Steelers play-making was the key to victory vs Bengals

The defense played a factor in the Steelers’ win Sunday against the Bengals. Leaders from the defense performed at a high level – causing Cincinnati to walk a tight line for four quarters.

A good performance against their divisional foes will give Pittsburgh confidence moving forward – but can they continue to get the job done? Defeating the AFC champions on the road was tough for Tomlin’s team. Adjustments at the quarterback position required fans to buy into the team’s offensive philosophy. Pittsburgh looked good on paper and Mike Tomlin’s track record throughout his career was enough to excite fans for opening week.

Steelers defense keeps Joe Burrow rattled in the first half

Before Mitch Trubisky had a chance to take the field, the Steelers were on the board. A Minkah Fitzpatrick house call caught Brice Callahan’s offense off guard on Burrow’s first passing attempt of the season. The defense continued to control the early action. Alex Highsmith made the most of his career debut. His forced fumble ended the Bengals’ responding drive – allowing Canada and the offense more time to settle in.

Pittsburgh’s offensive play calling remained conservative, relying on playmakers to make the most favorable matchups. Jet sweeps to wide receiver Chase Claypool kept the defense off-guard. When the drive stalled, the Steelers called on Chris Boswell to extend the lead.

Consecutive turnovers helped the Steelers’ pass rush find its groove. Alex Highsmith and T.J Watt combined for four sacks – causing Burrow to lose confidence in the pocket. The pressure created more turnovers for Teryl Austin’s squad. Ahkello Witherspoon, Cameron Sutton, and Minkah Fitzpatrick caught a pass from Cincinnati’s gunslinger.

Steelers defense holds strong in the late stages of a wild game

An impressive defensive performance kept the Steelers in the lead for four quarters of the game. When the Bengals needed a touchdown to win, Pittsburgh dug in deep. Unnecessary penalties escorted Joe Burrow to the eight-yard line.

A touchdown reception to Ja’marr Chase with two seconds left tied the score at 20-20 with a pending extra point. A blocked field goal by Minkah Fitzpatrick sent the game into overtime.

Failure to move and gain a first down on the opening drive of the extra quarter forced Pittsburgh’s defense to take the field. A missed Eric McPherson field goal gave the Steelers another chance at victory. When Chris Boswell had a crack at a game-winning 55-yard field – he hit the upright and missed.

A chance to redeem himself with time winding down helped Boswell put a lid on an extended divisional win. When the final whistle sounded, Pittsburgh led 23-20.

Watching the Steelers defense gave fans hope for the long season to come. An injury to Najee Harris will raise questions for Pittsburgh’s offense. The lack of offense allowed Cincinnati to stay in the game – negating a stout defensive effort by the Steel Curtain.