The Pittsburgh Steelers faced a disappointing loss against the Cincinnati Bengals on October 16, 2025, marking yet another frustrating chapter in a recurring narrative under head coach Mike Tomlin. The Steelers struggled to contain Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco, who threw for 342 yards and connected with star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase 16 times during the game.
After a promising start, the contest turned into a back-and-forth battle in the second half. The Bengals capitalized on the Steelers’ defensive lapses, highlighted by Flacco’s efficient passing and the lack of communication among the Steelers’ defenders. Flacco’s quick releases often left Chase wide open, allowing him to exploit the Steelers’ coverage for substantial gains.
Defensive Struggles and Offensive Highlights
The Steelers’ defense appeared unable to adjust throughout the game. Flacco’s ability to operate under pressure, often taking less than 2.5 seconds to get the ball out, was indicative of the Bengals’ offensive dominance. This culminated in a decisive final drive where the Bengals gained 46 yards on two consecutive plays, setting up a field goal opportunity that could have sealed the game.
While the Steelers’ offense showcased moments of brilliance, particularly from tight end Pat Freiermuth, who recorded over 100 yards and two touchdowns, it was not enough to compensate for the defensive shortcomings. The Steelers’ offensive line allowed two critical turnovers, adding to the team’s woes.
In stark contrast, the Bengals’ running back Chase Brown had a breakout performance with 108 rushing yards, underscoring the Bengals’ ability to exploit the Steelers’ vulnerabilities. The Bengals, who typically averaged only 56 rushing yards per game, found significant success against the Steelers’ front.
Tomlin’s team now holds a troubling record of 0-7 on Thursday Night Football against divisional opponents, with a broader record of 2-10 in such matchups. The performance echoed past games, including a similar loss to the Indianapolis Colts in the previous season, leaving fans questioning the team’s ability to capitalize on division opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Aspirations
Despite the setback, the Steelers remain in contention for a playoff berth this season. However, the recurring themes of defensive miscommunications and critical errors raise concerns about their postseason prospects. The Steelers must address these issues if they hope to turn their season around and avoid repeating past mistakes.
As the season progresses, the Steelers will need to regroup and examine the lessons from this defeat. The question remains whether they can overcome these challenges and find a way to triumph in upcoming matchups, or if they will continue to be haunted by familiar setbacks.