Bengals eliminate Lions from playoff contention 26-17

By JOE KAY
AP Sports Writer

CINCINNATI (AP) – Matthew Stafford made a right-hand turn out of the visitors' locker room and headed into the gloomy night with yet another long offseason soon to follow. With everything on the line, the Lions came up short again.

Stafford and the Lions couldn't take advantage of a down-and-out team to stay in playoff contention Sunday. Giovani Bernard ran for 116 yards and a clinching touchdown that sent Cincinnati to a 26-17 victory, a good moment for Marvin Lewis in possibly his final home game as Bengals coach.

Nothing good for the Lions (8-7) , who ended their playoff chances in appropriate form. After rallying for a fourth-quarter lead, they self-destructed and let it all slip away.

"It's not fun when you get eliminated," said Stafford , who was only 19 of 35 for 203 yards with a touchdown and an interception. "It's not fun."

Detroit repeatedly wasted chances to move to the thick of the playoff chase during the season. It still had an opportunity to extend its hopes for one more week after Tion Green's 5-yard touchdown drive put the Lions ahead 17-16 early in the fourth quarter.

Then it all fell apart.

"We laid an egg out there today," Lions receiver Marvin Jones Jr. said .

Penalties for holding and pass interference extended Cincinnati's drive to Randy Bullock's 51-yard field goal. Given one last chance, Detroit self-destructed with a holding penalty, a false start and a short punt.

"We were not sharp in any way, shape or form," coach Jim Caldwell said.

The Bengals (6-9) then finished it off in front of a half-empty stadium. Bernard broke free for a 12-yard touchdown run with 1:54 to go, sending fans to the exits.

The erratic season raised questions about Caldwell's future after four seasons in Detroit without a playoff win. The Bengals haven't won a playoff game since the 1990 season, the sixth-longest stretch of postseason futility in NFL history. The Lions are right behind them in futility.

"Anytime you lose, everything's up for consideration," said Caldwell, adding that he hasn't talked to management about the future.

The focus on Lewis' future in Cincinnati has increased since a 23-20 loss to the Steelers on Monday night essentially snuffed out the Bengals' chances.

There wasn't much reaction from the small crowd when Lewis' name was announced as part of the pregame team introductions. He's finishing his contract and has been cryptic about whether he thinks he'll return for a 16th season.

Lewis didn't show any extra emotion about the game.

"Emotional?" Lewis said. "Why? Do you know something I don't know?"

The win ended Cincinnati's streak of three straight dismal losses, momentarily salving the sting of the Bengals' second straight losing season.

"We have a lot to play for, too - the logo on our jersey and name on our backs," Bernard said. "That was Marvin's message to us every day."

INJURIES

Lions: Detroit's offensive line was in flux again. Center Travis Swanson was out for the second straight game with a concussion, and guard T.J. Lang was inactive with a foot injury. Right tackle Rick Wagner missed his third game with an ankle injury.

Bengals: LB Vontaze Burfict was back after missing two games with a concussion, but hurt his right shoulder shortly before halftime. Running back Joe Mixon - who also missed the last two games with a concussion - left with an injured right ankle in the first quarter, putting the onus on Bernard.

STAFFORD'S STREAK SNAPPED

In his three previous games, Stafford completed 80 percent of his passes overall. The Lions' offense never got into a rhythm against the Bengals. His passer rating of 69.1 was his lowest in six games.

"Sometimes it's not going to be easy," Stafford said. "For some reason or another, we didn't score enough points."

DISAPPOINTING RETURN

Jones was one of the Bengals' top receivers for four seasons. He was hoping to have a big game in his return, but was limited to three catches for 50 yards. He topped 1,000 yards receiving for the season.

"It really doesn't mean anything right now," Jones said.

EMPTY SEATS

The 65,000-seat stadium was half-empty for the kickoff. The Bengals sold 47,732 tickets, though many went unused. It was their smallest announced crowd since 2011.

UP NEXT

The Lions host the eliminated Packers. They're 3-4 at home this season. Detroit won at Green Bay 30-17 on Nov. 6.

The Bengals play at Baltimore, which is in the thick of the playoff chase. The Ravens opened the season with a 20-0 win at Paul Brown Stadium.

Vikings clinch NFC North title with win over Bengals

MINNEAPOLIS -- While his former team and mentor were on the other sideline with their futures looking cloudy, Mike Zimmer had his Minnesota Vikings looking like a Super Bowl contender.

With Zimmer's defense providing a dominating effort, two long-time friends were leading their teams on very divergent paths.

Case Keenum passed for 236 yards and two touchdowns, and Minnesota's defense dominated Andy Dalton and the Cincinnati Bengals in a 34-7 win on Sunday.

Latavius Murray added 76 yards rushing and a touchdown for Minnesota (11-3), which clinched the NFC North with its ninth win in the past 10 games.

"I know being a division champion isn't the final goal, but it's important to go out and win 11 games, win your division, get a chance to get in the playoffs and then go from there," Zimmer said.

Cincinnati was listless in front of a deafening U.S. Bank Stadium after ESPN's Adam Schefter reported before the game that head coach Marvin Lewis plans to step down after the season. Lewis has spent 15 years as the Bengals coach, going 123-112-3 as the all-time winningest coach in team history, but with losses in all seven playoff games.

After the game, Lewis said the report was inaccurate.

"It's nothing that's changed since August," Lewis said. "It's just speculation people keep throwing out there, and it makes ... we're all wasting time talking about it."

Lewis added: "I have not made any decisions about anything, I've told you how many times."

Lewis said he talked to his team about the report before the game and felt the report of his leaving didn't affect the team.

Dalton was 11-of-22 passing for 113 yards and two interceptions, and was replaced by backup AJ McCarron in the fourth quarter.

The Bengals (5-9) were limited to 46 yards rushing in their third straight loss. Giovani Bernard had 14 carries for 30 yards and converted a 2-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.

"It's the most disappointed I've been in the last couple years," said receiver A.J. Green, who finished with two catches on four targets for 30 yards. "It's been a tough season."

Brian Robison had two of the Vikings' three sacks on Sunday, and Eric Kendricks returned a first-quarter interception for a touchdown. Minnesota held Cincinnati to 161 yards and 1 of 13 on third down.

"It does feel good, but we understand this is part of a bigger picture," Robison said. "This is the start. We're not finished."

The Vikings left little doubt in Sunday's outcome. They drove 75 yards in nine plays on the opening drive, which was capped by Murray's 1-yard touchdown run. Minnesota had three plays of at least 20 yards on the drive.

On Cincinnati's second possession, Kendricks had his second career interception return for a touchdown and the first defensive touchdown by the Vikings this season for a 14-0 lead.

The Bengals failed to convert a first down in the first quarter, their third straight game with zero first downs in a single quarter. Minnesota held Cincinnati to 42 net yards in the first half, the fewest for a Vikings opponent since 2010.

"It's a good feeling," Minnesota defensive tackle Linval Joseph said of limited the Bengals in the first half. "The best feeling is a win and win at a high level in all phases of the game."

Keenum was 20-of-23 passing before giving way to Teddy Bridgewater for the team's first drive of the fourth quarter.

It was Bridgewater's first appearance in a game since a devastating knee injury before the first game of last season. A fan favorite, he received a standing ovation from the home crowd. Bridgewater was 0 of 2, with an interception that went off running back Jerick McKinnon's hands.

"It's just a great feeling," Bridgewater said. "You have a group of men in this locker room who uplifted their brother throughout a hard time in his life. To see them so supportive of me, it motivated me. Just a great experience, I'm glad I was able to experience it with this group of men in this locker room and we were able to clinch the division."

NOTES: Minnesota TE Kyle Rudolph was active after being listed as doubtful on Friday's injury report with an ankle injury. Rudolph's status improved the past two days and he finished with two catches for 17 yards and a touchdown. ... Vikings LT Riley Reiff missed his first game of the season with an ankle injury. ... CB Dre Kirkpatrick, RB Joe Mixon and LB Vontaze Burfict all were inactive for Cincinnati due to concussions. ... The Bengals lost S George Iloka (shoulder), LT Cedric Ogbuehi (shoulder) and LB Vincent Rey (jaw) during the game to injuries. ... Minnesota CB Terence Newman had a third-quarter interception of Cincinnati QB Andy Dalton. It was his 42nd career interception, which is second to DeAngelo Hall (43) for most among active players.

