The Cincinnati Bengals have kept their playoff dream alive with a thrilling 19-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in a nail-biting season finale. With this win, the Bengals are still in contention for a postseason berth, a scenario few thought possible just weeks ago.
A Strong Defensive Performance
While the Bengals’ offense struggled to find its rhythm for most of the game, it was the defense that truly shined. The Bengals jumped to an early 10-0 lead in the first quarter, fueled by a touchdown pass from Joe Burrow to star receiver Ja’Marr Chase. However, following that initial burst, the offense managed only four field goals for the rest of the game.
The Steelers fought back, scoring their first touchdown in the second quarter, but the Bengals’ defense held strong, allowing only a few scoring opportunities. Just before halftime, Cincinnati managed to add a field goal, leading 13-7 at the break.
Second Half Action
In the second half, the Bengals continued to capitalize on their chances, nailing two additional field goals to extend their lead to 19-7 early in the final quarter. However, the Steelers weren’t ready to roll over just yet. Quarterback Russell Wilson orchestrated an impressive nine-play, 65-yard touchdown drive capped off by a catch from tight end Pat Freiermuth, narrowing the score to 19-12.
A Turn of Events
As the game progressed, the tension increased. With just over five minutes left, the Steelers went three-and-out and punted the ball. An unfortunate muffed punt by the Bengals gave Pittsburgh new life at the Cincinnati 38-yard line. Despite their favorable field position, the Steelers struggled to capitalize, ultimately settling for a 54-yard field goal, reducing the deficit to just two points at 19-17 with 2:39 left on the clock.
The Final Moments
With the game hanging in the balance, the Steelers managed to get the ball back inside the two-minute warning, requiring only a field goal to clinch the victory. On a crucial third down, Wilson targeted wide receiver George Pickens, but the pass slipped through his fingers, a continuation of a frustrating night for the young player. On fourth down, Freiermuth was also unable to secure a catch, sealing the Bengals’ victory as they kneeled out the clock.
Playoff Scenarios for the Bengals
As they celebrate this hard-fought win, the Bengals are now watching the outcomes of two key games: for them to secure a playoff spot, the Denver Broncos must either tie or lose to the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Miami Dolphins need to fall to the New York Jets.
The Steelers, while still holding onto the No. 5 seed in the AFC, could drop to No. 6 depending on the outcome of the Los Angeles Chargers’ game on Sunday.
Burrow’s MVP Case
Joe Burrow further solidified his case for a longshot MVP consideration, completing 37 of 46 passes for 277 yards and a touchdown. Chase was a standout performer, racking up 10 receptions for 96 yards along with the first-quarter touchdown.
On the other side, Wilson finished 17-for-31 for 148 yards, but the Steelers’ receiving corps struggled to make significant contributions. Freiermuth led the team with eight catches for 85 yards, while Najee Harris followed with four catches.
As the Bengals await their playoff fate, fans can be sure that they will be glued to NFL RedZone on Sunday, hoping to join two other AFC North teams in the postseason.
