Imagine two NFL legends, both in their 40s, duking it out in a primetime showdown that comes down to the final seconds. That’s exactly what happened when the Cincinnati Bengals edged out the Pittsburgh Steelers 33-31 in a thriller on October 16, 2025. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was this a victory of experience or a testament to the Bengals’ resilience after a four-game slump? Let’s dive in.
Joe Flacco, the 40-year-old quarterback acquired from the Cleveland Browns just nine days prior, delivered a performance that defied his age. In his second start for Cincinnati, Flacco threw for 342 yards and three touchdowns, completing 31 of 47 passes. His counterpart, the equally seasoned 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers, wasn’t far behind, tossing four touchdowns and two interceptions for 244 yards. This marked only the third time in NFL history that two starting quarterbacks in their 40s faced off in a regular-season game—a historic moment that raises the question: Are we witnessing the dawn of a new era for veteran QBs?
The game’s climax came with just seven seconds left. After Rodgers connected with Pat Freiermuth on a jaw-dropping 68-yard touchdown to give the Steelers a 31-30 lead with 2:31 remaining, Flacco calmly led the Bengals down the field. Key completions to Ja’Marr Chase (15 and 18 yards) and a 28-yard strike to Tee Higgins set up Evan McPherson’s game-winning 36-yard field goal. And this is the part most people miss: Chase’s 16 receptions for 161 yards and a touchdown made him just the fourth receiver in NFL history with two games of at least 14 catches in a single season. Is he the most underrated receiver in the league right now?
For the Steelers, Freiermuth’s four catches for 106 yards and two touchdowns were a bright spot, as was Jaylen Warren’s 127 rushing yards on 16 carries. Meanwhile, Chase Brown’s 108 rushing yards on 11 carries showcased the Bengals’ balanced attack. Here’s the controversial take: Did the Steelers’ defense underestimate Flacco’s ability to lead a late-game drive, or was it simply a matter of execution?
Injuries played a role, too. Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson was inactive due to a hip injury suffered the previous week against Green Bay. Looking ahead, the Steelers host the Packers on October 26, while the Bengals welcome the New York Jets the same day. What do you think? Did Flacco’s experience make the difference, or was this just a fluke win for the Bengals? Let us know in the comments!