Bears beat Bengals to halt five-game skid

CINCINNATI -- In recent weeks, Chicago Bears head coach John Fox has talked about the growth of his young team, but it has fallen on deaf ears as the losses continued to mount.

On Sunday, the Bears finally got a win to help legitimize that improvement.

Mitchell Trubisky passed for 271 yards and a touchdown and Jordan Howard rushed for 147 yards and two scores, lifting Chicago to a 33-7 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium.

Howard became the first Bears running back to run for 1,000 yards in each of his first two seasons.

"Jordan ran pretty violent," said Fox. "He ran angry. When he does that, you see results."

Kendall Wright had 10 catches for 107 yards, helping Chicago (4-9) snap a five-game losing streak. Tarik Cohen ran for 80 yards for the Bears, who rushed for 228 yards.

"Today we came out and executed as a football team, all three phases," Fox said. "Our guys responded well. It's good to see them experience the results of their hard work. That's gratifying as a coach."

Cincinnati (5-8) was minus four defensive starters, including top tacklers Vontaze Burfict and Nick Vigil, but it was a miserable afternoon for the Bengals and quarterback Andy Dalton, who passed for 141 yards with a touchdown and an interception.

Dalton was sacked twice.

"I'm at a loss for words," said Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis.

Giovani Bernard rushed for 62 yards on 11 carries for the Bengals while starting in place of rookie Joe Mixon, who was out with a concussion.

"It's frustrating, because we're a better team than we played out there today," said Bernard. "We're banged up, but guys have to step up."

The Bears' offense has struggled mightily with fewer than 150 total yards the past two weeks, but they moved the ball effectively on their first possession Sunday against the depleted Cincinnati defense.

Chicago drove 51 yards in four plays in one minute and six seconds, going ahead 6-0 when Howard sprinted through a gaping hole for a 21-yard touchdown run.

"That was really big," Trubisky said. "We want to start fast and finish fast. That's how you want to operate, go down and get into the end zone on the first drive."

Former Bengal Mike Nugent's point-after attempt hit the upright.

Bernard's 21-yard run helped set up a 14-yard touchdown pass from Dalton to Brandon LaFell, putting Cincinnati ahead 7-6.

In the second quarter, the Bears had a touchdown called back by an illegal block and then settled for a 34-yard field goal by Nugent to go ahead 9-7.

For Chicago, which has lost six games by eight points or fewer, not cashing in on a red-zone opportunity is not ideal. It happened again just before halftime when the Bears had first-and-goal at the 9-yard line, but settled for a 27-yarder by Nugent to go ahead 12-7.

But Trubisky gained confidence as the game went on.

He scored on a 4-yard run to cap a 76-yard drive in the third quarter, while cornerback Eddie Jackson's second interception of the season helped set up a 1-yard touchdown strike to tight end Adam Shaheen.

"We knew they (Bengals) were banged up on that side of the ball," Trubisky said. "We wanted to take advantage of that, focus on ourselves and execute."

Jackson made another big play when he stripped wide receiver A.J. Green and recovered near the sideline. The play occurred at the Chicago sideline, giving Fox a clear view.

"I didn't have to take the time to wait on anybody (to challenge)," said Fox, who had lost an earlier challenge.

The ruling of a completed catch with Green being out of bounds before ther strip was overturned, and moments later, Howard scored on an 8-yard run to wrap up the scoring.

Sunday's loss was the playoff death knell for Cincinnati, which had overcome an 0-3 start to get back in the race before a devastating loss to Pittsburgh last week.

"It's embarrassing to do this at home," said Bengals defensive end Carlos Dunlap. "This was pretty bad. I didn't expect this."

NOTES: Bears RB Jordan Howard has a league-leading 12 100-yard rushing games since the start of last season. ... The Bears eclipsed 200 yards rushing for the fourth time this season. ... Bengals QB Andy Dalton's league-leading streak of passes without an interception ended at 193. ... Bengals DT Ryan Glasgow made his first start of the season in place of Geno Atkins, who is battling a toe injury. ... Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict and RB Joe Mixon were inactive due to concussions suffered in Monday night's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Brown, Boswell lead Steelers to 23-20 win over Bengals

By JOE KAY
Associated Press

CINCINNATI (AP) — No matter how high the stakes, how big the deficit or how late in the game, Ben Roethlisberger and his tough-to-catch playmakers always find a way to leave the Bengals wondering what just happened.

Chris Boswell kicked a field goal on the final play shortly after Antonio Brown caught a 6-yard touchdown pass — taking a hit to the head while landing in the end zone — and the Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off another improbable comeback against the stunned Bengals, rallying for a 23-20 victory Monday night.

Down 17-0 early, the Steelers (10-2) extended their best start since 2004 in a physical game with a couple frightening injuries. Brown's touchdown tied it at 20 with 3:51 to go — safety George Iloka was penalized for hitting him in the head after the catch. Boswell won it with 38-yard field goal, his second straight winner in the closing seconds.

Both teams know the script.

"It sort of reminded me of the playoff game — what was it, two years ago?" Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward said. "It's sort of the best reality TV show out there — better than the Kardashians."

Two years ago, the Steelers came to Paul Brown Stadium and pulled out an improbable 18-16 playoff win set up by Cincinnati's fumble and personal fouls on Vontaze Burfict and Adam "Pacman" Jones. Boswell won that one with a 35-yard kick with 14 seconds left.

Desperate for a win to salvage their playoff hopes, the Bengals (5-7) still couldn't find a way to beat their Ohio River rival, not even after getting off to the big early lead. They've dropped six straight and nine of 10 against Pittsburgh.

"Very disappointing," said Bengals receiver A.J. Green, who had two touchdown catches in the first half. "We had it."

Nope. They never do, not against the Steelers.

"We've got a no-blink group," coach Mike Tomlin said. "We've been in this situation before, and in this stadium before."

The hard-hitting game was full of personal fouls, penalties and injuries that could have a long-term effect, especially for the AFC North leaders.

Pittsburgh lost leading tackler Ryan Shazier to a back injury in the first quarter. The linebacker was taken off the field on a cart and taken to a hospital for evaluation. Tomlin had no details about his injury or his prognosis after the game. ESPN reported that Tomlin went to the hospital after the game to check on Shazier.

"Ryan is one of the biggest players on this defense," linebacker Vince Williams said. "When we need a big play, he's one of the guys we look to. It's going to be tough."

Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict was carted off in the fourth quarter after JuJu Smith-Schuster leveled him with a high hit, then taunted him by walking over him.

There were four penalties for unnecessary roughness, one for unsportsmanlike conduct, one for roughing the passer and another for taunting. The Bengals self-destructed with 13 penalties for a team-record 173 yards.

The Steelers remain tied with New England for best record in the conference. They host the Patriots on Dec. 17.

Bottled up by Cincinnati's aggressive defense in the first half, Pittsburgh's playmakers made the difference down the stretch, just as they have all season. They rallied to beat the Packers 31-28 last Sunday on Boswell's 53-yard field goal on the final play, which was set up by Brown's incredible sideline catch.

After missing practice last week with an injured toe, Brown ran gingerly in pregame warmups and had another big game, finishing with 101 yards in eight catches.

Le'Veon Bell ran for 76 yards and had another 106 yards on five catches, including a 35-yard touchdown play in which he remarkably kept his balance along the sideline — cornerback William Jackson pulled up, thinking there was no way he could stay inbound.

It's the first time that Bell and Brown each had 100 yards receiving in the same game. Ben Roethlisberger was 24 of 40 for 290 yards with a pair of touchdowns and an interception.

PRIME-TIME OPPOSITES

The Steelers have won 11 straight prime-time games, including four already this season against the Lions (Sunday night), the Titans (Thursday night) and the Packers (last Sunday night). It's been a horrific time slot for the Bengals, who are 11-24 on Monday night, dropping their past four.

PRIME-TIME PLAYERS

Roethlisberger has won his last seven prime-time starts, throwing 26 touchdowns and five interceptions. In those games, Brown has 58 catches for 883 yards with 15 touchdowns.

IN YOUR FACE

Bell and Burfict have a long-running feud on Twitter, and it got in-your-face right away. After Jones picked off a pass to end the Steelers' opening possession, Bell shoved Burfict's facemask and drove him to the ground, drawing a personal foul.

BIG NUMBER

Roethlisberger became the eighth quarterback in NFL history to reach 50,000 yards passing, joining Peyton Manning, Brett Favre, Drew Brees, Tom Brady, Dan Marino, John Elway and Eli Manning.

