In a stunning Thursday night showdown, the Cincinnati Bengals edged out a nail-biting 33-31 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 16, 2025. This game was a testament to the enduring talent of veteran quarterbacks and the unpredictable nature of NFL football. Let's dive into the details!
Joe Flacco, acquired from the Cleveland Browns just a week prior, put on a passing clinic. The 40-year-old quarterback threw for an impressive 342 yards and three touchdowns, demonstrating that age is just a number. His performance was crucial, completing 31 of 47 passes in only his second start for Cincinnati.
Facing off against him was 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers, who also delivered a strong performance. Rodgers threw for 244 yards and four touchdowns, but also had two interceptions. The game marked only the third regular-season contest in NFL history featuring starting quarterbacks both in their forties.
The game was filled with dramatic shifts in momentum. Rodgers put the Steelers ahead 31-30 with just over two minutes left, thanks to a 68-yard touchdown pass to Pat Freiermuth. But Flacco wasn't done. He orchestrated a 52-yard drive that set up a game-winning 36-yard field goal by Evan McPherson with only seven seconds remaining. Talk about pressure!
Key players stepped up in crucial moments. Ja'Marr Chase had a phenomenal game with 16 receptions for 161 yards and a touchdown, making him only the fourth receiver in NFL history with two games of at least 14 catches in a single season. Tee Higgins added 96 receiving yards, and Chase Brown contributed 108 rushing yards. On the Steelers' side, Freiermuth had 106 receiving yards, and Jaylen Warren ran for 127 yards.
Injuries played a role in the game. Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson was inactive due to a hip injury.
Up next: The Steelers will host Green Bay, and the Bengals will face the New York Jets on October 26th.
But here's where it gets controversial... Did the Steelers' defense underestimate Flacco, or did the Bengals' offense simply execute better under pressure? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Did you see any other key moments? Let's discuss!
