Cincinnati Bengals shake up AFC North, playoff picture with Steelers upset

The Cincinnati Bengals scored a major upset and shook up the AFC North.

Before Monday Night Football in Week 15, the Cincinnati Bengals caught sight of wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster dancing on their logo and, apparently, took it personally. In fact, they weren’t the only team to have that happen to them. Like the Bills,  who also endured the disrespect, they simply got even during the game with a victory with safety Vonn Bell providing a message of his own.

Cincinnati’s 27-17 victory snapped a long losing streak to their bitter rivals, and they did it of course with a third-string quarterback. While the Steelers now have lost three straight, the Bengals still have questions about those who protect the quarterback and the ones getting after the opposition.

A win tonight, however, eases those questions and instead brings a sign of holiday cheer and realization that Cincinnati may be experiencing signs of change. For years the franchise has accumulated talent, but an undisciplined culture hindered progress. Nonetheless, there is plenty left to be accomplished even after a victory that brings joy to many folks who are accustomed to misery.

The Cincinnati Bengals prevailed against a rival, but doubts linger for the future

Ryan Finley‘s 23-yard touchdown run was a sign of joy, yet he only managed 89 yards on the night passing. Furthermore, Cincinnati only managed 152 yards total rushing between four ball carriers, with Giovanni Bernard being largely responsible for 55% of the workload.

Defensively, Carl Lawson was the only player to produce pressure with a sack as Ben Roethlisberger mostly dug his own grave by missing open targets and hindering the offense early by going into halftime 17-0. The Bengals victory only adds to the notion that the 11-0 start that Pittsburgh enjoyed looks to be more of a fluke, and opened a door of opportunity for the Cleveland Browns. In other words, this victory shook up the division.

The Bengals aren’t going to the postseason this year and are happy to play spoiler. However, while the win is impressive, there are questions that need answers and the offseason is closing in. That being said, the Bengals must use this game as a reminder that with better talent can come better results. For now, they snapped their losing streak and extended a rival’s streak. Another gift for the holiday season.