OTHER INJURIES

Steelers: Brown missed practice last week with a toe injury. He moved slowly during pregame warmups but started and finished with eight catches for 101 yards.

Bengals: Jones injured his groin on his first-quarter interception and didn't return. Running back Joe Mixon suffered a concussion late in the first half.

UP NEXT

Steelers host second-place Baltimore (7-5) next Sunday night in their fourth prime-time game of the season. They won at Baltimore 26-9 on Oct. 1.

Bengals host the Bears (3-9), completing a stretch of three straight home games. Cincinnati is 3-2 at Paul Brown Stadium this season.

Brown, Boswell lead Steelers to 23-20 win over Bengals

By JOE KAY
Associated Press

CINCINNATI (AP) — No matter how high the stakes, how big the deficit or how late in the game, Ben Roethlisberger and his tough-to-catch playmakers always find a way to leave the Bengals wondering what just happened.

Chris Boswell kicked a field goal on the final play shortly after Antonio Brown caught a 6-yard touchdown pass — taking a hit to the head while landing in the end zone — and the Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off another improbable comeback against the stunned Bengals, rallying for a 23-20 victory Monday night.

Down 17-0 early, the Steelers (10-2) extended their best start since 2004 in a physical game with a couple frightening injuries. Brown's touchdown tied it at 20 with 3:51 to go — safety George Iloka was penalized for hitting him in the head after the catch. Boswell won it with 38-yard field goal, his second straight winner in the closing seconds.

Both teams know the script.

"It sort of reminded me of the playoff game — what was it, two years ago?" Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward said. "It's sort of the best reality TV show out there — better than the Kardashians."

Two years ago, the Steelers came to Paul Brown Stadium and pulled out an improbable 18-16 playoff win set up by Cincinnati's fumble and personal fouls on Vontaze Burfict and Adam "Pacman" Jones. Boswell won that one with a 35-yard kick with 14 seconds left.

Desperate for a win to salvage their playoff hopes, the Bengals (5-7) still couldn't find a way to beat their Ohio River rival, not even after getting off to the big early lead. They've dropped six straight and nine of 10 against Pittsburgh.

"Very disappointing," said Bengals receiver A.J. Green, who had two touchdown catches in the first half. "We had it."

Nope. They never do, not against the Steelers.

"We've got a no-blink group," coach Mike Tomlin said. "We've been in this situation before, and in this stadium before."

The hard-hitting game was full of personal fouls, penalties and injuries that could have a long-term effect, especially for the AFC North leaders.

Pittsburgh lost leading tackler Ryan Shazier to a back injury in the first quarter. The linebacker was taken off the field on a cart and taken to a hospital for evaluation. Tomlin had no details about his injury or his prognosis after the game. ESPN reported that Tomlin went to the hospital after the game to check on Shazier.

"Ryan is one of the biggest players on this defense," linebacker Vince Williams said. "When we need a big play, he's one of the guys we look to. It's going to be tough."

Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict was carted off in the fourth quarter after JuJu Smith-Schuster leveled him with a high hit, then taunted him by walking over him.

There were four penalties for unnecessary roughness, one for unsportsmanlike conduct, one for roughing the passer and another for taunting. The Bengals self-destructed with 13 penalties for a team-record 173 yards.

The Steelers remain tied with New England for best record in the conference. They host the Patriots on Dec. 17.

Bottled up by Cincinnati's aggressive defense in the first half, Pittsburgh's playmakers made the difference down the stretch, just as they have all season. They rallied to beat the Packers 31-28 last Sunday on Boswell's 53-yard field goal on the final play, which was set up by Brown's incredible sideline catch.

After missing practice last week with an injured toe, Brown ran gingerly in pregame warmups and had another big game, finishing with 101 yards in eight catches.

Le'Veon Bell ran for 76 yards and had another 106 yards on five catches, including a 35-yard touchdown play in which he remarkably kept his balance along the sideline — cornerback William Jackson pulled up, thinking there was no way he could stay inbound.

It's the first time that Bell and Brown each had 100 yards receiving in the same game. Ben Roethlisberger was 24 of 40 for 290 yards with a pair of touchdowns and an interception.

PRIME-TIME OPPOSITES

The Steelers have won 11 straight prime-time games, including four already this season against the Lions (Sunday night), the Titans (Thursday night) and the Packers (last Sunday night). It's been a horrific time slot for the Bengals, who are 11-24 on Monday night, dropping their past four.

PRIME-TIME PLAYERS

Roethlisberger has won his last seven prime-time starts, throwing 26 touchdowns and five interceptions. In those games, Brown has 58 catches for 883 yards with 15 touchdowns.

IN YOUR FACE

Bell and Burfict have a long-running feud on Twitter, and it got in-your-face right away. After Jones picked off a pass to end the Steelers' opening possession, Bell shoved Burfict's facemask and drove him to the ground, drawing a personal foul.

BIG NUMBER

Roethlisberger became the eighth quarterback in NFL history to reach 50,000 yards passing, joining Peyton Manning, Brett Favre, Drew Brees, Tom Brady, Dan Marino, John Elway and Eli Manning.

OTHER INJURIES

Steelers: Brown missed practice last week with a toe injury. He moved slowly during pregame warmups but started and finished with eight catches for 101 yards.

Bengals: Jones injured his groin on his first-quarter interception and didn't return. Running back Joe Mixon suffered a concussion late in the first half.

UP NEXT

Steelers host second-place Baltimore (7-5) next Sunday night in their fourth prime-time game of the season. They won at Baltimore 26-9 on Oct. 1.

Bengals host the Bears (3-9), completing a stretch of three straight home games. Cincinnati is 3-2 at Paul Brown Stadium this season.

Mixon runs for 114, Bengals beat winless Browns 30-16

By JOE KAY
Associated Press

CINCINNATI (AP) — Joe Mixon got frustrated as the subpar games piled up. At times, the rookie running back who picked up 100 yards so easily at Oklahoma couldn't even get to the line of scrimmage.

Against the Browns, he got his long-awaited breakout game.

Mixon ran for a career-high 114 yards in Cincinnati's best offensive showing since the last time it faced Cleveland, a 30-16 victory that left the Browns winless heading into December for the second year in a row.

Next, the Bengals (5-6) put it all on the line in a Monday night game against the AFC North-leading Steelers. At least they'll have a running game that was by far the worst in the league — and worst in franchise history — until it finally gained some traction Sunday.

"I look forward to going to practice next week with heads held high," said Mixon, whose 11-yard touchdown run put it away. "The locker room's going to be great, and this is a big one ahead of us."

Afterward, Mixon and Browns rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer traded jerseys at midfield. While Mixon finally had his first big moment in the NFL, Kizer is still waiting for something to celebrate.

There was yelling in the Cleveland locker room after the Browns dropped to 0-11 . Last year, they waited until their 15th game to get their only victory, avoiding the second 0-16 mark in NFL history. They're going down to the wire again, and they're starting to running out of chances.

Kizer was 18 of 31 for 268 yards without an interception. He could have had a 29-yard touchdown pass, but Corey Coleman dropped the ball in the end zone — typical of Cleveland's weekly self-destruction.

"Once we get over that hill, we'll win a lot of games," Kizer predicted.

Kizer's 3-yard run on a fourth-down keeper cut the Bengals' lead to 23-16 with 6:57 left. Mixon's touchdown run completed a 75-yard drive that finished off the Browns.

"We have to get to a point where we're handing the ball off and running the ball on folks," coach Marvin Lewis said.

Cincinnati's Randy Bullock and Cleveland's Zane Gonzalez each kicked three field goals. Andy Dalton finished 18 of 28 for 214 yards with a pair of touchdowns.

In Cleveland, they're already wondering whether Hue Jackson will be around for another season — he is 1-26 since leaving Cincinnati after a successful stint as offensive coordinator. Lewis also has uncertainty ahead as he finishes the final year on his contract after failing to make the playoffs last season.

LOPSIDED SERIES

The Bengals have won seven straight against their intrastate rival and 21 of the last 27. The Bengals have scored 23 or more points in each game during the winning streak, including 30 six times.

PREMATURE

Adam "Pacman" Jones returned a punt 55 yards for an apparent touchdown that was negated by an illegal block. When he reached the end zone, Jones — who had a son born a few hours earlier — got on his back as though in labor . A teammate took the ball and held it aloft as though it was a newborn.

