The
Quarterback
Special teams and late-game errors
The Bengals' path to victory was obstructed by significant lapses in special teams play. A costly roughing-the-kicker penalty extended a Pittsburgh drive that ultimately resulted in a touchdown, while a muffed punt later in the contest provided the Steelers with prime field position. That turnover directly set up Chris Boswell’s 33-yard field goal with 2:15 remaining, which ultimately served as the decisive points of the game.
Head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the team's failure to execute when it mattered most. He noted that the Bengals had chances to seize control in all three phases during the fourth quarter but were unable to capitalize. The defensive unit, which had performed well in the opening two weeks, struggled to contain the Pittsburgh offense, conceding 411 total yards.
Burrow's late fumble seals defeat
Following the Steelers' go-ahead field goal, Cincinnati had a final opportunity to respond. With two timeouts remaining, the offense moved into range for kicker Evan McPherson. However, the drive ended prematurely when Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon pressured Burrow. As the quarterback attempted to escape the sack and throw the ball away, Harmon forced a fumble, which Pittsburgh recovered to secure the win.
Burrow, who had previously given the Bengals a 27-24 lead with a touchdown pass early in the fourth quarter, expressed frustration over the team's inability to play clean football. He emphasized the need for better situational awareness and individual accountability moving forward. According to league data, the late fumble adds to a concerning trend for the quarterback, who has struggled with turnovers in high-pressure situations since the beginning of the 2024 season.
Despite the disappointment, wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase remained optimistic about the team's trajectory. He noted that the issues plaguing the Bengals are controllable and remain within the team's power to rectify as they look to move past this setback.
