Bengals vs Pittsburgh Steelers Match Player Stats: 4-Game AFC North Analysis
Looking at the bengals vs pittsburgh steelers match player stats reveals one of the NFL’s most intense divisional rivalries. I’ve analyzed their recent head-to-head battles to bring you the critical numbers that shaped these games and the players who made the difference when it mattered most.
The Evolution of a Storied Rivalry
The Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers represent one of the NFL’s fiercest divisional rivalries. Dating back to their first encounter in 1970, these AFC North foes have faced off over 110 times, with the Steelers holding a historical edge of 71-40 in the all-time series.
While Pittsburgh has historically dominated this rivalry, recent matchups suggest a more competitive balance developing. Let’s dive into the four most recent encounters to understand how this rivalry has evolved through player performances and critical game situations.
November 26, 2023: Steelers Control the Clock (16-10)
This away victory for the Steelers showcased their ability to dominate possession and field position despite relatively modest scoring.
Key Team Stats:
- Time of Possession: Steelers controlled the game with 37:17 vs Bengals’ 22:43
- Total Yards: Steelers 421, Bengals 222
- Rushing Yards: Steelers established dominance with 153, Bengals struggled with just 25
- Third Down Efficiency: Bengals converted only 2 of 10 attempts
Offensive Standouts:
- Kenny Pickett (PIT): Achieved a season-high with 24/33 for 278 yards
- Najee Harris (PIT): Nearly hit the century mark with 15 carries for 99 yards and the game’s only rushing TD
- Pat Freiermuth (PIT): Career-best performance with 9 catches for 120 yards
- Jake Browning (CIN): Making his first NFL start, went 19/26 for 227 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
- Ja’Marr Chase (CIN): Led Bengals receivers with 4 catches for 81 yards
Defensive Game-Changers:
- T.J. Watt (PIT): Dominant with 2 sacks, a forced fumble, and 5 tackles (PFF grade: 88.8)
- Alex Highsmith (PIT): Generated consistent pressure with 7 QB pressures (PFF grade: 77.1)
- Trenton Thompson (PIT): Secured a crucial interception
The absence of Joe Burrow due to injury proved significant for Cincinnati, as they struggled to maintain drives with their backup quarterback despite some flashes of potential.
December 23, 2023: Pickens’ Breakout Game (34-11)
The Steelers delivered a decisive victory at home, with veteran QB Mason Rudolph making his first start in over two years and George Pickens having a career day.
Key Team Stats:
- Total Yards: Fairly close with Steelers 397, Bengals 368
- Passing Disparity: Bengals 335, Steelers 284
- Turnover Battle: The decisive factor – Steelers 0, Bengals 4
Offensive Explosions:
- Mason Rudolph (PIT): Impressive return with 17/27 for 290 yards, 2 TDs
- George Pickens (PIT): Absolutely erupted with 4 catches for 195 yards and 2 TDs (PFF grade: 90.1)
- Jake Browning (CIN): Volume without efficiency – 28/42 for 335 yards, 1 TD, 3 costly INTs
- Tee Higgins (CIN): Strong in defeat with 5 catches for 140 yards, 1 TD
Defensive Dominators:
- Alex Highsmith (PIT): Elite performance with an interception (PFF grade: 91.9)
- T.J. Watt (PIT): Continued his disruptive ways with a strip-sack (PFF grade: 91.1)
- Eric Rowe & Patrick Peterson (PIT): Each added interceptions
This game highlighted the importance of ball security, as the Bengals’ four turnovers directly translated to multiple Steelers scoring opportunities. Despite comparable yardage totals, the turnover differential proved insurmountable for Cincinnati.
December 1, 2024: Offensive Fireworks (44-38)
This high-scoring affair set a record for the most points (82) in the rivalry’s history, showcasing offensive firepower from both teams.