PIVOTAL PENALTY

Browns safety Jabrill Peppers got a 15-yard penalty for a high hit on receiver Josh Malone along the sideline, extending the Bengals' clinching touchdown drive in the fourth quarter.

"I'd love to have that play back," Peppers said. "I'll just try to go lower next time. I got there quicker than I thought. It's definitely a learning experience."

LOUD LOCKER ROOM

Reporters sitting in an interview room outside the Browns locker room could hear yelling inside after the game. Jackson said it's not indicative of anything more than a moment's frustration.

"You heard the emotion and passion with this group," Jackson said.

CROSSING THE LINE

Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict drew a personal foul for hitting a defenseless receiver on Cleveland's opening drive. Browns wide receiver Bryce Treggs was flagged for taunting on Cleveland's next drive. There were a couple of skirmishes after plays as well.

INJURIES

Browns: Kizer missed one series in the second quarter while being evaluated for a concussion. Punter Britton Colquitt also was sidelined temporarily while being evaluated. Gonzalez punted once in his place, for only 16 yards.

Bengals: Linebacker Nick Vigil twisted his right ankle late in the first half, returned briefly in the second half and left the game.

UP NEXT

Browns play at the Los Angeles Chargers. They beat the Chargers 20-17 in the second-to-last game for their only win last season.

Bengals lost to the Steelers in Pittsburgh 29-14 on Oct. 22, when Mixon was held to 48 yards rushing.

Dalton's 3 TDs lead Bengals past Broncos 20-17

By ARNIE STAPLETON
Associated Press

DENVER (AP) — Andy Dalton and the Cincinnati Bengals only made things tougher on the Denver Broncos 48 hours after their boss labeled them as soft.

Dalton's three touchdown throws and a defense that contributed two takeaways helped the Bengals beat the Broncos 20-17 Sunday for their first win in Denver since 1975, when franchise founder Paul Brown was their head coach.

"I didn't know that stat," Dalton said. "It feels good anytime you can win. It's tough to win on the road. For us, this is big."

Bengals coach Marvin Lewis conveniently left out the fact that the Bengals had lost 10 in a row at Denver in prepping his team for this game.

"These guys weren't even alive in '75, were they?" Lewis said.

That year, Brown's Bengals prevailed 17-16 at the old Mile High Stadium, which is now a parking lot.

"No, I don't remember that," cracked A.J. Green, who wasn't born until 1988. "I don't keep up with history a lot."

Denver's dive is certainly reaching historic proportions.

Not only did the Broncos see their 10-game home winning streak against Cincinnati (4-6) snapped, but they lost their sixth straight game, their longest skid since 1990.

"This isn't the culture here," lamented quarterback Brock Osweiler, who just two years ago helped as the Broncos won Super Bowl 50. "The standard here is to win championships, get to the playoffs every year and contend for Super Bowls, and right now we're not playing football like that. So, it's very frustrating."

The Broncos (3-7) have been outscored by 100 points during their skid that led general manager John Elway to suggest over the weekend that "we got a little bit soft" after a 3-1 start that followed a perfect preseason.

"I was initially offended, but in some aspects he's right," said Broncos rookie coach Vance Joseph, who also received a vote of confidence from Elway, who suggested it was up to the players, not the coaching staff, to pull Denver out of its doldrums.

Players' reactions to Elway's insult ranged from anger to acceptance.

"None of us are soft," fumed Brandon Marshall.

"He was telling the truth," allowed Von Miller.

Trailing by a field goal, the Broncos got the ball back with 1:52 left on their 20-yard line, and on fourth-and-4 Osweiler's low throw to Emmanuel Sanders was broken up by Dre Kirkpatrick, whose big play in the first half set the tone for Cincinnati's historic win.

Kirkpatrick's interception return nearly covered 102 yards. But he fumbled the ball at the Denver 15-yard line before smothering it at the 1.

"I've got to punch that in," lamented Kirkpatrick.

Dalton had his back, connecting with Tyler Kroft for the score three plays later.

Because his first completion had lost a yard, Dalton had this oddball stat line: zero passing yards but one TD throw.

Dalton only ended up throwing for 154 yards while completing 15 of 25 passes, but he had a 29-yard TD toss to Alex Erickson for a 13-7 halftime lead, and an 18-yarder to Green, which made it 20-10 with just under nine minutes remaining.

Demaryius Thomas' 17-yard touchdown catch pulled the Broncos within 20-17 with five minutes left.

But cornerback Bradley Roby, burned for the last two touchdowns, committed a crucial pass interference call on a third-down incompletion to Green which allowed the Bengals to burn off more time.

"We're still in it," Bengals receiver Brandon LaFell said. "You look around the league, there's a lot of teams 4-6, 5-5. So, we're right in the thick of things."

And the Broncos are still stuck in reverse.

FAST START: Shaq Barrett's blocked punt set the Broncos up at the Bengals 29 in the opening minutes.

Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy, who has stubbornly stuck with three-receiver sets as his base formation during Denver's nosedive, emptied his backfield on third-and-3 from the Cincinnati 4. That's when Osweiler's pass was picked off by Kirkpatrick.

The Broncos reached the Cincinnati 3 on their next drive and again lined up with an empty backfield. Only this time, C.J. Anderson motioned in from the left, took the handoff and sneaked across the goal line for Denver's first rushing touchdown in the first quarter all season.

Brandon McManus' extra point put Denver ahead 7-6. McManus nailed a 61-yarder at the end of the first half, but Marvin Lewis had called a timeout, and his do-over was blocked by KeiVarae Russell.

Anderson had a crucial fumble at midfield early in the fourth quarter that led to Cincinnati's second touchdown.

TASTING A TURNAROUND: The Bengals are hoping this is the start of a season-saving run and they become the third team to reach the playoffs after a 3-6 start.

"Yeah?" Vontaze Burfict said when told the Bengals are only a game back in the wild card race. "Don't count us out yet."

QUARTERBACK QUAGMIRE: Osweiler fell to 0-3 since supplanting Trevor Siemian, who was leap-frogged by Paxton Lynch for the first time Sunday when Lynch was the backup and Siemian inactive.

Asked if it was time to see conclusively if Lynch is a first-round bust or just a late bloomer, Joseph said, "We'll see. We're going to watch the tape and see where we are as an offense. Obviously, he's healthy now. He's a young player with talent."

Osweiler said he's not worried about getting benched.

"I'm never going to look over my shoulder," he said.

INJURIES:

Bengals LB Vincent Rey pulled his left hamstring in the second quarter and didn't return.

UP NEXT:

Bengals: Host the Cleveland Browns next Sunday.

Broncos: Travel to Oakland seeking season sweep of the Raiders, whom they edged 16-10 on Oct. 1 before beginning their slide.

Bengals have issues on third down

CINCINNATI -- There are a myriad of reasons why the Cincinnati Bengals are 3-6 and have lost three of four games to logically drop out of the playoff chase.

But, if you had to point to one aspect of their game that has been a contributing factor, it is a lack of execution on third down.

Sunday's 24-20 loss at the Tennessee Titans was a study in the Bengals' inability to make plays on third down on offense to extend drives and get off the field on third down on defense.

"Third down, again, is the difference in the football game," said Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis. "We don't make enough on offense, convert there, and obviously on defense, we failed to get off the field and allowed them to drive the football."

The Bengals converted only one of 10 third-down plays on Sunday. A 70-yard touchdown pass to A.J. Green that gave them the lead with five minutes left was a first-down pass play. So was the first touchdown of the day, a 37-yard pass to Brandon LaFell.

Needing one stop on third down to, at minimum send the game into overtime, the defense committed crucial penalties or missed tackles allowing the Titans to drive 73 yards in 12 plays for the winning score.

"The only way to get off the field is to take the ball away or win on third down," Lewis said. "Our execution is not of a winning standard."

Tennessee converted seven of its 15 third-down conversions on Sunday, a whopping 47 percent.

For the season, Cincinnati is tied with the Miami Dolphins for the second-worst third-down conversion rate in the NFL -- 31 percent. The only team worse is the Cleveland Browns who convert 30 percent of their third downs.

The Bengals' defense ranks in the lower half of the league, allowing a 41-percent third-down conversion rate.

Three times during Sunday's game, cornerback Josh Shaw was called for defensive holding resulting in a Titans first down. Each of those flags came on third down, after the Bengals had come up with a stop.

"A couple of double moves, we grabbed them," said Bengals defensive coordinator Paul Guenther. "We can't grab them. And it's third-and-10. If you just keep your leverage, there's help inside."

