The bengals vs pittsburgh steelers match player stats reveal far more than just a final score. This AFC North rivalry consistently turns on quarterback efficiency, defensive takeaways, and field position control. When these teams meet, the numbers usually explain exactly why one side pulls ahead.
In this breakdown, we analyze the latest matchup, compare quarterback production, review offensive and defensive leaders, examine historical rivalry stats, and explore advanced efficiency metrics. You’ll get context, not just box score totals.
Bengals vs Pittsburgh Steelers Match Player Stats Overview
In their latest meeting, Pittsburgh controlled the tempo and capitalized on turnovers.
Game Summary Table
| Category | Steelers | Bengals |
| Final Score | 34 | 12 |
| Total Yards | 361 | 287 |
| Turnovers | 0 | 2 |
| Time of Possession | 32:14 | 27:46 |
| Red Zone TDs | 3 | 1 |
The turnover margin and red zone efficiency defined the outcome. Pittsburgh protected the football and converted scoring opportunities. Cincinnati moved the ball but stalled in key situations.
In this rivalry, situational efficiency often outweighs total yardage.
Quarterback Performance Breakdown in Bengals vs Pittsburgh Steelers Match Player Stats
Quarterback play consistently shapes AFC North outcomes.
Quarterback Comparison
| Stat | Steelers QB | Bengals QB |
| Completions | 12/16 | 23/40 |
| Passing Yards | 127 | 199 |
| Touchdowns | 1 | 1 |
| Interceptions | 0 | 1 |
| QB Rating | 112.3 | 78.4 |
| Sacks Taken | 1 | 3 |
The Steelers quarterback delivered efficient throws and avoided negative plays. The Bengals quarterback accumulated yardage but faced heavier pressure and one costly interception.
Historically:
- Ben Roethlisberger posted a 24–10 record in the rivalry.
- Joe Burrow shifted momentum in the early 2020s.
- Playoff meetings favored Pittsburgh.
Efficiency and decision-making consistently matter more than volume.
Offensive Player Stats That Decided the Game
Skill position production swung momentum.
Offensive Leaders
| Category | Player | Stat Line |
| Leading Receiver | Steelers WR | 81 yards, 2 TD |
| Leading Rusher | Steelers RB | 67 yards |
| Longest Play | Steelers TE | 31-yard catch |
| Total Explosive Plays (20+) | Steelers | 4 |
Pittsburgh used tight ends effectively against zone coverage. Cincinnati struggled to convert third downs and protect the quarterback on deeper routes.
Red zone execution remains a recurring theme in this rivalry.
Defensive Player Stats & Game-Changing Plays
Defense often determines Bengals vs Steelers outcomes.
Defensive Impact Table
| Category | Steelers | Bengals |
| Sacks | 4 | 2 |
| Interceptions | 1 (TD return) | 0 |
| Fumble Recoveries | 1 | 0 |
| Defensive TDs | 2 | 0 |
| Penalty Yards | 45 | 78 |
A 74-yard interception return shifted momentum decisively. Defensive touchdowns amplify point differentials quickly, especially in divisional games.
Pressure rate and discipline often separate winners from losers in this matchup.
Turnover Battle & Field Position Analytics
Turnover margin remains the strongest predictor in this rivalry.
Recent trends show:
- Teams with +1 turnover margin win over 70% of meetings.
- Defensive scores dramatically alter expected points added.
- Average starting field position improves by over 10 yards after takeaways.
Short fields reduce offensive risk and increase scoring probability. Pittsburgh capitalized on that advantage.
Historical Player Stats in the Bengals–Steelers Rivalry
The all-time series favors Pittsburgh 72–41.
Rivalry Era Summary
| Era | Record Advantage |
| 1970s | Steelers |
| 1980s | Bengals |
| 1990s | Steelers |
| 2000s | Steelers |
| 2010s | Steelers |
| 2020s | Even |
Key historical notes:
- Largest win margin: Bengals 42–7 (1988)
- Lowest-scoring games: 7–3 (1976), 7–6 (1978)
- Playoff meetings: The Steelers won both
The rivalry evolved from defensive dominance to balanced offensive competition.
Playoff Matchups & High-Pressure Performances
Two postseason games intensified this rivalry.
| Year | Result | Key Factor |
| 2005 | Steelers 31–17 | 24 unanswered points |
| 2015 | Steelers 18–16 | Late field goal |
Postseason games emphasize discipline, defensive composure, and late-game execution.
Advanced Analytics & Efficiency Metrics
Modern analysis provides a deeper context.
Key efficiency indicators:
- Red Zone TD Rate
- Third-Down Conversion %
- Pressure Rate
- Expected Points Added (EPA)
- Time of Possession
Recent trends indicate:
- Pittsburgh is stronger in pressure rate
- Cincinnati is better at explosive-play generation
- Turnovers are creating major EPA swings
Advanced metrics reinforce what traditional stats show — efficiency wins.
What the Latest Match Player Stats Reveal About the AFC North Power Shift
The rivalry has tightened in recent seasons.
Emerging trends include:
- Smaller scoring margins
- Increased defensive scoring
- Greater quarterback mobility impact
- Playoff implications tied to divisional matchups
This rivalry continues to shape the AFC North standings annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who leads the all-time Bengals vs Steelers series?
The Pittsburgh Steelers lead the all-time series 72–41, including victories in both playoff matchups between the teams.
Which quarterback has the most wins in this rivalry?
Ben Roethlisberger holds the most wins, finishing with a dominant 24–10 record against Cincinnati during his career.
Do turnovers usually decide Bengals vs Steelers games?
Yes. Teams that win the turnover battle historically win most meetings, especially when defensive touchdowns are involved.
What was the highest-scoring Bengals vs Steelers game?
One of the highest combined scoring games occurred in 1995 when Pittsburgh rallied to win 49–31.
How often do these teams meet each season?
The Bengals and Steelers have played twice per regular season since 1970, except during the 1982 strike-shortened year.
