The Cincinnati Bengals may have lost a 44-38 thriller to the Pittsburgh Steelers, but their offensive firepower continues to make them a goldmine for fantasy football managers. Sunday’s games were filled with high scores and standout performances across the league. This recap breaks down the key players who shined, who struggled, and who you should be targeting on the waiver wire as the fantasy playoffs approach.
Bengals’ Offense a Silver Lining for Fantasy Managers
Despite the loss, Cincinnati’s offense was firing on all cylinders. The team put up an impressive 375 total yards and secured 25 first downs, proving they can score against tough opponents. This offensive consistency is exactly what fantasy managers look for, even when the team’s real-world record suffers.
Joe Burrow had another solid outing, throwing for 309 yards and three touchdowns. His 23.16 fantasy points provided a reliable floor for managers who started him. The real value, however, came from his supporting cast, who turned his precise passing into major fantasy production.
The distribution of the ball was key to their success. Several players had big days, keeping the offense balanced and unpredictable.
- Ja’Marr Chase: The star receiver was a primary target, catching 6 passes for 86 yards and a touchdown, resulting in 17.6 fantasy points.
- Tee Higgins: He also found the end zone, finishing with 5 receptions for 69 yards and 15.4 points.
- Chase Brown: The running back was a dual-threat weapon, accumulating 100 total yards and a score for a strong 17.5-point performance.
It is this kind of balanced attack that makes nearly every Bengals skill player a viable fantasy option each week.
Wilson and the Steelers Steal the Show
While the Bengals’ offense was impressive, Pittsburgh’s was even better. The Steelers dominated the game with 520 total yards and 28 first downs, thanks to an aggressive game plan from Arthur Smith that left the Cincinnati defense scrambling.
Russell Wilson had a season-best performance, putting the team on his back. He threw for a massive 414 yards and three touchdowns, racking up 27.86 fantasy points. His willingness to push the ball downfield was evident, with an average of 10.9 yards per attempt on 38 passes.
Wilson spread the ball around effectively, but a few key players stood out. Pat Freiermuth led the team in receptions, catching 6 passes for 68 yards and a touchdown. George Pickens also made a huge impact with his 3 catches for 74 yards and a score. In the backfield, Najee Harris was a workhorse, handling 22 touches for 129 yards and a touchdown, rewarding managers who trusted him.
Looking Ahead: Bengals’ Favorable Schedule
For those with Bengals players on their rosters, the future looks bright. The team’s remaining schedule is filled with opponents that could lead to more high-scoring affairs, making players like Burrow, Chase, and Higgins must-starts.
The trend for Cincinnati games to go over the point total is a strong indicator of their fantasy potential. Nine of their last twelve games have hit the over, with many contests surpassing 50 total points. This pattern suggests more offensive shootouts are on the horizon.
| Week | Opponent | Location | Fantasy Outlook |
| 15 | Dallas | Away | High-Scoring Potential |
| 16 | Tennessee | Away | Favorable Matchup |
| 17 | Cleveland | Home | High-Stakes Game |
| 18 | Denver | Home | Potential Shootout |
This schedule makes Bengals players extremely valuable assets for the fantasy playoffs.
Fantasy Hotspots and Cold Shoulders Across the League
Beyond the Bengals-Steelers game, other teams provided major fantasy headlines. The Washington Commanders’ offense continues to be a reliable source of points. Jayden Daniels is now the top-scoring player in Yahoo fantasy leagues after another massive game where he scored four total touchdowns in a 42-19 win over Tennessee.
Key Washington players like Terry McLaurin (23.3 points) and Brian Robinson (17.4 points) also delivered for their managers. Even Chris Rodriguez Jr. made a splash with 13 receptions for 94 yards and a touchdown.
On the waiver wire, Tennessee’s Nick Westbrook-Ikhine is a must-add. With eight touchdowns in eight games and a snap share over 90%, he has become a go-to target. Fantasy managers needing a boost for the final weeks should look his way.
However, not all situations are positive. Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is becoming a major concern. His four-interception performance against the Chargers was a disaster for fantasy managers. His struggles are tanking the value of the entire offense, with receiver Quentin Johnston becoming a risky play after managing only 2 yards on 4 targets. The lone bright spot was Ladd McConkey, who posted 117 receiving yards.
Navigating the Final Weeks of the Fantasy Season
As fantasy leagues enter their most critical phase, staying on top of player performances and matchups is crucial. The high-powered offenses in Cincinnati and Washington offer reliable production, while waiver wire gems like Nick Westbrook-Ikhine could be league-winners.
Managers must also be wary of struggling players. Kirk Cousins’ recent slump makes him a risky start, and his poor play could negatively impact other Falcons players. Making smart lineup decisions and waiver claims based on recent trends will be the key to taking home a fantasy championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Joe Burrow a reliable fantasy QB for the playoffs?
Yes, despite the Bengals’ team record, Joe Burrow remains a solid fantasy quarterback. He consistently puts up good yardage and multiple touchdowns, and his upcoming schedule against teams like Dallas and Denver suggests more high-scoring games are likely.
Who is the best waiver wire pickup mentioned?
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine from the Tennessee Titans is the top waiver wire target. He has scored eight touchdowns in his last eight games and is seeing over 90% of the offensive snaps, making him a dependable starting option for teams needing a wide receiver.
Should I be worried about Kirk Cousins?
Yes, fantasy managers should be very concerned about Kirk Cousins. His recent game included zero touchdowns and four interceptions, and his decision-making is under scrutiny. He is a risky start until he shows signs of improvement.
Which team has the best fantasy outlook for the rest of the season?
Based on the context, both the Cincinnati Bengals and the Washington Commanders have excellent fantasy outlooks. The Bengals have a favorable schedule for shootouts, while the Commanders’ offense, led by Jayden Daniels, is consistently putting up huge point totals.
