Ja’Marr Chase Breaks Team Records and Joe Flacco Dominates Steelers as Bengals Lead 2-0 in AFC North

The Cincinnati Bengals delivered a solid performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers, marked by exceptional contributions from both the offensive line and special teams. The game showcased a thrilling dynamic in the AFC North, with the Bengals continuing their strong start to the season.
Ja’Marr Chase Breaks Team Records
Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase set new records for the Bengals, showcasing his remarkable talent and ability to impact crucial moments. His performance not only energized the team but also reflected the growing synergy within the Bengals’ offense. The Bengals’ offensive strategy was effective in creating opportunities throughout the game.
Offensive Line Performance
The offensive line received accolades for their performance, effectively countering the Steelers’ pass rush. They allowed quarterback Joe Flacco to stay upright, enabling him to connect with his receivers and lead the team efficiently.
- Running game excelled with a season-high 142 yards on 23 carries
- Tackle Amarius Mims successfully contained star defender T.J. Watt
- Flacco was only pressured three times during the game
McPherson’s Field Goals
Following a challenging previous season, kicker Evan McPherson enjoyed a stellar night, going 4-for-4 on field goals. This performance marks his first perfect game since September 2024.
- Scored from various distances, showcasing his reliability
- Dedicated offseason effort to overcoming previous struggles paid off
Joe Flacco Dominates Steelers
At 40 years old, Flacco proved his experience and skill by maneuvering effectively against the Steelers’ defense. He turned a potential loss into a gain, keeping the Bengals in control as they battled to maintain their lead.
- Executed a crucial 12-yard run, highlighting his agility
- Previously scored a notable 21-yarder in 2024 against the Jaguars
Game Atmosphere
Despite the competitive nature of the game, the atmosphere at Paycor Stadium was electric. With a crowd of 66,569, it marked one of the highest attendances in the venue’s history, adding to the excitement of the night.
The Bengals’ victory advances them to a 2-0 record in the AFC North, setting a promising tone for the remainder of the season. The combination of a resilient offensive line, an efficient kicker, and a seasoned quarterback positions them well for upcoming challenges in their campaign.