The Pittsburgh Steelers walked into their Thursday night matchup against the Bengals as heavy favorites. They were on an impressive win streak while the Bengals were floundering. No defense, no run game, and a passing offense led by Joe Flacco.
If you know the usual script though, you weren’t shocked that the Steelers lost this game.
It looked good to start, and some players still looked great this week, but it was a sloppy and overconfident outing for Mike Tomlin’s team. Now they head into the long week with a lot to think about.
The winners played their part, but they couldn’t overcome the numerous issues that plagued this team.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' winners and losers from their embarrassing loss to the Bengals
Steelers Loser: The Coaches
Ugly. It felt like we were walking into a trap this week, despite being the better team on paper. Instead, the Steelers let the middle of the game turn into a disaster where the Bengals took over. There were no answers until it was too late. A pathetic showing from this staff, top to bottom.
Steelers Winner: Pat Freiermuth
It took a handful of weeks to get here, but Pat Freiermuth finally had a big game. All of the tight ends produced this week, but he did the most. After weeks of questioning what his role is, he reminded fans just how good he can be. He continues to be a thorn in the Bengals' side.
Steelers Loser: Darius Slay
It really hasn’t been that strong of a season for Darius Slay. While brought in to be a stabilizing veteran force, he has quickly become a third fiddle on defense. His overall play feels like regression from his usual strong play.
He was picked on tonight in the passing game. Everyone seemed to beat him at some point, and he looked his age.
Steelers Winner: Jaylen Warren
For being cast off by most fans in favor of rookie Kaleb Johnson this summer, Jaylen Warren has reminded everyone just how special he is. He was a bully on the ground and a safety valve in the passing game. The offense moves through him right now.
Steelers Loser: The Defense
Lumping this group in as a whole. The Bengals' offense has been pathetic without Joe Burrow, but the Flacco-led unit was dynamic tonight. And the ground game was electric despite being the worst rushing offense in the league.
It felt like what I expected from this unit: an overall disappointing performance when they should have continued to shine. You need this group to be more consistent, considering how important the defense is.
Steelers Loser: Jalen Ramsey
I have praised Jalen Ramsey often this year, but this game was the exception. He lost numerous battles against Ja'Marr Chase and was burned late in the game by Tee Higgins. Easily his worst outing in a Steelers uniform.