Key Team Stats:
- Total Yards: Steelers 520, Bengals 375
- Passing Explosion: Steelers 410, Bengals 282
- Time of Possession: Steelers maintained a slight edge at 31:09 vs 28:51
Offensive Stars:
- Russell Wilson (PIT): Career-defining performance with 29/38 for 414 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
- Najee Harris (PIT): Dual-threat with 16 carries for 75 yards, 1 TD plus 6 catches for 54 yards
- Joe Burrow (CIN): Strong passing day marred by turnovers – 28/38 for 309 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, 2 fumbles
- Chase Brown (CIN): Rare bright spot in Cincinnati’s ground game with 12 carries for 70 yards, 1 TD
- Ja’Marr Chase (CIN): Reliable as always with 6 catches for 86 yards, 1 TD
Defensive Impact Plays:
- Nick Herbig (PIT): Game-changing strip-sack resulting in a 21-yard TD return (PFF grade: 91.9)
- T.J. Watt (PIT): Added 2 more sacks to his impressive total
- Cam Taylor-Britt (CIN): Pick-six providing rare defensive points for Cincinnati
This game demonstrated both teams’ offensive capabilities when their star quarterbacks were healthy. Despite the Steelers’ dominance in yardage, defensive and special teams touchdowns kept this contest close until the final minutes.
January 4, 2025: Bengals Control the Clock (19-17)
The Bengals finally broke through with a victory by using Pittsburgh’s own formula against them – ball control and defensive pressure.
Key Team Stats:
- Time of Possession: Bengals dominated with 38:00 vs Steelers’ 22:00
- Plays Run: Bengals 71, Steelers 58
- Passing Effectiveness: Bengals 246 yards, Steelers limited to just 119
Offensive Contributors:
- Joe Burrow (CIN): Efficient and methodical – 37/46 for 277 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
- Ja’Marr Chase (CIN): Heavy workload with 10 catches for 96 yards, 1 TD
- Khalil Herbert (CIN): Consistent ground game with 20 carries for 69 yards
- Russell Wilson (PIT): Season-low production with 17/31 for 148 yards, 1 TD
- Pat Freiermuth (PIT): Lone bright spot with 8 catches for 85 yards, 1 TD
Defensive Dominance:
- Trey Hendrickson (CIN): Unblockable with 3.5 sacks and 5 tackles
- Beanie Bishop Jr. (PIT): Created the game’s lone turnover with an interception
- Keeanu Benton & Patrick Queen (PIT): Each recorded one sack
This victory showed Cincinnati’s ability to adapt their game plan, using a ball-control approach that had previously been Pittsburgh’s formula for success. The Bengals’ ability to protect Burrow and pressure Wilson proved decisive in the narrow win.
graph TD
subgraph "Game Results"
G1[Nov 26, 2023: Steelers 16-10 Bengals]
G2[Dec 23, 2023: Steelers 34-11 Bengals]
G3[Dec 1, 2024: Steelers 44-38 Bengals]
G4[Jan 4, 2025: Bengals 19-17 Steelers]
end
subgraph "Key Statistical Factors"
S1[Time of Possession]
S2[Turnover Margin]
S3[Rushing Yards]
S4[QB Pressure Rate]
S5[3rd Down Conversion %]
S6[Explosive Plays 20+ yards]
end
subgraph "Impact Players"
P1[T.J. Watt - Elite Edge Rusher]
P2[Ja'Marr Chase - WR1 Production]
P3[Najee Harris - Consistent Runner]
P4[George Pickens - Big Play Threat]
P5[Pat Freiermuth - Reliable TE]
P6[Trey Hendrickson - Pass Rush Force]
end
S1 -->|Steelers 37:17| G1
S1 -->|Steelers 31:49| G2
S1 -->|Steelers 31:09| G3
S1 -->|Bengals 38:00| G4
S3 -->|Steelers 153, Bengals 25| G1
S3 -->|Steelers 113, Bengals 59| G2
S3 -->|Steelers 110, Bengals 93| G3
S3 -->|Steelers 74, Bengals 68| G4
P1 -->|88.8 PFF Grade, 2 sacks| G1
P1 -->|91.1 PFF Grade| G2
P1 -->|67.6 PFF Grade, 2 sacks| G3
P1 -->|88.8 PFF Grade| G4
P2 -->|81 yards| G1
P2 -->|140 yards, 1 TD| G2
P2 -->|86 yards, 1 TD| G3
P2 -->|96 yards, 1 TD| G4
P6 -->|3.5 sacks, Game-Winner| G4Head-to-Head Matchup Analysis
Quarterback Battle Dynamics
Across these four matchups, the quarterback position showed fascinating contrasts:
Joe Burrow vs. Steelers Defense:
- Consistently completed 70%+ of his passes when healthy
- Struggled with Pittsburgh’s pressure packages, particularly against T.J. Watt
- More effective in games where Cincinnati established at least a modest running threat
- Demonstrated elite efficiency in the January 2025 win (37/46 completions)
Steelers QBs vs. Bengals Defense:
- Multiple quarterbacks found success against Cincinnati’s secondary
- Russell Wilson’s performances ranged from exceptional (414 yards) to limited (148 yards)
- Mason Rudolph exploited downfield opportunities against the Bengals’ coverage schemes
- Success often correlated with protection – when given time, all Steelers QBs were effective
This quarterback storyline mirrors what we’ve seen in other Steelers matchups against elite passers – Pittsburgh’s defense is designed to create pressure that disrupts even the most talented quarterbacks.
