Steelers vs Bengals: Discover Three Crucial Storylines for Thursday’s Week 7 Prime-Time Showdown
The upcoming Thursday night matchup in Week 7 features a high-stakes clash between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals. This prime-time game will showcase interesting storylines that fans and analysts alike should closely watch.
Key Storylines for the Steelers vs. Bengals Showdown
1. Joe Flacco’s Quick Adjustment
Joe Flacco is set to start for the Bengals after being acquired from the Browns. His debut came just days following the trade. Initially, Flacco struggled in the first half against the Packers. However, he rebounded impressively, completing 21 of 30 passes for 179 yards and throwing a fourth-and-goal touchdown.
His performance sparked a notable resurgence for the Bengals’ offense. Tee Higgins shone with his best game of the season, while Ja’Marr Chase also contributed with a touchdown catch in the fourth quarter. The Bengals look to maintain this momentum despite some challenging conditions, including three dropped passes by rookie Andrei Iosivas.
2. Strengths of the Steelers’ Defense
The Steelers’ defense has improved significantly in recent weeks. They have accumulated 20 sacks in the current season, with six coming in their latest game. Notably, T.J. Watt remains a critical player, but Nick Herbig leads the team with 4.5 sacks, all secured in the last three games.
As Flacco leads the Bengals’ offense, protecting him remains a concern. Cincinnati has allowed 16 sacks this season and showed vulnerability in their offensive line. Orlando Brown and Amarius Mims have particularly struggled against edge pressure.
3. The Bengals’ Run Game Struggles
The Bengals have had difficulty establishing a successful run game this season. They have not surpassed 85 rushing yards in any game, pointing to a significant area for improvement. Running back Chase Brown must step up to provide balance, particularly against a formidable Steelers defense.
Hope for the Future
As both teams prepare for this crucial prime-time encounter, a mix of offensive adjustments and defensive strategies will be key. The Steelers aim to leverage their improved pass rush against Flacco, while the Bengals will look to capitalize on their aerial strengths and find a reliable run game. This Week 7 showdown promises to be an exciting spectacle for NFL fans.
