Bengals Stumble in Pittsburgh: Flacco and Offense Struggle in 34-12 Loss

The Cincinnati Bengals’ disappointing season continued on March 3, 2024, as they suffered a heavy defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers, ending the game at 34-12. This loss marked a significant low point for the Bengals, dropping their record to 2-8. Pro Football Focus (PFF) assessed the performance of the Bengals’ offense, providing grades that reflect the effectiveness of individual players during the game.

The PFF grading system evaluates players on a scale from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating superior performance. According to PFF, a score of 100-90 is considered elite, while scores of 89-85 represent Pro Bowl caliber. Performance grades of 84-70 are categorized as starter-level, 69-60 as backup, and anything below 60 is deemed replaceable.

In this matchup, the Bengals’ quarterback, Joe Flacco, struggled significantly, earning a score of just 37.8 over 66 snaps. His performance was a factor in the team’s inability to mount a successful offensive effort against the Steelers. Flacco’s challenges in the pocket were evident, and the Bengals’ offense failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Offensive Performance Breakdown

The Bengals’ running game also had its difficulties. Chase Brown was the standout among running backs with a score of 65.7 over 54 snaps. In contrast, Tahj Brooks and Kendall Milton received lower grades of 53.8 and 47.7, respectively. This lack of production from the running backs hurt the overall offensive strategy.

The wide receiver corps showed some promise, particularly Tee Higgins, who earned a score of 67.1 over 61 snaps. However, other key receivers struggled to make an impact. Notably, Ja’Marr Chase recorded a grade of 55.1 on 64 snaps, reflecting the overall offensive shortcomings. Andrei Iosivas and Mitchell Tinsley followed with grades of 60.6 and 57.0 respectively, indicating a lack of cohesion among the receiving unit.

The tight ends also had a mixed performance. Drew Sample led the group with a grade of 67.7, while Tanner Hudson and Noah Fant received scores of 53.6 and 51.0, respectively, highlighting the inconsistency in the passing game.

The offensive line, which plays a crucial role in protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes, delivered subpar performances as well. Ted Karras was the highest-graded lineman with a score of 68.9 over 66 snaps. Dalton Risner followed closely with 66.2, while Orlando Brown Jr. and Jalen Rivers struggled significantly, earning grades of 41.0 and 37.3 respectively.

The Bengals’ offensive struggles were compounded by a dominant performance from the Steelers’ defense, which included standout players such as Brandin Echols and James Pierre, who received grades of 87.8 and 80.9, respectively.

Looking Ahead

Following this defeat, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expressed concern over the team’s performance, noting that this was one of their worst offensive outings since acquiring Flacco. The Bengals will need to regroup and address their offensive inefficiencies in the coming weeks if they hope to turn their season around.

As the team prepares for future matchups, the focus will be on improving both the offensive line’s protection and the effectiveness of their skill position players. With a season record that now sits at 2-8, the Bengals face an uphill battle as they look to salvage their remaining games.