Bengals Rise with Joe Flacco: Stunning Win Reshapes AFC North

The Cincinnati Bengals revived their season with a remarkable 33-31 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 26, 2023. This turnaround follows the team’s decision to acquire veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, marking the most significant in-season trade in franchise history. Flacco’s performance, despite limited practice time, has injected new life into the Bengals’ offense and reignited their hopes in the AFC North division.

Flacco, who is 40 years old, threw for an impressive 342 yards and three touchdowns during the game. He achieved this feat after participating in only five practices since joining the team. His ability to connect with his teammates was evident, particularly with star receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who recorded a franchise record of 16 receptions for 161 yards and a touchdown.

The chemistry between Flacco and Chase, despite their limited practice together, has raised eyebrows. Chase himself admitted, “That’s a good question, I don’t know,” when asked about their on-field connection. The receiver missed practice time the previous week due to illness, and the Bengals conducted only walk-throughs leading up to the game. Nonetheless, Flacco made it clear he intended to focus on getting the ball to both Chase and Tee Higgins, resulting in 33 targets between the two.

With the passing game flourishing, the Bengals also improved their rushing attack, which had been struggling earlier in the season. Prior to Week 7, the team averaged a mere 56.7 rushing yards per game, the lowest in the NFL. However, Flacco’s presence opened up opportunities for running back Chase Brown, who surpassed 100 rushing yards for only the second time in his career, finishing with 108 yards. The team combined for 142 rushing yards, their highest total since Week 18 of the previous season.

The game featured unexpected plays, including a notable 12-yard run by Flacco on a zone read, a decision that surprised head coach Zac Taylor. Taylor stated, “I was shocked. … It was a zone read that never in a million years we would keep.” Such moments illustrate the unpredictability that often accompanies a quarterback who is still integrating into a new system.

Looking ahead, the Bengals, now with a record of 3-4, find themselves back in contention within the AFC North. The Steelers, who held a 4-1 record prior to the matchup, had hoped to gain a stronger foothold in the division. The Bengals will face the New York Jets, the Chicago Bears, and then have a bye week before playing the Steelers again. Conversely, the Steelers will take on the Green Bay Packers and the Indianapolis Colts, followed by a challenging matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.

As the season progresses, the Bengals benefit from a relatively easier schedule, with five of their remaining ten games against teams that currently have one or no wins. This situation places them in a favorable position to challenge for the division title.

The trade for Flacco has sparked mixed reactions, particularly from rival coaches. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin expressed frustration about the trade, noting how it could bolster the Bengals’ chances. Cincinnati fans, however, are grateful for the acquisition, with kicker Evan McPherson emphasizing Flacco’s positive influence on the team. McPherson said, “I love Joe. I love his attitude and what he brings to the team.”

As the Bengals look to capitalize on their recent success, Flacco’s leadership and experience could prove crucial in their pursuit of a postseason berth. The AFC North is wide open, and the Bengals have positioned themselves as strong contenders, thanks in large part to their new quarterback.