NFL Week 1 Grades: Bengals Get 'F' for Shocking Loss to Patriots, Steelers Earn High Mark for Beating Falcons

Bengals Get 'F' for Shocking Loss to Patriots

The Cincinnati Bengals got off to a terrible start to their 2023 season, losing 14-10 to the New England Patriots in Week 1. The Bengals were favored by 6.5 points, but they never looked like the better team. The Patriots' defense was able to shut down the Bengals' offense, and the Bengals' own defense was unable to get any pressure on Patriots' quarterback Mac Jones.

The Bengals' offense was particularly disappointing. Quarterback Joe Burrow was sacked five times and threw two interceptions. The Bengals' running game was also ineffective, as they were held to just 3.6 yards per carry. The Bengals' defense was not much better. They allowed the Patriots to convert 10 of 17 third downs, and they also gave up a 46-yard touchdown pass to Patriots' wide receiver DeVante Parker.

The Bengals' loss to the Patriots was a major disappointment. They were expected to be one of the contenders in the AFC, but they looked anything but that in Week 1. The Bengals will need to make some major improvements if they want to turn things around and make a run at the Super Bowl.

Steelers Earn High Mark for Beating Falcons

The Pittsburgh Steelers got off to a great start to their 2023 season, beating the Atlanta Falcons 24-12 in Week 1. The Steelers were not favored by many to win the game, but they played a very strong game on both sides of the ball.

The Steelers' offense was led by quarterback Mitch Trubisky, who threw for 276 yards and two touchdowns. The Steelers' running game was also effective, as they rushed for 128 yards. The Steelers' defense was able to put pressure on Falcons' quarterback Marcus Mariota, and they also forced two turnovers.

The Steelers' win over the Falcons was a very encouraging sign. They showed that they can be a competitive team, even with Trubisky at quarterback. The Steelers will need to continue to play well if they want to make a run at the playoffs.