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Cincinnati’s Thursday night thriller over Pittsburgh was full of dramatic turns, but it was Ja’Marr Chase who etched his name into the highlight reel — setting a franchise record with 16 catches for 161 yards and scoring a touchdown in a tight 33–31 Bengals win.
Here’s a breakdown of the night’s biggest winners and losers:
🏆 Winners
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Ja’Marr Chase & Tee Higgins: Both receivers broke out offensively. Chase’s record-setting performance and Higgins’ 96 yards and a score gave Cincinnati’s passing game a much-needed jolt.
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Joe Flacco: The veteran quarterback silenced critics by going 31-of-47 for 342 yards and three touchdowns, leading Cincinnati’s comeback in prime time.
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Evan McPherson: “Money Mac” delivered again — all his field goal attempts counted, including the clutch 36-yarder with just seven seconds left.
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Chase Brown / Bengals Rushing Attack: Brown went off for 108 yards on 11 carries (9.8 YPC), offering balance to an attack too often one-dimensional this season.
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DJ Turner & Jordan Battle (Defense): Turner and Battle each snagged interceptions that swung momentum, fueling the Bengals’ surge.
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Bengals’ Offensive Line: Conceded just two sacks to a strong Steelers front, giving Flacco time and even creating running lanes.
❌ Losers
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Cam Taylor-Britt: The cornerback, who had struggled earlier in the season, was a healthy scratch — a sign his role may be diminishing
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Pass Rush / Front Seven: With Trey Hendrickson out injured, the Bengals’ ability to pressure Rodgers was limited. Rodgers was allowed to sit in the pocket at times.
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Run Defense: The Bengals allowed over 7 yards per carry — a dangerous trend against teams that can chew clock.
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Clutch Defense: Late in the game, the Steelers found holes in Cincinnati’s coverage — enough to take the lead — before the offense answered.
