The Cincinnati Bengals failed horribly on Sunday in a must-win scenario, losing 44-38 to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The loss leaves the Bengals at 4-8 and mercifully puts an end to any dim postseason hopes.
Along the way, Lou Anarumo's defense yielded more than 400 passing yards to Russell Wilson and more than 34 points for the sixth time this season – and third straight game.
Naturally, Bengals fans and media weren't too happy with the defense as the season effectively came to an end. Here's a look at some of the most notable reactions immediately after the game.
The Bengals gave up 41 points to a team that hasn't scored 40 points since November 2018.
– Mike (@bengals_sans)
Do you know who I trust to fix this ridiculously poor defense? Same front office and owners who put it together!
— Mark Chalifoux (@markchalifoux)
It's a damn shame to waste career years on Burrow Chase and Trey. Top 5 pick and tee is gone. Doesn't look good
— Scott Kooistra (@CoachKoos)
The good news is that someone could be fired over this issue this year
– Willie Lutz (@willie_lutz)
They actually had Russell Wilson throw for 400 yards 😂
In 2024
You have to laugh not to cry, man.
– Teth Adam (@DCRezz)
If coming off a bye week and letting the Steelers drop 40 points on your field doesn't get someone fired, then you might as well dismantle the entire organization
— Megan Ortwein (@megortwein)
A poorly coached team assembled by an incompetent front office. Oh yes, and cheap owners too.
– Blake Jewell (@BlakeJewellNFL)
The Bengals franchise is a total joke and you can 100% blame the front office. Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase are playing the best of their careers and won't make the playoffs. The Super Bowl window is closed. Tee Higgins is gone. The defense is terrible. Bengals ownership owes every fan an apology.
— Brandon Saho (@BrandonSaho)
The Bengals came off a bye and gave up 44 points to the Steelers as this season was on life support 🫠🫠
— Tony Pike (@tony_pike15)
