Cincinnati Bengals: Rookies had an impressive game vs. Steelers

The Cincinnati Bengals needed many players to step up in Sunday’s matchup against the rival Steelers and that’s exactly what they got. Several Bengals like Logan Wilson, Joe Burrow, and Sam Hubbard all had good performances in Sunday’s win. Not only did experienced players perform, but several rookies from Cincinnati’s 2021 draft class also contributed in a big way.

Without a doubt, some of Cincinnati’s rookies were the reason they emerged victorious on Sunday. Whether it be applying pressure on Ben Roethlisberger, making plays in the offensive passing attack, or giving Joe Burrow better protection, the rookies were present in nearly every level of play in Week 3.

Ja’Marr Chase continues to shine, proving he was the right pick

Going into Week 3, the Bengals had to improve their passing offense since it struggled for the majority of the Bears game. While Burrow only threw for 172 passing yards, Cincinnati’s passing attack still looked improved. Overall, the Bengals were able to be more effective through the air by getting the ball out fast, which also helped protect Burrow.

Ja’Marr Chase had another great game in Week 3 with four receptions, 65 receiving yards, and two receiving touchdowns. Chase had one of the plays of the day late in the second quarter on a 34-yard receiving touchdown, causing the Bengals to take a 14-7 lead before the half.

Chase’s explosive reception in the second quarter felt eerily similar to his 50-yard touchdown in the season-opener against the Vikings. Get used to Chase making game-breaking plays, he has been almost unguardable through three games., especially on deep routes. Many questioned if Chase was the right pick at fifth overall and Chase has emphatically proven it was the right pick as he continues to excel.

The fifth overall pick has already had a historic start to his NFL career thanks to his ability to generate explosive plays. Chase is the first player to start his career with a 30-yard receiving touchdown in each of his first three career games. Alongside Chase’s big plays, he is also consistently burned players in man-to-man coverage.

Chase is simply in elite company in a lot of areas. Fifth against man coverage certainly means success, Chase could start seeing doubles teams if this continues. Also, every single game Chase continues to prove he is a special talent as a deep threat receiver, proven by his outstanding 97.3 grade on passes of 20+ yards.

The Bengals are witnessing a star in the making right now. Chase took another step in the right direction with his big game in Pittsburgh.