Soooo … yyyeah, the result of the Cincinnati Bengals/Pittsburgh Steelers game wasn’t what we wanted. And the officiating was something we definitely didn’t want. But instead of imagining the zebras having a post-game cold one with Tomlin and Co., we’ll focus our attention elsewhere. Here are our 5 takeaways from the Cincinnati Bengals/Pittsburgh Steelers game:
5 Takeaways from the Cincinnati Bengals game:
1. The AFC North still goes through Pittsburgh.. Even with the Baltimore Ravens sitting at 2-0, they don’t have a head-to-head win on the Cincinnati Bengals. Cleveland is … well, Cleveland. If Cincy wants to take the AFC North, they’ll have to even the series against the Steelers on December 18 in the Queen City matchup.
2. These teams are playoff teams. They’ve got talent. They’ve proven themselves in early-season match-ups against good teams. Both squads have what it takes to compete for the division and make the playoffs. We think they will. Heck, they may even play each other 3 times this year.
3. Dalton is awesome. OK, we knew this already. But even with a loss, it’s sweet to know that Andy Dalton plays for your team. He went 31 of 54 for 366 yards (for the second straight game) and a touchdown against a great defense. Oh, and he’s leading the NFL in passing yards, too. Not bad. To steal a line from the Patrick Swayze classic Road House, Dalton’s the best in the business …
4. Certain NFL officiating crews need work. Last time, then we’ll get off this. Reportedly, the group from the Pittsburgh Steelers-Cincinnati Bengals game was on “high alert”. After the job they did, we think they should be on the unemployment line. In downtown Cincy. In December. In their undershorts.
5. Cincinnati’s O-line looks better. They did a much better job of keeping Dalton upright this week (1 sack) versus last week against the New York Jets (7 sacks). Yes, the offense only managed 46 yards rushing, but they’ve played two of the better run defenses in the league. We’re optimistic.
The Bengals didn’t play well enough and yes I am a Bengals fan but that may be the “WORST” job I have EVER seen by a group of officials. Clearly not a fumble, late hits on Dalton, and Pittsburgh offensive line hogtying the Bengals front four!! Too bad good teams and horrible officiating.