Of course, the third-down struggles on offense are part of larger issues. A patchwork offensive line has been unable to protect quarterback Andy Dalton or open holes for a paltry running game. This results in third-and-long situations, not desirable when you can't protect the quarterback. The rushing attack hasn't helped matters, averaging fewer than three yards per attempt this season.

The Bengals conclude a three-game trip at Denver on Sunday, hoping to find solutions to some of these season-long issues.

"The one thing about this team is that we're not going to give up no matter what our record is," said Green. "We're going to continue to fight. Things don't go your way all the time. That's why you have to stay level-headed and keep working."

--Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict is being provoked by NFL officials, according to a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter who cited one of Burfict's teammates as the source. The unnamed Bengals player said he heard officials cursing at Burfict on multiple occasions.

With 5:12 left in the first half of Sunday's 24-20 loss to the Tennessee Titans, Burfict was ejected from the game by referee Jeff Triplette after Burfict made contact with a game official. Burfict was involved in a pileup just to the left of the end zone after Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota scrambled to the 1-yard line. Burfict flashed the money sign to the crowd as he left the field.

On Monday, Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said he was unaware of any official provoking Burfict during games. "The officials have a job to do," Lewis said. "We don't need to jaw with anyone after a play."

The NFL reportedly will not suspend Burfict for Sunday's ejection, but a fine is likely, adding to an already hefty total of fines during his career. Burfict was suspended for the first three games this season for an illegal hit during the preseason.

"I've been saying it before, he's going to be held to a different set of standards because of his past," said Bengals defensive coordinator Paul Guenther. "So, he's got to understand that. He does us no good when he's sitting in the locker room for half a ballgame."

--Wide receiver John Ross has gotten few chances to showcase his skills in the NFL. He has squandered those few. In a loss to the Houston Texans in Week 2, Ross fumbled after gaining 12 yards on an end-around, his first career touch. On Sunday, Ross pulled up on his route only to see Andy Dalton send a deep ball his way with nobody there.

"It was my fault," Ross said. "It's like you being a kid and you go the whole year being good and you mess up that one time and you don't get anything for Christmas. That's what it felt like. It definitely stings."

Ross has played sparingly since coming back from a knee injury two weeks ago and was a healthy inactive last week. He was targeted only that one time during the 24-20 loss to the Titans on Sunday.

NOTES: WR Tyler Boyd appeared to be a healthy scratch on Sunday as rookie John Ross got the start. Boyd had returned to practice after suffering a knee injury five weeks ago. Boyd was coming off a standout rookie season, but has only six catches for 43 yards and has been active for only three games. ... CB Adam Jones left Sunday's game in the third quarter with a concussion. He suffered the injury while tackling Tennessee QB Marcus Mariota. Jones, who missed time this season with a back ailment, had two tackles on Sunday and a 23-yard punt return. ... RB Jeremy Hill was placed on injured reserve on Saturday and according to head coach Marvin Lewis, has opted for season-ending ankle surgery. Lewis said he was surprised that Hill is opting for surgery since his understanding was that he would wait until after the season to have the procedure.

REPORT CARD VS. TITANS

--PASSING OFFENSE: B-minus - Andy Dalton had an up and down afternoon. He missed some throws and had a strip-fumble. But, the Bengals QB also passed for 265 yards and two touchdowns including a laser on a slant to A.J. Green that resulted in a 70-yard touchdown that put the Bengals ahead in the fourth quarter. Dalton also had a 37-yard TD to Brandon LaFell.

--RUSHING OFFENSE: F - Jeremy Hill was placed on IR Saturday, so rookie Joe Mixon got the start. But, this unit continues to regress. The Bengals rushed for only 53 yards, averaging 3.8 yards per attempt. Mixon ran for 37 yards and touchdown. Cincinnati was trailing for most of the game and had only 14 rush attempts all afternoon.

--PASS DEFENSE: C - The Bengals' pass rush was more disruptive in the second half, finishing the game with four sacks of Titans QB Marcus Mariota. Mariota still managed to pass for 264 yards with a touchdown and interception. The Bengals had three crucial holding penalties against cornerback Josh Shaw, all coming on third down to help the Titans extend drives.

--RUSH DEFENSE: D - Tennessee rushed for 180 yards and averaged five yards per carry. Titans QB Marcus Mariota had a 28-yard designed run and managed to rush for 51 yards, most coming when the pocket broke down. Derrick Henry ran for 52 yards to lead the team, averaging 4.7 yards per carry.

--SPECIAL TEAMS: B-minus - Randy Bullock's missed extra point following the Bengals' first touchdown ultimately meant the Bengals needed a touchdown to win on their final drive rather than a field goal to tie. Adam Jones had a 23-yard punt return, but the special teams play of the day was made by receiver Cody Core who tight-roped the goal line to down a Kevin Huber punt inside the 1.

--COACHING: D - Sunday's game was there for the Bengals to win. But, the reasons they didn't beat the Tennessee Titans were many of the same reasons they lost their other five games. Costly penalties particularly on third down, lack of discipline and composure in key spots, and a running game that largely is non-existent. How many more chances will Vontaze Burfict get? For that matter, has Marvin Lewis run out of chances?

Jaguars allow season-low 148 yards in 23-7 win over Bengals

By MARK LONG
Associated Press

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — As offensively inept as the Cincinnati Bengals were to start the season, they were even worse Sunday at Jacksonville.

The Bengals finished with a season-low 148 yards in a 23-7 loss that showed — again — just how dominant the Jaguars (5-3) can be.

The game will be remembered more for a fight between receiver A.J. Green and cornerback Jalen Ramsey. But Cincinnati's offense was the one that really got whipped.

It was the team's worst output since a 27-0 drubbing at Indianapolis in 2014 in which Cincy managed 135 yards. The Bengals (3-5) might not have reached the end zone in this one had it not been for a 59-yard pass play from Andy Dalton to Tyler Kroft during which two defenders collided while missing the tackle. Rookie Joe Mixon scored two plays later.

Jacksonville dominated from there, controlling the ball for more than 40 minutes in a chippy game that could have been much more lopsided.

"When we're playing like this, what can you really do with us?" Jaguars cornerback Aaron Colvin said. "Where you going to go with the ball? Where are you going to run the ball? We keep trying to tell y'all: There isn't no secondary out there that's better than us. We're trying to show y'all. Eventually everybody will catch on."

Mixon finished with 31 yards rushing on 13 carries. Dalton threw for 136 yards and was sacked twice.

"Obviously we're not executing at the level that we want to," Dalton said. "We need to play better, and it starts with the mentality of knowing that you're going to play better, and telling yourself, and trusting the guy next to you."

Blake Bortles threw for 259 yards and a touchdown in another efficient day. Marqise Lee had his first TD reception of the season. And Jaydon Mickens returned a punt 63 yards for a score that put the game away in the fourth quarter.

Green and Ramsey were the main topic afterward.

The perennial Pro Bowler retaliated against the trash-talking Ramsey in a violent way. After Ramsey pushed Green to the ground at the end of a running play, Green grabbed Ramsey around the neck and slammed him to the ground. Green then delivered numerous punches to Ramsey's helmet — never the smartest idea — and put another MMA-style choke hold on Ramsey. It was the kind of aggressive attack that could lead to league discipline, maybe even a suspension.

Green and Ramsey were ejected.

"I should have walked off in that situation," Green said. "It's never going to happen again. I regret my actions. Whatever my punishments are I accept them because I put myself in that situation. ... I've got to control my emotions better. I've got to handle my stuff better. I can't put myself in a situation like that, hurt my team and not be able to play."

Ramsey was not in the locker room after the game.

The Jaguars preferred to talk about their latest defensive gem, one that followed two 10-sack performances (Houston, Indianapolis) and a five-turnover outing (Pittsburgh).

"When we're all working together like that, like we've been the past couple of weeks, it's a scary sight," linebacker Myles Jack said. "I can feel it on the field. It's fun."

FOURNETTE OUT

Jaguars rookie running back Leonard Fournette was inactive for violating a team rule. Jacksonville made the surprise announcement 90 minutes before kickoff. It's unclear what Fournette did to draw coach Doug Marrone's punishment.

INJURIES

Bengals: Starting right tackle Jake Fisher was taken to a local hospital with an undisclosed illness. ... Nose tackle Pat Sims left in the first quarter with a right calf injury and did not return. ... Running back Jeremy Hill, who started the first seven games, was scratched because of an ankle injury. Hill was not on the injury report all week.

