STEELERS WEEK 11: RODGERS BANGED UP

This was a massive game for the Pittsburgh Steelers — not just because it was a divisional matchup, but because the Bengals beat them the last time these two teams met just a couple weeks ago.

 

It was the UNC Bowl 2.0, and unfortunately… it didn’t last long.

 

The Steelers came out firing, jumping all over Cincinnati early. For a moment it felt like we were about to watch the cleanest offensive performance Pittsburgh has put together all season. That was especially true for Kenneth Gainwell, who had the best receiving game of his Steelers career.

 

His rushing numbers won’t impress anyone — 24 yards on 9 carries — but the magic came through the air. Gainwell hauled in 7 receptions for 81 yards and two touchdowns, becoming the unexpected star of the afternoon.

 

The offense did its job, but the real story was the defense. Pittsburgh held this Cincinnati offense to just 12 points — the same offense that hung 33 on them in their first meeting. It was a dominant and badly-needed statement from a defense that has been inconsistent all season.

 

Unfortunately, the UNC Bowl fell apart quickly when Aaron Rodgers went down with a left-wrist injury. Despite playing through a fracture for a while (thankfully it wasn’t his throwing wrist), Rodgers didn’t return after halftime. Mason Rudolph took over.

 

To his credit, Rudolph stepped in and played well: 12/16, 127 yards, one touchdown, 118 QBR. Exactly what you want from your backup in a must-win situation.

 

This was a big-time revenge game — and beyond that, the Steelers needed this win to hold onto first place in the AFC North, especially with the Ravens suddenly heating up. As of now, Pittsburgh still leads the division by one game.

 

Next up: a tough road matchup against the Chicago Bears.

The big question: Will Aaron Rodgers be able to play, or will Mason Rudolph get the start? Either way, the key will be whether this Steelers defense can slow down Ben Johnson’s offense and rookie QB Caleb Williams.

 

The Moment Everyone Saw

 

Before wrapping up, we have to talk about that moment — the one that’s already gone viral.

 

Steelers CB Jalen Ramsey punched Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase early in the fourth quarter. Ramsey later explained that Chase spit on him. Chase denied it… but apparently forgot what year it is. In 2025, there’s a camera on everything, and the footage clearly shows Chase spitting.

 

Chase appealed his one-game suspension, but the league denied it — rightfully so.

 

Mike Tomlin was asked if he advised Ramsey to remove himself from situations like that.

 

His response?

 

“I have no message if someone spits in your face.”

pause

“Do what comes natural.”

 

A classic Tomlin line — and honestly one of his all-time best quotes. 

 

AFC North Standings After Week 11

 

Steelers: 6–4

Ravens: 5–5

Bengals: 3–7

Browns: 2–8