Andy Dalton shook off a pair of fourth-quarter interceptions to hit A.J. Green for the go-ahead touchdown in the Cincinnati Bengals' 16-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 8. Here's what you need to know:
- For the first time this season, the Bengals' stalwart offensive line lost the battle at the line of scrimmage. The Steelers' speedy young defense gave Dalton fits, sacking him three times, forcing the two interceptions and adding seven tackles for loss. To Dalton's credit, he kept his composure, highlighted by a improvised third-down shovel pass to Giovani Bernard en route to the game-winning touchdown. The Bengals are 7-0 for the first time in franchise history, cruising to a 3.5-game lead over the Steelers. The AFC North could be the first division to declare a winner this season.
- The Steelers seemed to be in control of the game until the air went out of the stadium when star running back Le'Veon Bellwent down with a knee injury in the middle of the second quarter. Bell left the premises for further testing, and NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport later reported that he suffered a torn MCL and is likely out for the season. The offseason investment in DeAngelo Williams looms ever larger. The former PanthersPro Bowler has averaged 5.5 yards on 50 carries with Bell sidelined by suspension or injury.
- Our first look at a post-injury Ben Roethlisberger was a mixed bag. He was impressive in leading the Steelers on a methodical opening-drive touchdown, turning Antonio Brown back into an unstoppable force for a few minutes. Once Bell left the game, though, Pittsburgh's offense went in the tank. Roethlisberger lacked his usual pocket agility -- as one would expect in his first game back from a knee sprain -- and thwarted the Steelers' chances with a fourth-quarter performance that featured a pair of interceptions, two drives that ended in punts and a pass thrown out of the back of the end zone as time expired.
- A.J. Green carried the Bengals' offense with 11 catches for 118 yards and the game-winning touchdown. This game marks the fourth consecutive time Green has recorded at least eight catches against the Steelers. Even with Dalton enjoying a career year, Green is the best player on the team, on pace for career highs in receptions (105) and receiving yards (1,483).
- Linebacker Vontaze Burfict had a major impact in his return to Cincinnati's base defense. Burfict tied for second on the team with five tackles, including the hit that knocked Bell out of the game.
- Steelers tight end Heath Miller deserves kudos for his sterling performance, which featured a series of tough catches in heavy traffic.
