In a pivotal Week 18 matchup, the Cincinnati Bengals edged out the Pittsburgh Steelers 19-17, maintaining their slim playoff aspirations. Quarterback Joe Burrow led the offense with 277 passing yards and one touchdown, while kicker Cade York contributed four field goals, including the decisive 45-yard kick in the final minutes.
Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase was instrumental, recording 10 receptions for 96 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his consistent performance throughout the season.
Defensively, the Bengals were formidable. Trey Hendrickson delivered a standout performance with 3.5 sacks, bringing his season total to 17.5, leading the NFL.
The Steelers, despite quarterback Russell Wilson’s 148 passing yards and one touchdown, struggled offensively, totaling just 193 yards. This loss extended their losing streak to four games, raising concerns about their momentum heading into the playoffs.
With the victory, the Bengals improved their record to 9-8. However, their playoff hopes are contingent on the outcomes of other games. They need both the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins to lose in order to secure a playoff berth.
Bengals coach Zac Taylor said, “They’re capable of everything,” Taylor said of the season, as ESPN reported. “They’re not going to want us in this tournament. I promise you.”
Burrow echoed what his coach said, “I know that if we get in, we can make some noise with the players and coaches that we have in this building,” Burrow said, as ESPN reported. “We’ve just got to hope for some help tomorrow and sit back and watch it.”
As the NFL playoffs approach, both teams will need to address their respective challenges. The Bengals will be hoping for favorable results from other games to continue their season, while the Steelers will aim to rebound from their recent losses and prepare for a tough playoff matchup.
“The odds are long,” Burrow said, according to ESPN. “But we’ve got a shot.”
CBS Sports gave a look at the playoff picture, following the doubleheader against the Ravens and Browns and Bengals and Steelers.
