The Cincinnati Bengals finished the season with a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 18, 19-17.
With a victory to move to 9-8, the Bengals kept their playoff hopes alive and will now watch Sunday’s outcomes to see if they make it.
Joe Burrow’s offense left points on the field during key situations throughout the night despite another huge game from Ja’Marr Chase, who became the first-ever to record 1,700 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in the same season.
Here’s a look at some quick notes, numbers to know and takeaways from the game.
Quick thoughts
- Burrow started 12-of-12 with a touchdown over the two opening drives en route a 10-0 advantage. Pittsburgh went with some odd looks, including single high man coverage and the offense made them pay.
- Cam Taylor-Britt earned two third-down flags on a Steelers touchdown drive in the first half.
- Like many games this year, Bengals should have turned this into a blowout. Instead, they had five red zone trips in the first half, only to be up 13-7 at halftime.
- Burrow suffered an injury in the third quarter, remaining down on the field before going to the blue medical tent.
- DJ Ivey continues to shine in a deep-depth role and had a huge pass breakup in the third quarter deep down the field on a shot to George Pickens.
- In a game of elite pass-rushers, it was Trey Hendrickson outshining T.J. Watt, extending his league-leading mark to 16 on a multi-sack night.
- With a chance at a final drive to seal the game while up two late, the offense again sputtered when it mattered most and had to punt.
Key stat
1-of-4: Cincinnati’s scoring rate in the red zone. Like many games this season, this one probably shouldn’t have been as close as it was. But key mistakes, from play calls to player execution, held them back in crucial moments.
Game balls
LB Shaka Heyward: How about the practice squad ‘backer being involved in several big plays? He was all over the field in the base defense and forced the fumble on special teams.
WR Ja’Marr Chase: The record-breaking receiver and possible Triple Brown winner caught 10 passes for 96 yards and one score.
Top takeaway
Last chance: The Bengals needed this one to keep longshot playoff chances alive and got it. Ugly, but they got it. Now, if the Broncos and Dolphins lose on Sunday, the Bengals go to the playoffs. If not, they turn to an offseason of likely big changes.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1]