In a familiar Steelers v. Bengals script, the Steelers survived an “almost” fourth quarter collapse to beat the Bengals on a timely play by Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown.
Powered by a dominating performance by the offensive line, Ben Roethlisberger put together a heroic second half culminating in the 62 second, 77-Yard drive that produced a 31-yard catch-and-run by Antonio Brown with 10 seconds remaining to win the game. It was another fantastic Ohio performance for Roethlisberger who finished with 369 Yards passing and one touchdown.
With the specter of Le’Veon Bell hanging over his shoulder, James Conner had his most complete performance as a Steeler. Conner produced his third 100-Yard game of the season and had several highlight-reel runs including planting Vontaze Burfict on one. Conner finished with 111 yards on the ground and two touchdowns. He leads the NFL in rushing touchdowns.
The receivers had a great day as Roethlisberger completed passes to eight different receivers including himself. Brown was relatively quiet but stepped up when the team needed it most. Vance McDonald and Jesse James are a dangerous combination, they combined for 12 catches for 94 yards.
In an emotional day for the defense, they put together a good performance overall, but they still seem to struggle in the middle. The defense put up respectable numbers but overall couldn’t make any big plays.
Can the special teams stink anymore? It is amazing how bad they play on a weekly basis. Coming off one of their best games, it was the same formula as before, mistake after mistake and poor coverage.
The Steelers continue to make several mistakes and continue to be penalized. But it was a big division win in hostile territory and put the team back in contention.
BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!
My “GAME BEER” goes to: This is when my football biased comes out…I am going with the Offensive Line, For the second week in a row they helped produce over 100-yards on the ground and ZERO sacks! It starts up front and with great protection it is amazing what these teams can do! Also Considered, Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown and James Conner all would have been great choices.
Where I watched the game: All over the house! I had to box in the AM but made it home about 5 minutes after kickoff. So, I watched some in my room, while getting changed, some in the upstairs family room with the Tailgate Kids and the Tailgate Pup and finally downstairs when KGB got home. Since I am in training, no beer, but we had amazing Buffalo Chicken Parmigiana Sliders and pasta with Garlic and Oil. One of our best snacks ever!
My Stat of the week: I already highlighted the performance by the O-line which shutout Carlos Dunlop and Geno Atkins. I am going with ONE! One reception by Ben Roethlisberger. While this is an innocuous stat it marks the second catch of Roethlisberger’s career and first in roughly ten years!
My Thoughts on next week: The Steelers needed a big win going into the bye week and they got it. The BYE week should prove timely and may end the Le’Veon Bell drama!
This week’s Jersey: Heath Miller, #83, Steelers “Blackout” jersey. KGB Covets this jersey!
We will review the “first half” next week about this time. Thanks for your patience!