail Mary attempt, cornerback D.J. Ivey’s clutch deflection near the goal line sealed Cincinnati’s victory, keeping their season alive.
The Steelers struck first, with Rodgers connecting on a 10-yard touchdown to Jonnu Smith, but the Bengals responded with a flurry. Flacco found Chase for an 8-yard score, Jordan Battle intercepted Rodgers’ ill-advised deep ball, and Higgins added a 29-yard touchdown. DJ Turner II’s strip of DK Metcalf—a defensive highlight of the season—led to another McPherson field goal just before halftime. The second half was a back-and-forth spectacle, with Rodgers firing touchdowns to Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, only for Flacco to answer each time, culminating in a Noah Fant touchdown. Even after Freiermuth’s 68-yard score, Flacco’s poise and the Bengals’ resilience prevailed.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While Flacco’s performance was nothing short of remarkable, the Steelers’ defense raised serious red flags. Chase Brown, who had averaged just 2.7 yards per carry this season, exploded for 108 yards on 11 carries, exposing gaping holes in Pittsburgh’s run defense. The secondary struggled equally, with Darius Slay, Joey Porter Jr., and Jalen Ramsey all getting burned at critical moments. The Steelers now rank near the bottom of the league in yards allowed, and their pass rush has been underwhelming. Is this a temporary slump, or a deeper systemic issue?
On the flip side, the Bengals’ defense, despite being outgained, came up big when it mattered most. Battle’s interception and Turner’s strip were game-changers, proving that even without Trey Hendrickson, Cincinnati can force turnovers. Yet, their inconsistency is undeniable—a concern moving forward.
Flacco and Rodgers put on a quarterback clinic, but the real story lies in the defensive breakdowns and clutch moments that decided the game. Flacco’s chemistry with Chase and Higgins was astonishing, especially given his short time with the team. Chase, in particular, solidified his superstar status, dominating routes and showcasing his unmatched athleticism. Rodgers, meanwhile, was nearly flawless outside of two costly mistakes, joining Patrick Mahomes as the only QBs in the last decade to throw four touchdowns to tight ends in a single game.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With the Steelers’ defense in disarray and the Bengals’ offense firing on all cylinders, is Cincinnati now a legitimate playoff contender, or is this just a fleeting moment of brilliance? And for Pittsburgh, can they address their defensive woes in time for their Week 8 showdown with the Packers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Looking ahead, the Bengals host the winless Jets, riding a wave of momentum, while the Steelers face a daunting challenge against Green Bay on Sunday Night Football. One thing’s for sure: this game has reshaped the narrative for both teams, leaving us all eager to see what’s next.