Jaguars: Left tackle Cam Robinson reinjured his left ankle, but returned to the game. ... Defensive end Dante Fowler Jr. injured his right elbow but returned.

JAGS HOMECOMING

The Jaguars welcomed back nearly 60 former players for their annual homecoming game. In conjunction with the reunion, the Jaguars wore teal jersey and black pants for the first time since December 2006.

UP NEXT

Bengals: Wrap up a three-game stretch against the AFC South by playing Tennessee. It's the second of three consecutive road games, a stretch that could determine whether or not Cincinnati is a playoff contender down the stretch.

Jaguars: Host the Los Angeles Chargers, which have won six in a row in the series. Jacksonville's last victory against the Chargers came in 2007, the last time the Jags made the playoffs.

Issues remain on Bengals' O-line

CINCINNATI -- The Cincinnati Bengals' offensive line isn't getting any better. It was a concern going into the season and even a change at offensive coordinator has not helped that unit do a better job of protecting quarterback Andy Dalton or generating a consistent rushing attack.

Even on Sunday against an Indianapolis Colts defense ranked near the bottom of the league and playing without several injured starters -- including linebacker John Simon, cornerbacks Rashaan Melvin and Quincy Wilson, and safety Malik Hooker -- the Bengals' line gave up three sacks and allowed Dalton to be hit six times and hurried eight. One of Dalton's two touchdown passes -- to rookie Josh Malone -- came with a Colts defender in his face after being unblocked up the middle.

"We've got to do better in protecting Andy (Dalton)," wide receiver A.J. Green said. "We can't have him taking shots like that every week."

The Bengals also struggled in the running game, averaging 2.8 yards on 21 attempts. Rookie Joe Mixon was their leading rusher with 18 yards on 11 carries, a 1.6-yard average. The Bengals rushed for 58 yards as a team. Dalton managed to pass for 243 yards and two touchdowns without an interception despite the constant pressure.

"Andy did a really good job of not putting the ball in harm's way," said head coach Marvin Lewis. "He had the two scramble throws that he didn't get to his guy. He usually does that pretty well. He hung in there throughout the game and took care of the football."

Sunday was supposed to be the day the Bengals' offense busted out against a Colts defense that was both struggling and decimated by injury. Instead, it took an interception return for a touchdown by defensive end Carlos Dunlap to seal a 24-23 win with 6:58 left.

"We have to do a better job of communication overall," said Lewis. "We have to be consistent all the time. We've got to do a little better on third down. We need to keep those third downs manageable. It has to be across the board."

When veterans Andrew Whitworth and Kevin Zeitler left via free agency, it was assumed the offensive line would be a concern this season for the Bengals. Andre Smith was signed to provide some veteran stability, but was later supplanted by Trey Hopkins. Cedric Ogbuehi is coming off a rough season and has struggled at times at left tackle again this year.

The Bengals began the season with three first-time starters on the line.

Through seven games, Cincinnati ranks third-worst in the NFL with 78.4 rushing yards per game and 3.2 yards per carry.

"We've got to make sure we stay on the same page throughout," Lewis said, when asked about struggles in the running game. "It's got to be consistent. The upfront guys, the receivers, the backs. Whatever it is. (offensive coordinator) Bill (Lazor) is putting things together a little differently. We're having to make adjustments."

Dalton has passed for more than 1,600 yards and 11 touchdowns with eight interceptions despite being sacked 22 times. He was sacked 42 times last year. On Sunday, Dalton was able to persevere.

"We were able to overcome it," Dalton said. "That's what it comes down to. I just know (on Malone's TD) I got pressure up the middle. We can't let that happen."

--Bengals rookie receiver John Ross was active Sunday after missing four games with a knee injury. But, despite a great deal of anticipation surrounding his return, the ninth overall pick in this year's draft did not have a catch and was targeted just once.

Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said he chose to dress Ross because he needed a receiver when Cody Core couldn't play due to injury, and that Ross was not part of the game plan.

"We have 53 players and 46 players get to suit up," said Lewis. "He's trying to play catch-up."

--Bengals cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick has been playing with a shoulder injury. He briefly left Sunday's game and appeared to be in significant pain, but later returned to the field.

"I've been going through that all season," Kirkpatrick said. "If it ain't broke or it ain't out of place, I'm going to continue to go because I want to go out there and do everything I can for this team. No matter if I have to skip reps to whatever, I wanted to be out there today."

Kirkpatrick had three tackles for loss on Sunday and a QB hurry.

NOTES: CB Adam Jones was active on Sunday after missing one game with a back injury, described as a transverse process fracture. It was the first game he has missed this season. Jones injured his back during the Buffalo game on Oct. 8 and was a limited participant in practice last week. Jones split time at right corner with William Jackson III on Sunday. ... DE Michael Johnson left Sunday's game toward the end of the first half with a back injury and did not return. Johnson, who had one tackle before leaving the game, has had back issues in the past.

REPORT CARD VS. COLTS

--PASSING OFFENSE: B -- The Bengals' pass offense was efficient but uninspiring. Andy Dalton passed for 243 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions despite being sacked three times and hurried often. One of Dalton's best throws was a heave under pressure that rookie Josh Malone adjusted to in the end zone for his first career TD. But the Bengals couldn't find ways to involve A.J. Green, who had only three catches for 27 yards. Running back Joe Mixon had the biggest pass play of the afternoon, a 67-yard screen pass.

--RUSHING OFFENSE: D -- The Bengals' rushing attack remains a work in progress, five games into Bill Lazor's tenure as offensive coordinator. Cincinnati ran for only 58 yards on Sunday and averaged a paltry 2.8 yards per carry. Jeremy Hill continues to get the start ahead of rookie Joe Mixon, who was the leading rusher on Sunday with just 18 yards. The longest run on Sunday was by receiver Alex Erickson, who gained 14 yards on a toss-sweep.

--PASS DEFENSE: B-minus -- The biggest play in Sunday's game came with seven minutes left when defensive end Carlos Dunlap batted, then intercepted a pass from Colts QB Jacoby Brissett and returned it 16 yards for the eventual game-winning TD. Coming into the game, the Bengals expected to keep the pressure on Brissett, and they did sack him four times. Brissett passed for 233 yards, 121 of which were to tight end Jack Doyle, who had career highs in catches and yards.

--RUSH DEFENSE: C -- The Colts were able to keep at least some pressure off QB Jacoby Brissett with a consistent running game that averaged 4.1 yards per attempt. Frank Gore gained 82 of the Colts' 115 rushing yards while averaging better than five yards per carry. Indianapolis had six first downs via the rush while converting 50 percent of its third downs.

--SPECIAL TEAMS: D -- Randy Bullock made one field goal and had a 34-yard attempt blocked in the first quarter, which could have proven disastrous had the Colts managed to get into Adam Vinatieri's range for a game-winner in the closing seconds of the 24-23 Bengals' win. The Bengals' defense also held the Colts to a field goal after Alex Erickson muffed a punt. Erickson had another near fumble on his next return.

--COACHING: C -- The Bengals won a game and avoided disaster on Sunday. A loss to the Andrew Luck-less Colts, who were missing four key defensive players, would have dropped the Bengals to 2-5, crushed any remaining playoff hopes, and served as a gut-punch to fans. The fact that the Bengals had to rally with a pick-six in the closing minutes to win the game 24-23 didn't create much of a positive vibe. The Bengals still can't figure out their running game. Rookie receiver John Ross made his much-anticipated return, but was targeted once.

Steelers shut down Bengals to pull away for 29-14 win

By WILL GRAVES
Associated Press

PITTSBURGH (AP) — JuJu Smith-Schuster hid his eyes, counted to 10 and went looking for Le'Veon Bell.

The Pittsburgh Steelers rookie wide receiver found his team's star running back crouching behind the goalpost, then proceeded to chase Bell all the way to the sideline as part of a hastily planned touchdown celebration.

"That was just us being dramatic," Bell said with a smile.

In a good way for once.

Smith-Schuster never did catch Bell, by the way . Now he knows how the rest of the AFC North feels about the surging Steelers.

Ben Roethlisberger threw for 224 yards and two scores, Bell added 192 total yards and Pittsburgh's defense dominated the Cincinnati Bengals in the second half of a 29-14 victory on Sunday.

