Steelers @ Bengals: Zac Taylor douses his hot seat with cold water

Cincinnati Bengals’ head coach Zac Taylor made a case for another year at the helm as his club took down their bitter rivals, the Pittsburg Steelers.

Entering a primetime matchup against the Pittsburg Steelers, not many believed the Cincinnati Bengals had a chance against their AFC North Rivals. Shortly after kickoff, those doubters were proved wrong, as Zac Taylor’s squad came out with an intensity that had not been seen so far this season. Thanks to a tremendous gameplan, a ferocious defensive performance, and timely moments of offensive brilliance, the club found a way to take down the Super Bowl contenders.

Making the Bengals’ third win of the season even more satisfying is the fact that the team was forced to do so with their third-string quarterback, Ryan Finley.

After three weeks of generating next to nothing offensively with the primary backup, Brandon Allen, it didn’t seem likely that they would be able to put up enough points against an intimidating Pittsburg defense to come out victorious. However, Lou Anarumo’s unit forced three turnovers, putting the offense in a position to put points on the board.

The importance of this victory for Taylor cannot be overstated. It’s the franchise’s first win over the Steelers since 2015, the last season they made the playoffs. They were able to pull it off without their star franchise cornerstone and numerous other contributors sidelined due to injury. You have to think that’s enough to cool the talks of his dismissal once the season is up.

Bengals’ draft standing not impacted

WhoDey nation can truly indulge in this win, as their draft status won’t be impacted. The club hangs onto the third overall selection, keeping them in a great spot to add premiere talent.

That bodes well for the long-term outlook of Joe Burrow’s protection. There remains plenty of feasible scenarios where top offensive tackle prospect Penei Sewell falls into their laps.

However, the draft remains far away. This week’s win finally reaches the Queen City after five years in the making. The orange and black faithful should enjoy it.

Taylor and co. will look to keep their momentum rolling as they gear up to face the Houston Texans in a week 16 showdown.