Steelers Defeat Bengals
Steelers Upset Bengals Behind Disruptive Defense in AFC North Opener
Anonymous
Pittsburgh upset Cincinnati in the teams’ first AFC North matchup of the season, with Ben Skowronek among the Steelers’ touchdown scorers. The 2-0 Bengals had viewed the road game as a major test, while Pittsburgh prepared to contain Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Burrow was a full participant in practice after dealing with a back issue, but receiver Andrei Iosivas was set to miss at least four weeks after thumb surgery. Both teams emphasized the Steelers’ disruptive defensive front, including T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward, and the need to limit sacks, tipped passes and explosive plays.
Key Points
1
Pittsburgh’s defense had allowed just two touchdowns through its first two games and ranked second in both sacks and interceptions, according to the Steelers’ report before the matchup.
2
The Steelers’ pass rushers had produced notable individual numbers: Cam Heyward led the league with four batted passes, while T.J. Watt had an interception, 3.5 sacks and four quarterback hits; Alex Highsmith had 3.0 sacks and five quarterback hits.
3
Cam Heyward said Burrow is particularly difficult to defend because he keeps his eyes downfield, extends plays with his feet and gives Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins opportunities to make plays.
4
Heyward said stopping Cincinnati’s run game was part of Pittsburgh’s plan to beat the Bengals.
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