The good, the bad and the ugly from the Steelers win against the Bengals

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PITTSBURGH, PA – SEPTEMBER 30: Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers lines up under center in the first half during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Heinz Field on September 30, 2019, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

A young QB gets his first win at home on Monday Night Football

Rudolph threw the ball 28 times, connecting on 24 of those throws for 229 yards with 2 TD passes. An 85.7% completion percentage is wildly impressive, but what is more impressive is the fact that Rudolph did not force the ball into tight windows, did not try to get the ball to a receiver who was covered and did not put his defense in untenable situations.

Taking what the defense gives you is the smart move, it may not be the ‘flashy’ move, but it is, most definitely, the smart move. I would have liked to have seen Rudolph throw more ‘vertical’ or deep routes, but, I think that part of his game will develop over time as he gains more confidence and gets more exposure to various defensive looks.

The offense added 66 yards rushing, finishing the night with 326 total yards thanks to some creative play calling that introduced Steelers fans to the ‘Wildcat’ formation for the first time this season.

While in the ‘Wildcat,’ Jaylen Samuels contributed to the total passing yards by going 3 for 3 for 31 yards. It was certainly a new wrinkle to the offense, but the Steelers needed this victory and did whatever was necessary to secure said victory.

Let’s proceed with reviewing the bad facets of the game.

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