The Cleveland Browns opened the season with Joe Flacco as their starter, but that experiment unraveled quickly.
Some blamed his struggles on difficulty adapting to Kevin Stefanski’s system, while others pointed to the challenges of a 40-year-old quarterback adjusting late in his career.
Since his trade to the Cincinnati Bengals following Joe Burrow’s injury, however, Flacco has looked rejuvenated.
His standout performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers reminded everyone that age matters little when competitiveness runs deep.
In just his second start for the Bengals, he posted one of the best quarterback outings in Week 7.
Former NFL coach Bruce Arians echoed that sentiment on The Pat McAfee Show, saying he didn’t hesitate before handing Flacco the AFC game ball for the week.
“The first one (AFC) for me is a no-brainer, that’s Joe Flacco. What he did in that game on Thursday night, and, again, only been there 10 days, not knowing half the damn plays. And just lighting up what is a great defense in the Steelers, and to have 33 targets to those two guys is amazing,” Arians said.
"My AFC game ball is going to Joe Flacco..
He can still spin it" ~ @BruceArians #PMSLive https://t.co/xk4AVrZy9K pic.twitter.com/oXICvu2j3w
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) October 21, 2025
Flacco completed 31 of 47 passes for 342 yards and three touchdowns as the Bengals edged the Steelers 33-31.
His timing with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins looked far more polished than the short preparation period might suggest.
Chase set a franchise record with 16 receptions for 161 yards and a touchdown, hauling in throws ranging from screens to sideline completions.
Flacco’s rapid distribution eased pressure on an offensive line that was often criticized this season.
His command of the offense highlights the potential growth if extended practice time materializes.
He has already instilled confidence in teammates, coaches, and fans that he can stabilize the offense moving forward.
NEXT: Ja'Marr Chase Made Franchise History Against Steelers