Defeating divisional foes is challenging. Especially if a franchise is already underperforming at the start of the campaign. Fans understand the Pittsburgh Steelers are not in an ideal situation. A 20-3 loss to the New England Patriots exposed immediate concerns. Now, Mike McCarthy’s staff must work to fix shortcomings before an intense Week 3 matchup against the only undefeated team in the AFC North.
And the Cincinnati Bengals will not pull any punches Sunday afternoon.
Why should they? Leading up to this point, Zac Taylor’s crew hasn’t achieved much success against Pittsburgh. Actually, they struggle when facing the Steel Curtain. Just take a look at the last few meetings. Since 2019, Taylor has earned a 6-8 overall record.
But things could be different this year due to Cincinnati’s roster innovation, coupled with the Steelers' inability to score points. This season, Mike McCarthy’s offense ranks 31st in scoring (11.5 PPG), 29th in passing (175 YPG), and 29th in rushing (74.5 YPG). Their third-down conversion rate (20%) is also second-worst in the league.
The offensive roadblocks are inexcusable for a franchise that spent the off-season investing in solutions for a recurring problem. McCarthy’s hiring, Aaron Rodgers’ return, and even Michael Pittman Jr.’s trade were meant to add points to the scoreboard. Instead, it’s yielded little change and no improvement.
And that’s music to the Bengals’ ears.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must prepare for a crucial AFC North matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals
While Pittsburgh struggles to find an offensive identity, Cincinnati is sharpening its developing defensive identity. It began with one of the offseason’s biggest trades. The Bengals sent the No. 10 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the Giants for Dexter Lawrence II before signing the three-time Pro-Bowler to a one-year, $28 million extension through 2028.
The front office also acquired Jonathan Allen and Boye Mafe for a revamped defensive line.
Their presence is making a significant difference. The Bengals rank third against the run (74.5 YPG), tied for eighth in scoring defense (16.5 PPG), and fifth in percentage of touchdowns allowed in the redzone (25%). An impressive showing against the Houston Texans was their most recent display of dominance.
Al Golden’s defense refused to allow a touchdown and held Houston to a 29% third-down efficiency rating. It allowed Joe Burrow and his targets to dominate without worrying about outscoring the opposing offense.
A streaky defensive unit is the last thing McCarthy’s unit wants to face. Especially since Michael Pittman Jr.’s status for Week 3 is uncertain after missing a game due to a foot injury. Without Pittman, Pittsburgh could once again ask a young receiving corps to create separation against a defense increasingly comfortable dictating games.
Pittsburgh doesn’t need perfection on Sunday, but they desperately need evidence that McCarthy’s offense is capable of responding. Against an undefeated divisional rival armed with an improving defense and Joe Burrow on the opposite sideline, another three-point performance could put the Steelers in an uncomfortable position only three weeks into the season. What usually feels like another anticipated AFC North battle suddenly resembles the first must-win game of McCarthy’s tenure.
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