A bit of a hot mess after getting upset at home by Jacksonville two weeks ago, the Steelers (5-2) have figured things out quickly. They shut down Kansas City on the road last Sunday and followed it up by suffocating Cincinnati in the second half to move into a tie for the AFC's best record as their once-again promising season nears the midway point.

Pittsburgh held the Bengals (2-4) to 19 yards over the final two quarters, intercepting Andy Dalton twice and sacking him four times.

"The sky's the limit," Steelers linebacker Bud Dupree said. "Not even the sky's the limit. We're not going to put a ceiling on our head. We're going to keep going up."

Cincinnati came in looking to add some street cred to their resurgence after their 0-3 start, but instead spent the second half reverting to the kind of ineffective offense that got Ken Zampese fired two weeks into the season. Dalton finished 17 of 30 for 140 yards and the two picks while playing on a twisted ankle.

Dalton's final pass symbolized a frustrating afternoon. Facing fourth down and trailing by two scores with 5 minutes left, Dalton scrambled to his left and then simply threw the ball away to seal Cincinnati's eighth loss in its last night meetings with Pittsburgh.

"Any time you lose a division game, especially to the Steelers, the way they're playing, every game counts," said Bengals wide receiver A.J. Green after being held to three receptions for 41 yards. "It's tough. It sets us behind even more."

Chris Boswell added a Heinz Field-record five field goals for Pittsburgh, which posted its highest points total and appears to be rounding into form as Halloween nears.

Two weeks after openly questioning whether he still "had it," Roethlisberger put together easily his best half of the season. He hit Antonio Brown for a 7-yard touchdown to cap Pittsburgh's first drive, found a wide-open Smith-Schuster for a 31-yard score in the second quarter and threw a perfectly placed 23-yard deep out to Brown late in the second quarter to spark a drive that ended with a 24-yard Chris Boswell field goal that put the Steelers up 20-14 at the half.

Dalton and Cincinnati appeared ready to keep pace early. He connected with Brandon LaFell and Tyler Kroft with first-half touchdowns, but when the Steelers turned the pressure up, the Bengals crumbled.

Cincinnati managed just one first down in the second half, much of which Dalton spent on the run or throwing into trouble. Joe Haden collected his first interceptionwith Pittsburgh when he made a juggling grab that set up a field goal by Boswell. William Gay added one later in the third quarter on an ugly overthrow by Dalton.

GOOD TIMES

Smith-Schuster's joyous game of hide-and-seek turned out to be Bell's brainchild. He approached Smith-Schuster — who at 20 is the NFL's youngest player — about 10 minutes before kickoff with the idea. Smith-Schuster, who earlier this season paid tribute to the cartoon "Dragon Ball Z" after scoring in Baltimore, jumped at the chance.

"We didn't practice it or nothing," Bell said. "It just kind of happened."

HEISMAN'D

Bell's day included 35 carries for 134 yards and three receptions for 58 yards, including a 42-yard catch-and-run in the second quarter that featured Bell stiff-arming Cincinnati's Dre Kirkpatrick to the ground.

"I've been doing a lot of boxing, so that helped me today," Bell said after the Steelers improved to 12-0 when he has at least 25 carries.

TRICKERATION

The Steelers put it out of reach late thanks in part to a 44-yard fake punt pass from Robert Golden to Darrius Heyward-Bey. The team has practiced it weekly for years and Golden found a streaking Heyward-Bey to set up Boswell's final field goal.

"Horrible form," Roethlisberger said. "I told him it looked like he was casting deep sea fishing. But hey, might have been the best pass of the night."

EXTRACURRICULARS

Oft-suspended Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict let his disdain for the Steelers known early. Burfict declined to shake hands when he came out to midfield during the coin toss. Burfict, who was suspended for the first five games of last season for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Brown during a playoff loss to the Steelers in January, 2016, then appeared to kick Steelers fullback Roosevelt Nix on the second snap of the game as the two were emerging from a pile.

Nix declined to get into specifics about Burfict's behavior, saying simply "that's football."

INJURIES

Steelers tight end Vance McDonald left with a knee injury and did not return. Cincinnati linebacker Kevin Minter exited with a knee injury in the first half and did not return.

UP NEXT

Bengals: Host struggling Indianapolis next Sunday.

Steelers: Visit Detroit next Sunday night. Pittsburgh has won last four meetings with the Lions.

Dalton throws 4 TD passes, Bengals blow out Browns 31-7

By TOM WITHERS
Associated Press

CLEVELAND (AP) — Lost for three weeks, Andy Dalton and the Bengals finally found their footing in a familiar place.

All it took was a trip to the shores of Lake Erie.

Dalton threw three of his four touchdown passes in the first half and Cincinnati's offense found the perfect opponent to work out some early season struggles as the Bengals rolled to a 31-7 win Sunday over the overmatched Browns.

Dalton only missed on one throw in the first half, going 17 of 18 for 215 yards as the Bengals (1-3) built a 21-0 lead, cleared out FirstEnergy Stadium and won their sixth in a row over their in-state rival.

"This was the next one on the schedule and we wanted to do whatever we could to get a win," said Dalton, who completed 16 straight passes in one stretch. "We needed it. There's one."

Cincinnati has won its past four games in Cleveland by a combined 121-20.

Entering as the NFL's No. 30 ranked quarterback, Dalton connected with A.J. Green, Tyler Croft and Giovani Bernard in the first half while dissecting the young Browns (0-4), who were again plagued by mistakes and were down three defensive starters.

Dalton finished 25 of 30 for 286 yards. His second TD to Croft in the third quarter made it 31-0, and sent even some of the most die-hard Browns fans toward the exits.

The performance continued a stunning turnaround for Dalton, who didn't throw a TD pass and had four interceptions in his first two games. In the past two weeks, he has six TDs and no picks.

This was the breakthrough the Bengals were looking for after a sluggish start, which included coach Marvin Lewis firing offensive coordinator Ken Zampese after the offense failed to score a TD in its first two games.

But after a solid performance last week with Bill Lazor calling plays in an overtime loss at Green Bay, the Bengals broke free against the Browns.

Everybody does.

Cleveland fell to 1-19 in two seasons under coach Hue Jackson, who has been handed the league's youngest roster and is trying to break in rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer without many weapons.

The Browns are hurting themselves with unforced errors, but they're also regressing since a 21-18 loss to Pittsburgh in Week 1.

"I am not going to let this team go backward," Jackson said. "We did today. There is no question about that. We have some work to do. I think to a man in there, we will go back to work. We will put our heads down and get better."

Following the game, Jackson embraced his former boss, Bengals coach Marvin Lewis, who was asked what he told his good friend.

"Don't let them quit on you," Lewis said.

The Browns were again without top pick Myles Garrett. The rookie pass rusher returned to practice Thursday and didn't report any problems, but the Browns are being cautious and will delay his regular-season debut at least one more week. They were also missing starting outside linebacker Jamie Collins (concussion) and massive tackle Danny Shelton (calf).

Dalton dominated the rest of Cleveland's defense.

Already up by two TDs, the Bengals got the ball back with 1:40 left in the first half and appeared content to play it safe and maybe get into field-goal position.

But the Browns blitzed and Dalton alertly dumped the ball into the right flat to the speedy Bernard. With a convoy of blockers in front of him, Bernard streaked untouched to the end zone for a 61-yard touchdown.

BURFICT FIT

Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict returned from his three-game suspension, giving Cincinnati's defense some pop — literally. Burfict made his presence known with his typical hits and he was also flagged for roughing Kizer in the fourth quarter, a shot that will likely earn him more league discipline.

ROOKIE ROCKED

Kizer was only sacked once after being dropped 10 times in the first three games, but he absorbed some punishment while going 16 of 34 for 118 yards.

"Those guys are big," he said. "You are going to feel every hit you take. Got out of there with no bumps and bruises."

SHOCKING TURN-AROUND

Since winning in Cincinnati on Nov. 6, 2014 to improve to 6-3, the Browns are 4-38.

ALL ALONE

The Browns remain the only team in the league not to lead at any point through four games. They had an early chance after Emmanuel Ogbah's strip sack of Dalton on Cincinnati's first possession.

But Cleveland didn't gain a yard in three plays and rookie Zane Gonzalez missed a 48-yard field goal.

PACMAN DELIVERS

Adam "Pacman" Jones, who turned 34 on Saturday, helped set up Cincinnati's first touchdown with a 40-yard punt return.

INJURIES

Bengals: H-back Ryan Hewitt injured his knee in the first half and didn't return. C T.J. Johnson also went out with a neck injury.

