CINCINNATI — Week 7 of the NFL season kicks off on Thursday night with an important AFC North showdown as the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) travel to Paycor Stadium to face the Cincinnati Bengals (2-4). The Steelers are riding high, having won three straight games, while the Bengals are desperate to break a four-game losing streak, making this matchup a must-watch for division standings.
This game features two of the league’s veteran quarterbacks. Aaron Rodgers, now leading Pittsburgh, has shown flashes of brilliance and steadiness this season, while Joe Flacco steps in for Cincinnati after a challenging start to the year. Flacco made his Bengals debut last week, throwing 29 completions on 45 attempts for 219 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions, though Cincinnati still fell to Green Bay. The Bengals are hoping Flacco can provide a spark to a team that has been inconsistent on both sides of the ball.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Momentum and Defense
The Steelers have been impressive in recent weeks, defeating New England, Minnesota, and Cleveland in consecutive games. Rodgers completed 70% of his passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns in Week 6 against Cleveland, avoiding sacks and turnovers. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh’s defense held the Browns to just 248 total yards, controlling the game against rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel.
The Steelers’ formula has been simple but effective: a balanced offense led by Rodgers, a defense that pressures quarterbacks and shuts down big plays, and a disciplined approach to turnovers. As they head into Cincinnati, the Steelers aim to continue that dominance against a Bengals team struggling to find consistency.
Cincinnati Bengals: Searching for Answers
Cincinnati’s season has been tumultuous. Injuries and inconsistent play have left the Bengals in a difficult position in the AFC North. Joe Burrow remains out, Jake Browning struggled to produce, and now Flacco is tasked with stabilizing the offense. Last week’s showing against Green Bay showed promise, but the team’s rushing attack managed only 55 yards, and the defense gave up significant gains on the ground, including Josh Jacobs’ 93 yards and two touchdowns.
To have a chance against Pittsburgh, Cincinnati will need Flacco to build on last week’s performance, the offensive line to protect him better, and the running backs to produce meaningful yards. Defensive improvements are also critical, as the Steelers have consistently found ways to exploit weaknesses in opponents’ secondary and pass rush.
Key Matchup:
Aaron Rodgers vs. Joe Flacco – Two of the NFL’s most experienced quarterbacks face off in what could be a game of strategy and execution.
Steelers Defense vs. Bengals Running Game – Pittsburgh’s ability to stop the run could determine the outcome.
Bengals Offensive Line vs. Steelers Pass Rush – Protecting Flacco and giving him time to connect with receivers will be vital for Cincinnati.
Game Details:
Date: Thursday, Oct. 16
Kickoff: 8:15 p.m. ET
Location: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati
TV / Live Stream: Amazon Prime Video
Inactives:
Steelers: WR Calvin Austin III, OG Andrus Peat, DT Logan Lee, DE DeMarvin Leal
Bengals: CB Cam Taylor-Britt, C Matt Lee, WR Jermaine Burton, TE Tanner Hudson, DE Trey Hendrickson, DT McKinnley Jackson
What’s at Stake:
For the Steelers, a win would solidify their position atop the AFC North and extend their winning streak to four games. For the Bengals, a victory is essential to keep pace in the division and rebuild confidence under Flacco’s leadership.
Fans across the nation can follow the game live with updates, highlights, and play-by-play coverage through Yahoo Sports, ensuring they don’t miss any of the action in this pivotal Thursday night contest.