Ja'Marr Chase Secures Receiving Triple Crown as Bengals Beat Steelers; Hendrickson's 3.5 Sacks Lead NFL

Jan 5, 2025, 03:28 AM

In their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cincinnati Bengals secured a victory, propelled by standout performances from wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase and defensive end Trey Hendrickson. Chase continued his exceptional season, recording his 17th receiving touchdown after a connection with quarterback Joe Burrow in the first quarter. This touchdown tied the Bengals' single-season record for TD catches. Chase finished the game with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns for the season, leading the NFL in all three categories. He is poised to become only the fifth player since 1970 to achieve the receiving triple crown and is the only player in NFL history with 1,700 yards and 17 touchdowns in a single season. Additionally, Chase's 46 career receiving touchdowns over his first four seasons rank behind only Randy Moss (53) and Jerry Rice (49). On the defensive side, Trey Hendrickson dominated with 3.5 sacks against the Steelers, bringing his season total to 17.5 sacks—3.5 more than any other player—and solidifying his position as the NFL's sack leader. His performance surpassed Myles Garrett's 14 sacks, and he is now a strong candidate for Defensive Player of the Year. Quarterback Joe Burrow praised Hendrickson, stating, "After tonight, I don't know who else is gonna win Defensive Player of the Year other than him. He's incredible." Hendrickson's critical sacks in the fourth quarter helped the Bengals fend off a Steelers' comeback attempt. Despite efforts from Steelers' quarterback Russell Wilson, who connected with tight end Pat Freiermuth for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, and from running back Najee Harris, who scored earlier in the game, the Steelers were unable to overcome the Bengals' lead. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow also made history, leading the NFL this season with 4,918 passing yards and 42 passing touchdowns. The Bengals' victory strengthens their position as they approach the postseason.