Browns: WR Jordan Leslie (hamstring), LB Dominique Alexander (knee).

UP NEXT

Bengals: Host Buffalo.

Browns: Host the New York Jets, led by former Cleveland quarterback Josh McCown.

___

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Bengals brace for Flacco, Ravens in season opener

Stats, LLC

(TSX / STATS) -- While the Baltimore Ravens will have several of their key playmakers back in the lineup, the Cincinnati Bengals are short-handed when the AFC North rivals meet in the season opener Sunday at Paul Brown Stadium.

Baltimore quarterback Joe Flacco is expected to start after missing the entire preseason with a back injury. The Ravens also will have receiver Breshad Perriman and running back Danny Woodhead back in the lineup.

Meanwhile, the Bengals are trending in the other direction.

Cincinnati linebacker Vontaze Burfict and cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones are serving suspensions. Promising Bengals rookie receiver John Ross also is out with a knee injury.

Despite those losses, Cincinnati remains the favorite and has not lost to Baltimore at home since 2011.

"It is a tough place to play, and they are a good football team," Flacco said. "They have been a good football team for a lot of years now. You guys have seen it. We have a tough time winning there."

The biggest question facing Baltimore is Flacco, who crammed an entire training camp and four preseason games into one week of practice. He has traditionally struggled in Cincinnati, posting a 2-6 mark with five touchdowns and 12 interceptions over his career.

Much of Flacco's success could hinge on the Ravens' offensive line, which has also been hampered by injuries and the sudden retirement of center John Urschel on the first day of training camp.

However, six-time Pro Bowl right guard Marshal Yanda and left tackle Ronnie Stanley are expected to play. This should give Flacco more time to throw downfield and also help Baltimore's running attack.

The Ravens will unveil some playmakers they added in the offseason, including receiver Jeremy Maclin and Woodhead. Baltimore boosted its defense, ranked No. 1 through parts of the 2016 season, with the signing of safety Tony Jefferson and cornerback Brandon Carr.

"It is their home opener," Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs said. "They obviously have been preparing for this game ever since we played them last year. It is their home opener, and they want to start off good. Both teams want to start off good, but we are just going to have it out on Sunday."

The Bengals also have plenty of weapons.

Quarterback Andy Dalton has made big plays over the Ravens secondary to A.J. Green, who has caught 41 passes for 726 yards and six touchdowns in eight games against Baltimore. Green missed both games against the Ravens last season.

Tight end Tyler Eifert (knee) was limited in practice this week, but could be active for the game. Running back Giovani Bernard is fully healthy, but starter Jeremy Hill has been dealing with an ankle injury.

Cincinnati, however, will need to do a better job protecting Dalton, who was sacked 41 times in 2016. The offensive line took a hit with the departure of left tackle Andrew Whitworth and right guard Kevin Zeitler via free agency. Cedric Ogbuehi, Jake Fisher and Trey Hopkins will try to fill the void, but they have combined for 16 starts in the NFL.

Dalton said protecting the ball will be key against the Ravens' aggressive defense.

"One thing is you can't turn the ball over," Dalton said. "Turnovers usually decide the game. Other than that, you've got to hit big plays on them. That's one thing we've been able to do in some of the games we've won. When we needed to make a play, we made it, and it allowed us to score in the fourth quarter to win."

The teams split their regular-season meetings last season, with the home team winning each time.

"Ironically, we are playing the team we ended with last year," Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. "They're a very strong football team that's put together well. They're familiar, but they have new players as well."

Fitzpatrick scores TD, but Bengals beat Buccaneers 23-12

By JOE KAY
Associated Press

CINCINNATI (AP) — Ryan Fitzpatrick made a good initial impression with Tampa Bay.

The rest was so-so.

Fitzpatrick completed his first series with a 6-yard touchdown run before the Cincinnati Bengals pulled away to a 23-12 victory over the Buccaneers on Friday night.

The 34-year-old quarterback signed a one-year deal for a chance to back up Jameis Winston . Fitzpatrick had mixed results after his TD, going 6 of 13 overall with an interception. He also scrambled twice for 15 yards. Fitzpatrick lost the ball while trying to throw, but recovered his fumble.

"It's nice to get into a game situation just figuring out how they set the tempo and pace," Fitzpatrick said. "It's something I've had to work on."

Ryan Griffin — Tampa Bay's third-string quarterback the past two seasons — left in the fourth quarter after someone landed on his passing shoulder. There was no estimate how long he'll be sidelined.

"It's all a process now," said Griffin, who was 4 of 9 for 57 yards. "I haven't been hurt before, so we'll see how it goes."

Tampa Bay opened the game with a 14-play, 92-yard drive, but had to settle for a field goal after Adam "Pacman" Jones broke up a pair of Winston's passes in the end zone. Jones is suspended by the NFL for the season opener because of his offseason arrest.

Bengals coach Marvin Lewis was on the sideline after missing a practice last week because of a knee problem.

Andy Dalton had his full complement of receivers — A.J. Green and tight end Tyler Eifert have returned from significant injuries last season — and moved the offense smoothly on Cincinnati's opening drive before making a bad decision. Vernon Hargreaves III anticipated Dalton's sideline throw and picked off a pass at the 1-yard line .

Dalton had plenty of time to throw behind Cincinnati's reconfigured line.

"I just wish I could have that last play back," said Dalton, who was 4 of 5 for 38 yards on his only drive.

Green, who missed the last half of last season with a hamstring injury, had a pair of catches for 21 yards.

Both teams have kicker competitions that were in the spotlight in their preseason opener.

Roberto Aguayo made a 20-yard field goal on Tampa Bay's opening possession, but he was wide right on a 47-yard try and hit the right upright on the extra-point attempt. Nick Folk was good from 45 yards on his only chance.

The Bengals' kickers were perfect. Randy Bullock made field goals of 54 and 49 yards and his extra-point try. Jake Elliott, who was drafted in the fifth round, connected from 45 yards and also made an extra point.

"We both had a good night tonight," Elliott said. "We put all of them through, which is what you want."

INJURIES

Buccaneers: CB Brent Grimes (leg) and C Ali Marpet (ankle) sat out. RB Russell Hansbrough left in the fourth quarter to be evaluated for a concussion.

Bengals: RB Giovani Bernard was held out along with first-round pick WR John Ross, who is recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. Bernard has fully practiced in camp while recovering from ACL surgery midway through last season.

ROOKIE WATCH

Buccaneers: TE O.J. Howard, the 19th overall pick, didn't have a catch, with only one pass thrown his way. WR Chris Godwin had one catch for 14 yards.

Bengals: RB Joe Mixon had several nice runs, avoiding tacklers to get extra yards. He carried six times for 31 yards and turned his only reception into an 11-yard gain by slipping through a pair of attempted tackles. He's competing with Jeremy Hill for playing time.

"Once I got that first carry and got the first-game jitters out of the way, I adjusted," Mixon said. "It was just playing football."

SORTING OUT THE RBs

Tampa Bay will miss Doug Martin for the first three games as he serves a suspension for violating the NFL's policy on performance enhancing substances. Martin carried four times for 11 yards. Jacquizz Rodgers, who is expected to be the featured back while he's gone, also carried four times for 11 yards.

QUOTABLE

After his touchdown, Fitzpatrick simply flipped the ball to an official instead of celebrating. Nobody touched him after he took off for the end zone.

"I went left and there was nothing in front of me," he said. "I was so surprised. I had no celebration planned. I didn't know what to do."

UP NEXT

Buccaneers: Play at Jacksonville on Thursday.

Bengals: Host Kansas City next Saturday.

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Bengals coach Lewis back at work

A minor leg injury did not keep Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis away from the team for long.

After missing Tuesday's practice for what reportedly was a cyst on his knee, Lewis returned to the facility later that evening.

"I was able to return to work last night after receiving great medical care," said Lewis in a statement Wednesday. "I especially want to thank all of the doctors, nurses and technicians who treated me. I am glad to be back with the team as we prepare to play the Buccaneers on Friday."

The announced Tuesday that Lewis would briefly be away from the team to deal with an unspecified "minor health issue."

The 58-year-old Lewis is in his 15th season as coach of the Bengals, guiding the club to a 118-103-3 record.

Cincinnati has reached the playoffs seven times under Lewis and had a streak of five consecutive postseason appearances snapped in 2016, when the Bengals finished 6-9-1.