Shortcomings of Bengals, backup QB Jake Browning were apparent in blowout by Steelers

Shortcomings of Bengals, backup QB Jake Browning were apparent in blowout by Steelers

Cincinnati (AP) — Two days before Christmas, in Pittsburgh,

the Bengals’ optimism and prospects of making the playoffs were dashed.

Cincinnati has managed to sneak back into the postseason picture by winning three games in a row.

For the Bengals to remain there, though, they had to defeat the Steelers on Saturday.

Rather, Cincinnati (8-7) was thoroughly outclassed by one of the league’s worst offences.

In lieu of the injured Joe Burrow, Jake Browning, starting for the fifth time,

threw three interceptions on careless passes.

The Bengals’ other vulnerabilities were also exploited by the Steelers.

What else is new? Cincinnati was unable to run the ball,

and the defence was unable to contain Mason Rudolph, Pittsburgh’s backup quarterback.

It has been since October 22 that the Steelers (8-7) had not scored 24 points in a single game.

On Saturday, they won 34-11 after leading 24-0 at the half.

Why the Bengals collapsed is a mystery.

The Steelers appeared vulnerable with Rudolph starting at quarterback,

practice squad calls at safety and linebacker, and overall internal discord.

Sam Hubbard, the defensive end for Cincinnati, stated,

“I don’t have an answer for you.”

Coach Zac Taylor stated,

“We just need to keep picking up the pieces and figure out how to be better next week.”

Despite winning the AFC North the previous two seasons,

the Bengals are in danger of missing the postseason.

They have a New Year’s Eve show at Kansas City.

We avoid overreacting. In the past few weeks,

we’ve accomplished some really fantastic things,

Taylor remarked. We didn’t have a very good experience on Saturday.

We simply need to accept the narrative that will be followed going forward,

hold ourselves responsible for it,

and be prepared to give Kansas City our best shot.

What is effective

With standout receiver Ja’Marr Chase out,

Browning completed a 335-yard pass while distributing the ball to ten different receivers.

WHAT REQUIRES ASSISTANCE

Browning is choosing poorly in a few instances.

The Steelers scored scores after he intercepted two passes in the first half.

Browning was sacked three times this season as a result of the poor running game,

which has allowed pass rushers to apply more pressure.

Following three wins in a row in which he started, the 27-year-old Browning,

who may be trying out for other teams who need a quarterback next season,

seemed overmatched against the Steelers.

“Many quarterbacks had a poor performance,” he remarked.

“I need to figure out how to reply. That’s where we are, and that’s where I am right now.

AVAILABLE STOCK

A season-high 140 yards were gained by wide receiver Tee Higgins on five receptions,

including an 80-yard touchdown in the third quarter.

LOW STOCK

George Pickens torched the Bengals defensive backs for two long scores,

while Rudolph was efficient with his deep passes.

INJURIES

It affected the Bengals’ ability to stop the run when DT DJ Reader was lost for the season.

With 113 yards of running, the Steelers scored.

Chase’s (shoulder) potential return date is unknown.

Crucial numbers

Cincinnati has a record of 3-7 while playing AFC teams.

UPCOMING STEPS

It’s imperative that the Bengals move on from this disaster.

The Chiefs, who will almost certainly make the playoffs for the first time since 2020,

are their next opponent at Arrowhead Stadium.

Then comes the home game versus Cleveland in the regular-season finale.

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