Bengals Dominate Turnover-Prone Steelers with a 17-10 Lead at Halftime in Thursday Night Football
In an unexpected turn of events, the Cincinnati Bengals dominated the Pittsburgh Steelers, overcoming an early deficit to take a 17-10 lead at halftime during Thursday Night Football. The Bengals showcased their resilience after trailing 10-0 in the first half.
Bengals Rally Against Steelers
The first half saw the Bengals outgain the Steelers, recording 220 total yards compared to Pittsburgh’s 183. The Steelers started strong, scoring on two of their first three possessions. Jonnu Smith caught a 10-yard touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers, followed by a 41-yard field goal from Chris Boswell.
Turnovers Shift Momentum
However, turnover issues plagued the Steelers. Cincinnati’s defense intercepted Rodgers on back-to-back possessions aimed at DK Metcalf. Safety Jordan Battle initiated the comeback with an interception at 4:25 remaining in the half. This set the stage for a swift three-play, 76-yard touchdown drive.
Cornerback DJ Turner then made a spectacular interception with just 40 seconds left, allowing Evan McPherson to kick a 49-yard field goal as the half ended.
Key Game Statistics
- Turnovers: Steelers – 2 interceptions
- Rodgers’ Performance: 13 completions on 19 attempts for 118 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions
- Metcalf Statistics: 2 receptions for 45 yards
- Warren’s Rushing: 8 carries for 45 yards
- Bengals Quarterback Flacco: 14 of 21 passes, 129 yards, 2 touchdowns
- Chase Statistics: 7 receptions for 61 yards and 1 touchdown
- Higgins Statistics: 3 receptions for 54 yards and 1 touchdown
- Brown’s Rushing: 74 yards on 5 carries
The Bengals, who faced a four-game losing streak before this matchup, will receive the second-half kickoff, maintaining the momentum built from their impressive first-half performance.
