By Jared Villani
SteelerNation.com
The Pittsburgh Steelers got off to an incredibly slow start on offense to start this division rivalry matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, but the defense stayed strong to compensate for the lackluster play of the offense.
Chris Boswell built upon his strong campaign and added the first points on the board for the day with a 26-yard field goal to put Pittsburgh up 3 to 0.
It didn't take the Bengals long to answer back as rookie quarterback Ryan Finley and Cincy's top wideout Tyler Boyd were connecting big-time with a huge 47-yard gain, followed by a touchdown connection to take the lead. Cincinnati now leads 7 to 3 over the Steelers to head into the second half.
After a disappointing outing by Steelers quarterback, Mason Rudolph, it was time for the Steelers to turn to Devlin "Duck" Hodges. On his first drive, he came out with a statement. Hodges found wide receiver James Washington for a 79-yard touchdown connection to regain the lead over the Bengals. Steelers now lead again 10 to 7.
DO NOT GET IN @JamesWashington's WAY!! pic.twitter.com/geUiqBIiU7
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) November 24, 2019
From this point on, everything was left up to the defense and kickers of both teams and it just so happened the Steelers relentless pressure from the likes of T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward haunted Finley for the most of the afternoon.
Cincy answered back after Washington's touchdown with a field goal from 27 yards out to tie the game at 10 a piece.
Although Hodges didn't perform as well after his impressive first drive, his ability to manage the game as well as a brutal running attack from Benny Snell Jr. and newly acquired Kerrith Whyte, was more than enough to best Cincinnati's defense.
Boswell's efficiency this season would continue with two field goals from 47 and 26 yards were enough to seal the deal for Pittsburgh in this back and forth, lackluster showdown. Pittsburgh takes their second victory against Cincinnati this season, this time 16 to 10.
Steelers Stat Leaders
Devlin Hodges 5 for 11 118 Yards 1 Touchdown
Benny Snell Jr. 21 for 98 Yards
James Washington 3 Receptions 98 Yards 1 Touchdown
Cameron Heyward and Mark Barron 6 Tackles 1 Sack Each
