Photo: steelers.com
The Pittsburgh Steelers are coming out of their bye week riding a four-game winning streak, but their next opponent presents a challenge unlike anything they’ve faced over the last month. The Cincinnati Bengals are playing some of their best offensive football of the season, and Sunday’s rematch could have major implications for the AFC North race.
Both teams enter the matchup with identical 6-2 records, although Pittsburgh holds the head-to-head advantage following its 30-27 victory over Cincinnati in Week 3. That first meeting was a close contest, and there’s little reason to believe the rematch at Paycor Stadium will be any easier.
However, the Steelers aren’t necessarily the same team that faced the Bengals in September, either. Mike McCarthy has repeatedly pointed toward improvements along both lines of scrimmage, while defensive coordinator Patrick Graham believes his unit has developed a better understanding of its responsibilities.
The question now is whether those improvements will be enough against a Bengals offense that’s finding its rhythm at exactly the right time.
One of the biggest differences between the first meeting and Sunday’s rematch could be Cincinnati’s offensive line. The Bengals have invested in protecting Joe Burrow, and Graham believes that investment is starting to pay off.
During Monday’s press conference, Graham specifically praised the cohesion of Cincinnati’s offensive line and the work of offensive line coach Scott Peters. He also singled out right tackle Amarius Mims, whose combination of size, athleticism and physicality has made him a difficult matchup for opposing pass rushers.
That’s particularly important because Burrow doesn’t need much time to make defenses pay. His ability to identify coverages, make quick decisions and deliver accurate throws has always been a strength, but improved protection makes an already dangerous passing attack even more difficult to contain.
The Steelers managed just one sack, at the very closing moments of the game, in their first meeting with Cincinnati. McCarthy acknowledged that Burrow’s ability to get the football out quickly was a major factor, noting that the quarterback rarely wastes movement in the pocket.
That creates an interesting matchup against a Pittsburgh defense that has been generating more consistent pressure in recent weeks.
While Cincinnati’s offensive line has improved, the same can be said for Pittsburgh’s defensive front. The Steelers have become more effective at creating pressure without necessarily relying on individual players to win every matchup.
McCarthy credited the development of the team’s pass-rushing rotation, along with improved communication between veterans and younger players. He specifically mentioned Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt as important voices in making adjustments that can create opportunities for the entire defense.
Graham has also become more comfortable utilizing different players in pressure packages. Patrick Queen and Jalen Ramsey have been involved in some of those looks, giving Pittsburgh additional ways to attack opposing protections without dramatically changing its defensive scheme.
Alex Highsmith is another player worth watching. Although his traditional statistics might not reflect his overall impact, Graham praised his discipline, effort and versatility, particularly when setting the edge and coordinating with the rest of the pass rush.
Getting to Burrow won’t be easy, especially with how quickly he processes information. However, Pittsburgh doesn’t necessarily need sacks on every possession to disrupt Cincinnati’s offense. Pressuring Burrow into uncomfortable throws, closing passing lanes and preventing him from stepping into the pocket could be just as important.
There’s no shortage of attention surrounding Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, and for good reason. Both receivers are capable of changing a game with a single play, particularly when Burrow has time to work through his progressions.
Graham acknowledged that Cincinnati’s passing attack remains dangerous regardless of whether a defense uses one deep safety or two. Burrow has shown a willingness to challenge coverage downfield, trusting his receivers to make plays even when defenders are in position.
That puts additional pressure on Pittsburgh’s secondary, which has undergone considerable changes since the beginning of the season. Rookie defensive backs Daylen Everette and Robert Spears-Jennings have gained valuable experience, and Graham believes both have earned trust by playing physical football and avoiding repeated mistakes.
However, the Steelers can’t become so concerned with stopping Cincinnati’s passing game that they forget about the run. Graham identified stopping the run as his defense’s first priority, even against an opponent known for throwing the football.
That approach makes sense. If Pittsburgh can limit Cincinnati’s rushing opportunities and create predictable passing situations, it gives its pass rush a better chance to make an impact. Allowing the Bengals to stay balanced would only make Burrow’s job easier.
Much of the attention this week will understandably focus on Burrow and Cincinnati’s offense, but the Steelers have made significant strides of their own since the first meeting.
Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio pointed toward Pittsburgh’s improved continuity along the offensive line as one of the reasons the running game has become more effective. The Steelers have been able to establish a more physical approach, leaning on combination blocks and creating opportunities for their running backs to get downhill.
That was a major part of Pittsburgh’s success against Cincinnati in September, and Angelichio made it clear the Steelers aren’t planning to abandon concepts that have already worked. They may present those plays differently, but the underlying approach should remain familiar. With Rico Dowdle healthy and available alongside Jaylen Warren, Pittsburgh has additional options in the backfield. Darnell Washington‘s development has also given the offense greater flexibility, particularly because of his ability to contribute as both a blocker and receiver.
Of course, the Steelers will still need more from their passing game. DK Metcalf has caught only three passes over the last two games, and both McCarthy and Angelichio acknowledged the importance of creating more opportunities for their top receiver.
If Sunday’s matchup turns into a high-scoring affair, Pittsburgh may need Rodgers and the passing game to contribute more than they have during some of the team’s recent victories.
There’s something to be said for familiarity in divisional matchups, but both coaching staffs understand that simply repeating what worked the first time isn’t necessarily a recipe for success.
Graham explained that preparing for a division opponent requires revisiting everything with a fresh perspective. Teams evolve throughout the season, personnel changes, and tendencies become easier to identify as more film becomes available.
McCarthy expressed a similar sentiment, emphasizing that the Steelers are playing better football now than they were in September. Their improved execution in the trenches, defensive pressure and ability to create turnovers have all contributed to the team’s recent success.
Still, Cincinnati presents a much different challenge than the opponents Pittsburgh has faced during its winning streak. The Bengals have the offensive firepower to erase deficits quickly, and the Steelers can’t count on controlling the game simply by establishing their running attack.
Sunday night’s matchup will be an important measuring stick for both teams. Pittsburgh has already proven it can beat Cincinnati, but doing it again on the road against a more cohesive Bengals offense would send an even stronger message about where the Steelers stand in the AFC North.
And with both teams sitting at 6-2, the opportunity to secure a season sweep could prove just as valuable as the victory itself.
