Bengals vs. Steelers: 3 Key Stats Going into the Second Half

Well, that went pretty well, now didn't it?

The Steelers jumped out to a 21-0 lead after a shaky start, thanks in large part to a key forced fumble on special teams. Cincy managed to get on the scoreboard with a 10-play, 80-yard drive capped off by an A.J. Green score. But a clutch punt return touchdown from Antonio Brown gave the Steelers a 28-7 lead and gave all the momentum back to Pittsburgh.

Here are four key stats from the first half that provide some teaching points for Pittsburgh to take home a much-needed victory.

1. One Sack

Pittsburgh is allowing Dalton to be way too comfortable in the pocket. I know they have a lot of faith in their secondary right now, but they have to do everything they can to get Dalton on the run, where he’s much less efficient.

2. 4.6 Yards Per Carry 

We know the run game is just not as explosive as it used to be, but it’s gotta be better than this (even if it’s just to set up the play action pass). The more efficient the ground game is, the more that opens up downfield for Ben and company.

3. 15:13 Time of Possession

Time of possession isn’t a stat that Pittsburgh has been dominating this season, but they’ve done a decent job so far today. Expect the Steelers to try and widen this margin in the second half, meaning a lot more touches for Mendenhall and Isaac Redman.

4. A.J. Green: 4 Receptions, 73 Yards, 1 TD, 15 Rushing Yards

Those numbers are simply unacceptable for Pittsburgh’s secondary. Green has managed to get behind the safeties and find the holes in the zone, as evidenced on his 11-yard touchdown. The Steelers have to find a way to shut him down in the second half.