The Cincinnati Bengals face the Pittsburgh Steelers tonight without their starting running back, Chase Brown, who is officially inactive for the must-win finale, as reported by ESPN. Brown, who suffered a high ankle sprain during Week 17's game against the Denver Broncos, was unable to convince his coaches he was fit to play after failing to practice all week.
Head coach Zac Taylor had labeled Brown as questionable. Despite testing his ankle during pregame warmups, which he entered with optimism, Brown's frustrations became apparent as he could not execute the cutting drills necessary for his position. NFL Network's Bridget Condon reported, "Brown tried to do some cutting drills, shook his head no and is now walking off the field." This left the coaching staff no choice but to determine Brown unfit for action.
With Brown sidelined, Khalil Herbert will likely take over as the featured back against the Steelers. Herbert, who was picked up mid-season, has had limited exposure on the field, with just eight carries totaling 45 yards under his belt since joining the Bengals. His performance will be pivotal as Cincinnati looks to secure a spot in the playoffs.
Trayveon Williams, who has mostly played special teams, and Kendall Milton, who was signed off the practice squad earlier this week, are likely to support Herbert on the backfield. Milton has seen the field minimally this season, appearing for only five snaps during one game.
Chase Brown’s absence is notable, particularly after he had solidified his role as the Bengals’ primary running back this season, often logging 80% of the team’s snaps. Just last month, he starred against the Steelers, rushing for 70 yards and scoring, showing he could be effective against tough defenses.
The Bengals’ success, though, largely hinges on the arm of quarterback Joe Burrow. With only one significant injury to contend with, Burrow, supported by elite wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, remains the main offensive threat for Cincinnati. Against the Steelers tonight, they will likely rely heavily on the passing game to offset their rushing deficiencies induced by Brown's absence.
This situation poses intriguing dynamics heading toward the playoffs. A win against the Steelers is necessary for the Bengals to remain competitive. The Steelers, known for their strong defensive front, will present challenges, especially considering Cincinnati's shift from their primary running game to become more pass-heavy.
If Herbert can step up and provide the dynamic running game the Bengals have come to rely on, it could open opportunities for Burrow downfield. The Bengals need to rally as they head toward the final stretch of the season and set their eyes on the postseason, making Brown’s recovery and return all the more important.
Expectations are high for the Bengals as they face one of their rivals, with the stakes heightened. Will they manage without their workhorse running back? Only the game can tell.