The Pittsburgh Steelers looked to stay hot as they visited Paycor Stadium to take on the Cincinnati Bengals on “Thursday Night Football.”
The Steelers, led by Aaron Rodgers, are riding on a three-game winning streak, including a demolition of the Cleveland Browns, 23-9, in Week 6. Safe to say, they are not lacking in confidence these days.
Rodgers got the team going early against the Bengals after connecting with Jonnu Smith in the first quarter to put them on the board. In the process, he also set a new personal record.
“Aaron Rodgers held onto the ball for 8.6 seconds before finding Jonnu Smith in the end zone for a 10-yard touchdown, Rodgers' longest time to throw on a TD pass in the NGS era (since 2016),” said Next Gen Stats.
Aaron Rodgers held onto the ball for 8.6 seconds before finding Jonnu Smith in the end zone for a 10-yard touchdown, Rodgers' longest time to throw on a TD pass in the NGS era (since 2016).#PITvsCIN | #HereWeGopic.twitter.com/pzCYb3IpFU
— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) October 17, 2025
Throughout his legendary career, Rodgers has been known to have a quick release, as he can easily survey the field and find cracks in the defense. While he's not a strong scrambler, he can escape pressure, reset outside the pocket, and throw with elite accuracy.
It was his 11th touchdown pass this season, on pace to reach the 30-TD mark for the first time since 2021.
The four-time MVP signed a one-year deal worth $13.65 million with Pittsburgh in the offseason, hoping for one last ride before calling it quits. He had a forgettable stint with the New York Jets before joining the Steelers. So far, they're on the right track.
The Bengals, however, have stolen the lead, 14-10, at halftime.
Rodgers completed 13 of 19 passes for 118 yards in the first half. He got intercepted twice.
