Chris Carter of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, hosts the Locked on Steelers podcast.

The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Cincinnati Bengals 16-10 Sunday, with Kenny Pickett and Najee Harris showing new hope for the offense. In their first game without Matt Canada at offensive coordinator, the offense gained over 400 yards for the first time since 2020. The structure of the offense under new offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner and play caller Mike Sullivan showed a real future for the offense to improve in the coming weeks. Pickett didn't throw a touchdown, but he had one of the best games he's played this season, while Harris ran hard and the offensive line blocked well to control the ball. Chris Carter explains why the offense's performance is sustainable, can be improved upon, and could very well be the start of the Steelers being a real AFC threat.

Also, the Steelers' defense had another great game. They have now held opponents to 20 points or less for seven straight games, and are a top 10 scoring NFL defense. T.J. Watt continues his Hall of Fame career with 2 more sacks to give him 13.5 on the season, and the defense wins with backups everywhere. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin deserves more respect for what he's done this season.

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Theme music is 'Soul Kick' by Ceddy P, and 'Too Easy' by Nerdboy. Both from their label Renaissance Music. Find more from their label here.

This show is part of the Locked on Podcast Network.

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