Cincinnati heads into Sunday with a matchup that could reveal a lot about the team’s
future, especially along the offensive line. Two rookie guards are set to face theirtoughest test yet—and the Steelers know it.
Dylan Fairchild—who missed the first game against Pittsburgh due to a knee
injury—and fellow rookie Jalen Rivers will have to contend with Pittsburgh’s relentless
pass rush, led by T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig. That trio is known for
putting constant pressure on quarterbacks, and they could target the Bengals’ young
guards with stunts, fire zones, and non-traditional Tampa pressures.
The big question is how the rookies will respond under fire. Fairchild and Rivers have
both shown promise, but this matchup will test their technique, communication, and
ability to protect the pocket. If they rise to the occasion, it’s a major step forward for
Cincinnati’s line. If not, the Steelers could exploit this matchup and create real problems
for the offense.
Either way, Sunday’s game will be a clear measuring stick for the Bengals’ rookie
guards—and a chance for Pittsburgh to take advantage of a vulnerable spot in the
trenches.