News Summary
In a thrilling Thursday Night Football game, the Cincinnati Bengals triumphed over the Pittsburgh Steelers with a final score of 33-31. The win ended the Bengals’ four-game losing streak and showcased a dramatic final play where Evan McPherson kicked a 36-yard field goal in the closing seconds. Quarterback Joe Flacco impressed with 342 yards and three touchdowns, while wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase set a franchise record with 16 receptions, contributing to a crucial comeback after trailing early in the game. The victory has important implications for Cincinnati’s playoff chances.
Cincinnati Scores Narrow Victory Over Pittsburgh on Thursday Night Football
Cincinnati, Ohio — In a dramatic and closely contested game, the Cincinnati Bengals secured a 33-31 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 16, 2025, ending their four-game losing streak and maintaining their position in the AFC North.
Key Moments and Game-Winning Play
The game was decided in the final seconds when Evan McPherson kicked a 36-yard field goal with only seven seconds remaining on the clock, sealing the narrow win for Cincinnati. The contest was marked by numerous momentum swings, with the Bengals rallying from an early deficit to pull ahead in the second half.
Performance of Bengals’ Quarterback and Offensive Stars
Quarterback Joe Flacco, making only his second start since being acquired by Cincinnati, delivered an impressive performance. He completed 31 of 47 passes for 342 yards and three touchdowns, all without throwing any interceptions, showing his efficiency under pressure.
Ja’Marr Chase was a standout receiver, setting a franchise record with 16 receptions for 161 yards and a touchdown. His performance pushed him past 6,000 career receiving yards in just 69 games, making him the fifth-fastest player in NFL history to reach that milestone. Chase’s contributions extend to his career touchdown count, which now stands at 50, solidifying his status as the team’s top scorer since entering the league in 2021.
Wide receiver Tee Higgins also contributed significantly with six catches for 96 yards and a touchdown, marking his second scoring reception of the season. His performance helped sustain the Bengals’ passing attack throughout the game.
Team and Defensive Efforts
The Bengals initially trailed 10-0 in the first half but managed to turn the game around, leading 17-10 at halftime. Their defense played a crucial role in the comeback, with interceptions from Jordan Battle and DJ Turner disrupting Steelers’ drives and providing turnovers that fueled Cincinnati’s scoring runs.
Standing out on the ground, Chase Brown achieved his best rushing performance of the season, rushing for 106 yards on just 10 carries. His explosiveness added a crucial dimension to Cincinnati’s offense as the game progressed.
Steelers’ Performance and Key Players
The Steelers were led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who connected on 35 passes for 382 yards, including two touchdowns. However, his efforts also included two interceptions, which hampered their offensive momentum and contributed to their narrow defeat.
Standings and Audience
With this victory, the Bengals improved to a 3-4 record, while the Steelers dropped to 4-2. Despite the loss, Pittsburgh remains at the top of the AFC North. The game drew a crowd of 66,569 spectators, many dressed in a coordinated “white Bengal” theme at Paycor Stadium, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Implications and Next Matchup
The win is a vital boost for Cincinnati, helping to keep them ahead of divisional rivals such as the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens, both currently sitting at a 1-5 record. Looking ahead, the Bengals will host the New York Jets on October 26, 2025, at Paycor Stadium for their next game.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Claim Top Spot in NFL Power Rankings
Additional Resources
- NFL: Steelers vs Bengals Recap
- Cincinnati.com: Bengals vs Steelers Live Updates
- Bengals.com: Postgame Recap
- SI: Joey Porter Jr Calls Out Refs
- Google Search: Bengals Steelers Oct 16 2025
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