Halftime Observations: Cincinnati Bengals Trail Pittsburgh Steelers 20-17 in Wacky First Half

Cincinnati is hoping to improve to 6-4 on the season.

Author:
James Rapien
Publish date:
Nov 20, 2022 5:56 PM EST

In this story:

PITTSBURGH — The Bengals trail the Steelers 20-17 at halftime. Both teams have moved up and down the field on offense and struggled to get stops on defense.

Here are some halftime observations:

Fast Start

The Bengals scored on three of their first four possessions of the game. They led 3-0 early and took a 10-3 lead into the second quarter.

The Steelers tied the game at 10, but it didn't last long.

Joe Burrow led the Bengals on a 10-play, 92-yard scoring drive that ended with an 11-yard touchdown to Perine.

Burrow completed 12-of-14 passes for 165 yards and two touchdowns on the Bengals' first four possessions. He finished the half 14-of-20 for 194 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

The turnover happened late in the first half on a pass that was tipped at the line of scrimmage.

Defense Struggling

Cincinnati's defense struggled to stop Pittsburgh for most of the first half. The Steelers were 5-of-7 on third down and scored on four-straight possessions. Pittsburgh only punted once in the half.

Entering Sunday's game, the Steelers didn't have a touchdown of 10 or more yards this season. They scored from 19 and 24 yards in the first half.

Running Backs Playing Well

Perine has three receptions for 46 yards and two touchdowns. He also has one rush attempt for six yards.

Joe Mixon also had a nice first half. He has 20 yards rushing and 42 yards receiving.

The Bengals Will Win If...

They continue to protect Burrow and open up holes on the ground. Their quick passing game kept the Steelers' defense on their heels for most of the first half.

Cincinnati's defense needs to make some tweaks. The Steelers didn't have any trouble moving the ball up and down the field. The Bengals also need to find a way to force a turnover or two.

Pittsburgh receives the ball to start the second half.

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