Gregory Shamus
For the first time in 30 years, the Bengals are heading to the postseason in consecutive seasons after clinching a spot Sunday afternoon.
Needing a victory to clinch their spot in the postseason, the Cincinnati Bengals came through with a tight 13-10 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday afternoon. It's the first time in 30 years that the Cincinnati franchise has reached the playoffs in back-to-back seasons.
After initially bursting out to a 10-0 lead in the first half thanks to a pick-six by cornerback Leon Hall, the Bengals couldn't pull away as the Steelers fought for their postseason lives. Pittsburgh battled back to tie the game in the third quarter, though the Steelers could never take the lead.
At one point late in the fourth quarter, the Steelers had an opportunity to take the lead on a field goal attempt from Shaun Suisham, but the kick got caught in the swirling winds of Heinz Field and missed. Josh Brown didn't have the same issue with seconds left in regulation, knocking through a 43-yard kick to effectively give Cincinnati the game.
The Bengals mustered just 14 rushing yards, committed seven penalties and turned the ball over three times, but they forced an equally mistake-ridden performance out of the Steelers. Pittsburgh had a more balanced offensive attack, but they also had three turnovers while producing even more penalty yardage.
Fantasy Studs/Duds
In a game dominated by defense, there were few major offense performances. The leading receivers from both teams played well, as A.J. Green caught 10 passes for 116 yards and Antonio Brown caught five passes for 97 yards and a score.
For more on fantasy football, check out SB Nation's fantasy hub.
Odds
The Steelers were favored by four points, so they obviously did not cover.
For more on odds and gambling, check out SB Nation's NFL odds page.
Injury Info
The Steelers lost running back Baron Batch in the first half with a right arm injury, plus cornerback Curtis Brown in the second half to a left ankle injury.
Next Up
The Steelers take on the Cleveland Browns next week while the Bengals host the Baltimore Ravens.
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