Logo

Steelers Star CB Criticizes Officiating After Heartbreaking Loss to Bengals

The Pittsburgh Steelers fell to the Cincinnati Bengals in a narrow 33-31 defeat on Thursday Night Football, and star cornerback Joey Porter Jr. didn’t hold back his frustration after the game. In his postgame comments, Porter Jr. openly criticized the officiating crew, suggesting that the referees’ decisions had a major impact on the outcome.

“We’ve got the guys to do it — they just gotta let us play,” Porter Jr. said after the loss. “I wasn’t a big fan of the calls today with the officiating, but it is what it is. It’s football.”

Porter Jr. pointed out two critical defensive pass interference (DPI) calls against him, both of which directly benefited Cincinnati’s offense. The first came in the opening quarter while defending Ja’Marr Chase, and the second occurred late in the first half against Tee Higgins, extending a Bengals drive that resulted in a field goal to make it 17-10.

Overall, Pittsburgh was flagged seven times for 59 yards, compared to just four penalties for 35 yards on Cincinnati — a discrepancy that left players and fans alike questioning the consistency of officiating.

Despite the defensive struggles, the Steelers’ offense showed resilience. Aaron Rodgers threw for 244 yards and four touchdowns, connecting with Pat Freiermuth for 106 yards and a 68-yard score that briefly gave Pittsburgh a 31-30 lead late in the game. However, Evan McPherson’s 36-yard field goal with seven seconds remaining sealed the Bengals’ victory.

The loss dropped Pittsburgh to 4-2, though the team remains in first place in the AFC North. For Porter Jr., the sting wasn’t just about the score — it was about feeling that the team’s effort was overshadowed by questionable officiating.

“Let us compete,” he said. “That’s all we’re asking for — a fair game.”

Legendary Drew Brees Praises the Performance of the Saints' Rookie RB, the Perfect Replacement for Alvin Kamara
Can you believe it? The 2025 season is turning into a nightmare for the New Orleans Saints' running back corps, with superstar Alvin Kamara suffering a severe injury to his knee and ankle right in Week 12! Kendre Miller is also out for similar reasons, leaving Saints fans in a panic: Who will save the offense? But don't worry, a "hidden gem" rookie from the 6th round of the draft has stepped into the spotlight, turning Kamara's absence into a golden opportunity to shine brilliantly – and he's even received "high-flying" praise from legendary Drew Brees! Things didn't go as planned: Kamara was expected to "revive" under head coach Kellen Moore, while Miller awaited an explosive season. But injuries struck, opening the door for this young guy – a former college star with all-time records in rushing yards and touchdowns at Kansas. Initially, he was predicted to just sit on the bench, even being a "healthy scratch" in the first few weeks of the season. But when Kamara went down, he was thrust into the lead role, and oh boy, his performance is making the entire NFL take notice! It took a few weeks to "warm up," but this rookie has improved day by day, earning trust from Moore. His career-best game? A sweet 84 scrimmage yards and a touchdown against the Buccaneers! His touches skyrocketed: 12 times against the Falcons (7 rushes, 5 receptions), 17 times against the Dolphins (14 rushes, 3 receptions), then exploding with 20 opportunities in the upset win over the Buccaneers (19 rushes, 1 reception). Not only an efficient rusher, he's also a "golden shield" in the passing game – catching 16/18 targets for 100 yards this season, and spectacular blocks that save quarterback Tyler Shough from pressure! And now, the "blockbuster" reveal: That's Devin Neal, the rookie RB who's turning the Saints into a "youth whirlwind"! The Saints' 2025 draft class is truly a "gold mine," with Neal emphasizing that through his impressive performance. With no timeline for Kamara's return, Neal will continue to be used more – which isn't a bad thing at all, as he's making the most of the opportunity that Miller never got! But the peak? Legendary Drew Brees, the icon of the Saints, has lavished praise on Neal during a Netflix broadcast! Brees emotionally shared: "Devin Neal has shown incredible consistency in his rookie season, and he's proving himself to be an important part of the Saints' future – a true talent that reminds me of the golden days!" Praise from "King" Brees not only elevates Neal but also ignites hope for Saints fans: Could this guy be the "perfect replacement" for Kamara? With his role growing larger, Neal is the shining bright spot, turning opposing defenses into a "joke" and pushing the Saints closer to the playoffs! Don't miss out – the Saints are "transforming" thanks to the new generation, and Neal is the "explosive trigger"! Follow now for the next drama in the 2025 NFL!