Flacco Leads Bengals to Thrilling Comeback Victory Over Steelers
In a thrilling encounter on Thursday night, the Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 33-31, marking a much-needed victory that snapped their four-game losing streak. Quarterback Joe Flacco, who joined the Bengals from the Cleveland Browns on October 7, showcased his experience by passing for 342 yards and three touchdowns, leading his team to success in only his second start for Cincinnati.
Flacco’s performance was notable not only for its impact but also for the significance of the matchup. He faced off against Aaron Rodgers, who is one year his senior. This game was only the third in NFL history featuring starting quarterbacks aged 40 and above. Flacco’s victory also marked the 23rd fourth-quarter comeback of his illustrious 18-year career. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expressed his satisfaction after the game, stating, “This is a huge win. We needed it.”
The Steelers initially appeared to take control of the match when Rodgers, completing 22 of 32 passes for 244 yards, connected with tight end Pat Freiermuth on a spectacular 68-yard touchdown pass, giving Pittsburgh a 31-30 lead with just over two minutes remaining. Freiermuth’s second touchdown of the evening came after he separated from Bengals safety Geno Stone, illustrating Rodgers’ ability to make plays under pressure.
Despite this setback, Flacco responded decisively. He orchestrated a crucial drive, moving the Bengals 52 yards in just eight plays. Key completions to Ja’Marr Chase, which included 15 and 18-yard passes, advanced Cincinnati into Steelers territory. Flacco’s final connection was a 28-yard gain to Tee Higgins, bringing the Bengals to the Steelers’ 5-yard line with 1:39 left on the clock, setting up a potential game-winning field goal.
The Bengals’ kicker, Evan McPherson, stepped up to make a 36-yard field goal with just seven seconds remaining, sealing the victory for Cincinnati. Chase had a standout performance, catching a franchise-record 16 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown. This achievement made him only the fourth receiver in NFL history to record two games with at least 14 catches in a single season. Higgins also contributed significantly, finishing with six receptions for 96 yards and a touchdown.
On the ground, Chase Brown added to the Bengals’ offensive effort, rushing for 108 yards on 11 carries, marking the second 100-yard game of his career. For the Steelers, Freiermuth ended with four catches for 106 yards, while running back Jaylen Warren recorded 127 rushing yards on 16 carries.
Looking ahead, the Steelers (4-2) will host the Green Bay Packers on October 26, 2023, while the Bengals (3-4) are set to face the New York Jets on the same day. This matchup showcased the resilience of the Bengals and highlighted the enduring talent of quarterbacks Flacco and Rodgers, both of whom continue to perform at a high level despite their age.
