In a thrilling contest, Joe Flacco propelled the Cincinnati Bengals to a narrow yet triumphant victory, throwing for an impressive 342 yards and three touchdowns. This win not only marked the end of a frustrating four-game losing streak for the Bengals but also showcased a remarkable comeback performance in the fourth quarter, ultimately securing their hard-fought victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Flacco, who joined the Bengals from the Cleveland Browns just days before on October 7, played exceptionally well, completing 31 of 47 passes during the game. At 40 years old, he not only displayed poise under pressure but also triumphed over fellow veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is 41. This matchup was special for a number of reasons, as it represented only the third regular-season clash between starting quarterbacks in their 40s in NFL history.
With this latest victory, Flacco added to his legacy in the league by achieving the 23rd fourth-quarter comeback of his impressive 18-year career. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor was elated after the game, stating, “This is a huge win. We needed it,” highlighting the importance of this victory after a period of struggle and disappointment for the team.
On the opposing side, Aaron Rodgers showcased his exceptional skills, completing 22 out of 32 passes for 244 yards while throwing four touchdowns and two interceptions. Late in the game, he rallied the Steelers (4-2) to a 31-30 lead with just 2:31 left on the clock, executing a brilliant 68-yard touchdown pass to tight end Pat Freiermuth. On a pivotal second-and-20 play, Rodgers rolled to his left, finding Freiermuth open downfield. Freiermuth made a spectacular catch at the Bengals’ 36-yard line after evading safety Geno Stone, ultimately scoring his second touchdown.
Flacco’s response in the closing moments of the game was nothing short of impressive. He swiftly guided the Bengals (3-4) down the field, traveling 52 yards in just eight plays. Key plays included two significant completions to the electrifying Ja’Marr Chase, gaining 15 and 18 yards, which advanced Cincinnati into Steelers territory. Following this, Flacco successfully connected with Tee Higgins for a crucial 28-yard gain, positioning the Bengals at the Steelers’ 5-yard line with only 1:39 left on the clock. With the game hanging in the balance, kicker Evan McPherson came through beautifully, scoring a 36-yard field goal with a mere seven seconds remaining and clinching the victory for the Bengals.
Ja’Marr Chase had an extraordinary performance, setting a franchise record with 16 receptions, totaling 161 yards and one touchdown. This game solidifies his place in history as the fourth player in NFL lore to have two games with at least 14 catches in a single season, showcasing his enormous talent and work ethic. Tee Higgins shone on the field as well, making six catches for 96 yards and a touchdown, while tight end Noah Fant contributed significantly with a touchdown reception of his own.
The Bengals displayed exceptional offensive prowess, scoring on seven of their final eight possessions, indicating a much-improved performance since star quarterback Joe Burrow was sidelined with a toe injury on September 14. After Burrow’s injury, Jake Browning struggled to find consistency in the starting role, prompting the Bengals to strategically acquire Flacco, knowing they needed to bolster their chances of success in the highly competitive AFC North division. Additionally, Chase Brown’s commendable performance, rushing for 108 yards on 11 carries, marked his second career game with over 100 yards rushing, reinforcing the team’s depth and versatility on offense.
For the Steelers, Freiermuth had a substantial day as well, collecting four receptions for 106 yards. Meanwhile, running back Jaylen Warren carried the ball effectively, racking up 127 yards on 16 carries, keeping the Steelers’ competitive spirit alive and ensuring an entertaining matchup.
Looking to the future, the Steelers will host the Green Bay Packers on October 26, while the Bengals will face off against the New York Jets on that same day. Each team will aim to build momentum from this exhilarating encounter as they continue their pursuit of success in the ongoing NFL season.
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