Ground Game Tactics
The rushing attack differential proved significant across all four games:
Steelers’ Approach:
- Najee Harris: Consistently productive with yardage ranging from 36-99 yards
- Utilized power running to establish physical dominance and control tempo
- Combined with play-action to create explosive passing opportunities
- Averaged 4.5+ yards per carry in their three victories
Bengals’ Challenges:
- Struggled to establish consistency with rushers averaging under 3.5 yards per carry in losses
- Joe Mixon limited to between 16-43 yards in his appearances
- Only found rushing success in their victory (Khalil Herbert, 69 yards)
- Over-reliance on passing made their offense predictable
This rushing disparity has been a consistent theme, similar to patterns seen in other Steelers divisional matchups where Pittsburgh’s physical front seven often dictates terms.
Elite Pass Catchers’ Impact
The receiving corps battle showcased some of the NFL’s premier talents:
Ja’Marr Chase Factor:
- Cincinnati’s most consistent offensive weapon
- Recorded 80+ yards in three games despite facing top coverage
- Particularly effective on crucial third downs
- Drew double teams that occasionally opened opportunities for teammates
Pittsburgh’s Diverse Targets:
- George Pickens: Explosive but inconsistent (195 yards in one game, 0 in another)
- Pat Freiermuth: Safety valve with reliable hands (120 and 85 yards in two games)
- Demonstrated ability to adapt to coverage schemes by distributing targets effectively
- More balanced attack with multiple receivers contributing in each game
The contrast in receiving corps performance suggests Cincinnati’s reliance on Chase creates both opportunities and limitations, while Pittsburgh’s more diversified approach offers multiple options against different coverage schemes.
Defensive Game-Changers
Several defensive standouts repeatedly influenced game outcomes:
T.J. Watt’s Dominance:
- Recorded sacks in three of four games
- Consistently elite PFF grades (88.8, 91.1, 67.6, 88.8)
- Generated pressure even when not recording sacks
- Forced critical turnovers at pivotal moments
Trey Hendrickson’s Evolution:
- Growing influence across the matchups
- Culminated in a dominant 3.5-sack performance in Cincinnati’s win
- Became the primary counter to Pittsburgh’s pass protection schemes
- Gradually improved against Pittsburgh’s offensive line adjustments
Secondary Coverage Battles:
- Pittsburgh’s cornerbacks effectively limited Cincinnati’s secondary receivers
- Bengals struggled to contain the Steelers’ tight ends in crucial situations
- Cam Taylor-Britt’s development improved Cincinnati’s coverage against Pickens
These defensive matchups reveal how individual brilliance can overcome even well-designed offensive game plans in crucial moments.
Strategic Coaching Elements
The coaching chess match between these rivals has evolved significantly:
Mike Tomlin’s Approach:
- Emphasized ball security (Pittsburgh had only 2 total turnovers across all four games)
- Adapted quarterback personnel to match team strengths
- Consistent focus on establishing the run regardless of quarterback
- Defensive pressure packages designed specifically for Burrow’s tendencies
Bengals’ Tactical Adjustments:
- Initially struggled with backup QB game planning
- Gradually improved protection schemes against Watt and Highsmith
- Successfully implemented time-of-possession strategy in their victory
- Defensive coordinator adjustments eventually contained Pittsburgh’s explosive plays
The strategic evolution resembles patterns seen in other Pittsburgh divisional matchups, where Mike Tomlin’s consistency often prevails over time.
