In a thrilling Thursday night NFL matchup, Ja’Marr Chase delivered a performance that etched his name into the league’s record books. The Cincinnati Bengals‘ star wide receiver was targeted an astounding 23 times in their 33–31 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, tying for the third-most targets in a single game in NFL history.
Chase’s 23 targets were a testament to his dominance on the field. He finished the game with 16 receptions for 161 yards and a touchdown, setting a new Bengals franchise record for catches in a game. His ability to consistently get open and make plays was a key factor in the Bengals’ dramatic win. Per NFL reporter Greg Auman, “Ja’Marr Chase’s 23 targets in Thursday’s win matches the third-most in NFL history. Only games with more: Chris Chambers had 26 for the Dolphins in a 2005 win over the Bills, and Brandon Marshall had 28 for the Broncos in a 2009 win over the Colts. This year’s high had been Drake London (18).”
Quarterback Joe Flacco, in his home debut for Cincinnati and in his 2nd game for the franchise, relied heavily on Chase throughout the game. Flacco completed 31 of 47 passes for 342 yards and three touchdowns, with a significant portion of those yards coming from his connection with Chase. The duo’s chemistry was evident, as they connected on crucial plays that kept the Bengals in contention, crushing all the doubts around them.
The game itself was a back-and-forth battle. Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw four touchdown passes, all to tight ends, but was intercepted twice. His go-ahead 68-yard touchdown to Pat Freiermuth with 2:21 left gave the Steelers a temporary lead. However, the Bengals responded with a final drive that culminated in Evan McPherson’s fourth field goal, a 36-yarder with seven seconds left, sealing the win.
Chase’s historic performance not only highlights his individual talent but also underscores the Bengals’ offensive potential moving forward. With the team improving to 3–4 on the season, their playoff aspirations remain alive, and much of that will depend on continued standout performances from their star receiver.
Ja’Marr Chase Puts 31 NFL Teams on Notice
Ja’Marr Chase’s post-game comments following the win served as a stark warning to the league, signaling that his team’s offense has officially clicked into its elite form. He described a game-time mindset of pure, demanding focus: “You either want the ball, or you get out.”
Chase was adamant that this performance was not accidental but the direct result of a recent strategic adjustment within the offense. “We felt we figured it out last week,” he stated. “Today demonstrated how prolific this unit can truly be.” And added, “I knew I had it, but I didn’t think I had it all the way because when I fell, it got stuck to my hip. But in the NFL… every camera angle is every camera angle. They got everything.” His own play validated his confidence, as he dismantled the Pittsburgh secondary with the prowess of an All-Pro.
Reflecting on a key touchdown, he noted the comprehensive nature of NFL replay with a wry smile. Ultimately, Chase framed the victory as the fulfillment of a core philosophy, justifying why opponents prioritize defending against their receiving corps and affirming that such dominance is precisely what they “breathe” as a unit.
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