Little pressed for time this morning, so let’s skip my pithy statement and get right to it.
Steelers 44, Bengals 38
In a classic NFL “track meet”, the Steelers managed just enough defense to keep the Bengals offense at bay, while the Bengals defense barely registered.
Steelers QB Russell Wilson (29-38, 414 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT) delivered his best game in a Steelers uniform, as five receivers caught at least three passes, led by TE Pat Freiermuth’s six catches for 68 yards and a TD. Standouts on defense include S Deshon Elliott (11 tackles) and LB T.J. Watt (3 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 TFL).
The Bengals kept pace behind QB Joe Burrow’s (28-38, 309 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT) very good day, delivering at least three completions to six receivers, led by WR Ja’Marr Chase’s (6 catches, 86 yards, 1 TD) effort. There’s not much to compliment on defense for the Bengals, but there’s always 13 tackles each from LBs Germaine Pratt and Akeem Davis-Gaither to fall back on.
Next for Steelers: Browns @ Steelers, 12/8, 1:00 pm, CBS
Next for Bengals: Bengals @ Cowboys, 12/9, 8:15 pm, ESPN (the Simpsons broadcast is simulcast on ESPN+)
Eagles 24, Ravens 19
In a matchup of supposed NFL “heavyweights”, the Eagles prevailed over the unraveling Ravens, who appear to have several pertinent questions to answer if they’re going to have any impact in the playoffs…or even get there.
Despite outgaining the Eagles, the Ravens were unable to put up points due to some excellent Philadelphia defense, particularly on the defensive line. When he wasn’t backpedaling to (fruitlessly) avoid sacks, Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (23-36, 237 yards, 2 TDs) was passing up obvious rushing opportunities and missing several open receivers. RB Derrick Henry managed 82 yards on 19 carries, but was unable to power into the end zone. TE Mark Andrews led the team with six catches for 67 yards and a TD.
Defensively, the Ravens were led by LB Roquan Smith’s 11 tackles and rejuvenated S Ar’Darius Washington’s eight tackles, including two for backfield losses.
K Justin Tucker’s two crucial FG misses and missed PAT sealed the Ravens’ doom.
Next: Bye
Browns 32, Broncos 41
The Browns rallied late. Until they didn’t.
Despite Browns QB Jameis Winston’s 497 yards and four TD passes, his three interceptions (two for TDs, including a late, game-altering score) served to defeat the Browns, who kept valiant pace throughout despite Winston’s errors. WR Jerry Jeudy’s nine catches for 235 yards and a TD led all receivers, trailed by WR Elijah Moore (8 catches, 111 yards).
LB Jordan Hicks led the team with 12 tackles, and CBs Greg Newsome II and Denzel Ward each pulled in an INT. DE Myles Garrett was uncharacteristically held sackless, managing just four tackles.
Next: Browns @ Steelers, 12/8, 1:00 pm, CBS
See you next week.
