For Steelers fans who were critical of Arthur Smith's offense, it came alive in a big way today.
Just over a week after a disappointing defeat to the Cleveland Browns, the Steelers redeemed themselves in an epic battle against the Cincinnati Bengals, winning 44-38. The win improves their record to 9-3 and puts them in sole possession of first place in the AFC North.
Simply put, this game was defined by quarterback Russell Wilson and the Steelers' offense. By the conclusion of the contest, they had accumulated 520 yards of total offense, while averaging an incredible 7.9 yards per play. Wilson went toe-to-toe with Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow in the first half, as both teams combined for 48 total points, including a pick-six interception by Bengals cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt. Upon further review, it was the result of a missed call in which receiver George Pickens was pulled down.
Despite questionable play by the Steelers' defense, Russell Wilson was sharp throughout the entire contest. When it was all said and done, Wilson finished with 414 passing yards (29 of 38) and three touchdowns. This marked his second 400-yard passing game of his career.
Next to Wilson, running back Najee Harris was arguably the Steelers' most impactful player on offense, finishing with 129 total yards (75 rushing, 54 receiving) and a rushing touchdown. Despite being victimized on the pick-six play, Pickens bounced back with the team's first touchdown, along with 74 yards on three receptions. Tight end Pat Freiermuth had an excellent game with 68 yards on six receptions and a touchdown. Receiver Van Jefferson made only one reception, but it was good for 43 yards. Lastly, running back Jaylen Warren may have had only nine rushing yards, but he contributed 55 receiving yards on four receptions.
Though the defense surrendered 375 total yards and allowed an average of 6.6 yards per play, they compensated by making plenty of splash plays in the form of four sacks, an interception, two forced fumbles, and a defensive touchdown.
Leading the way was veteran defensive lineman Cam Heyward, who finished with five tackles, a sack, two tackles for loss, and a pass deflection. All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt came back to life with two sacks and five quarterback hits. Linebacker Nick Herbig made waves with a sack-fumble that rookie linebacker Payton Wilson took 21 yards for a touchdown in the second half. Cornerback Donte Jackson registered his team-leading fifth interception of the season and a pass defensed.
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