The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for a crucial divisional matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, following a 25-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin praised linebacker Patrick Queen's communication skills amid ongoing tackling concerns, while offensive lineman Broderick Jones manages a recurring groin injury. Analysts warn that a loss could jeopardize Pittsburgh's AFC North lead.
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Teryl Austin highlighted linebacker Patrick Queen's progress during Thursday's media session. "I think he’s played well," Austin said. "He’s done an outstanding job" as the defensive quarterback, calling plays and making checks. Despite Queen's self-criticism, Austin noted his growth, though missed tackles remain an issue with 18 charged through nine games and a 21-percent rate.
The Steelers' defense ranks third in the league with 16 takeaways, but cornerback Joey Porter Jr. emphasized broader efficiency. "Who doesn’t want turnovers?" Porter said. "Be efficient in everything else. Stopping the run, getting your hands on balls, getting off on third down." The unit recorded five sacks against the Chargers but couldn't force turnovers in the 25-10 defeat.
On offense, left tackle Broderick Jones addressed his groin injury after limited Thursday practice. "Yeah, pretty much, basically," he confirmed it matches the training camp issue. Jones has played every snap this season but allowed two sacks and seven pressures over the last three games. Offensive line coach Arthur Smith defended veteran Andrus Peat's brief outing against the Chargers, where Peat incurred a false start. "Peat has done a good job," Smith said. "Played a lot of good football in this league."
Rookie quarterback Will Howard, recently activated from injured reserve, detailed his learning from Aaron Rodgers. "I literally have like a Word document of just like nuggets that I get from Aaron every day," Howard said.
Veteran Cam Heyward walked back postgame comments on trust issues after the Chargers loss. "I take losses very hard," he explained. "There’s just hesitation there a couple times."
Analyst Mike Florio predicted a Steelers win, 28-20, but cautioned, "If they lose this one, they are done." Gregg Rosenthal agreed, calling a sweep by Joe Flacco-led Bengals an "embarrassment." The Steelers, at 5-4, lead the AFC North by one game over the Ravens, with the 3-6 Bengals seeking momentum.