Steelers Take Command Of AFC North: National Reaction To Big Victory

PITTSBURGH, PA — Coupled with the Philadelphia Eagles defeating the Baltimore Ravens, the Steelers' 44-38 win over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday gave them a one-and-a-half game lead in the AFC North. The victory pushed the Steelers record to 9-3 and virtually eliminated the division rival Bengals from playoff contention.

Here's what sports writers across the country are saying about the game:

• John Breech, CBS Sports: "The Steelers are starting to look like a legitimate Super Bowl contender and it's all because of Russell Wilson. On a day where Pittsburgh's defense struggled against Cincinnati'shigh-powered offense, the Steelers were able to win a shootout thanks to Wilson, who overcame an early pick six to throw for 414 yards and three touchdowns. If Wilson continues to look this sharp, there's no reason the Steelers can't play deep into the postseason."

• Eric Edholm, NFL.com: "Pittsburgh’s defense did just enough defensively, forcing three turnovers, including a fourth-quarter scoop-and-score by Payton Wilson. But it took Russell Wilson leading two late time-consuming drives and Justin Fields converting a late third down to close out the shootout."

• Brooke Pryor, ESPN: "After weeks of a boom-or-bust offense quarterbacked by Russell Wilson, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith opted for a safer, more efficient scheme predicated on establishing the run and a quick passing game. And it worked. But will it stick? Next week's rematch with the Browns -- who held the Steelers to 19 points in Week 12 -- will be a crucial measuring stick."

• Gilberto Manzano, Sports Illustrated: "Yes, the Steelers are still in a battle with the Ravens for the AFC North, but what they displayed offensively on Sunday again proved why Mike Tomlin’s team is capable of making a long postseason run."