PFF Insights: Beyond Box Scores
Pro Football Focus grades reveal nuances beyond traditional statistics:
- T.J. Watt’s Consistency: Maintained elite grades (88.8+) in three of four games despite varying sack totals
- George Pickens’ Variance: Spectacular 90.1 grade in his best game but just 42.1 in his worst
- Offensive Line Impact: Pittsburgh’s protection grades declined noticeably in their lone loss
- Coverage Efficiency: Cincinnati’s secondary grades improved dramatically from 2023 to 2025 games
These advanced metrics highlight how performance quality often transcends basic counting stats, particularly in trenches and coverage matchups.
Statistical Turning Points
Several key statistical thresholds emerged as predictive of game outcomes:
1. Third Down Success Rate
- When Cincinnati converted under 30% of third downs, they lost
- Pittsburgh won every game where they converted 40%+ of third downs
2. Time of Possession
- The team controlling the clock for 55%+ of game time won all four contests
- This proved more predictive than total yardage
3. Pressure Rate on QBs
- Games where Burrow faced pressure on 30%+ of dropbacks resulted in Cincinnati losses
- When Pittsburgh QBs were pressured on 25%+ of attempts, they lost
4. Explosive Plays (20+ yards)
- Pittsburgh generated 4+ explosive plays in each victory
- Cincinnati’s lone win featured 3 explosive passes while limiting Pittsburgh to just 1
These statistical indicators provide valuable predictive metrics for future matchups between these rivals.
FAQs About Bengals vs Pittsburgh Steelers Match Player Stats
Who holds the overall edge in recent Bengals vs Steelers matchups? The Steelers have won three of the four most recent matchups, though the Bengals’ January 2025 victory suggests the rivalry is becoming more competitive.
Which quarterback had the most impressive single-game performance? Russell Wilson’s 414-yard, 3-touchdown performance in December 2024 stands as the most statistically dominant quarterback showing in recent matchups.
Who has been the most consistent offensive player in the rivalry? Ja’Marr Chase has demonstrated the most consistent excellence, recording 80+ yards in three of the four games and scoring in two, despite often facing double coverage.
Which defensive player has had the greatest impact on game outcomes? T.J. Watt has been the most consistently disruptive force, generating pressure and recording sacks in multiple games while forcing crucial turnovers.
How important is the rushing attack in this rivalry? Extremely important – the team with more rushing yards won all four recent matchups, highlighting the significance of balanced offensive attack in this physical rivalry.
What tactical adjustments have proven most effective? The most successful adjustment has been Cincinnati’s increased commitment to time of possession in their victory, mirroring Pittsburgh’s usual approach.
How do injuries affect the rivalry dynamics? Joe Burrow’s absence in earlier matchups significantly limited Cincinnati’s offensive ceiling, while Pittsburgh demonstrated greater quarterback adaptability.
What role do turnovers play in determining the winner? Turnovers have been decisive – the team with fewer giveaways won three of the four games, with Cincinnati’s nine total turnovers significantly hampering their chances.
Future Matchup Projections
Based on the statistical trends and player matchups analyzed, several factors will likely determine upcoming Bengals-Steelers contests:
For Cincinnati to Succeed:
- Maintain at least 4.0 yards per carry in their rushing attack
- Provide Burrow with under 2.5-second average time to throw
- Contain T.J. Watt with consistent double-team attention
- Generate at least 2 turnovers defensively
For Pittsburgh to Maintain Advantage:
- Continue establishing Harris early in games (15+ carries)
- Target Freiermuth in middle-field matchups against Cincinnati linebackers
- Pressure Burrow with four-man rushes to maintain coverage integrity
- Limit Chase’s explosive plays while forcing targets to secondary receivers
As both teams continue developing their rosters, this rivalry appears poised to remain one of the AFC North’s most compelling matchups for seasons to come.
Final Analysis
These four recent matchups between the Bengals and Steelers showcase why this rivalry remains one of the NFL’s most captivating. The statistical narrative reveals a rivalry in transition – from Pittsburgh’s historical dominance to a more balanced competition where coaching adjustments and individual brilliance increasingly determine outcomes.
While the Steelers maintained their edge with three wins, Cincinnati’s strategic evolution in their January 2025 victory suggests they’ve identified a formula for success moving forward. The individual player matchups – particularly Chase vs. Pittsburgh’s secondary and Watt vs. Cincinnati’s protection schemes – have developed into fascinating subplots that merit continued attention.
For fans and analysts alike, studying the bengals vs pittsburgh steelers match player stats offers not just numerical insights but a window into the tactical chess match that defines one of football’s most enduring rivalries.
