By ETT 
As the Bengals gear up for their pivotal Saturday Night showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team announced its list of inactive players, highlighting the severity of the injury crisis plaguing Cincinnati.
The Bengals will be without several key starters on both sides of the ball, including:
- QB Joe Burrow: Knee injury
- WR Tee Higgins: Ankle injury
- RB Samaje Perine: Ankle injury
- DE Trey Hendrickson: Ankle injury
- CB Eli Apple: Hamstring injury
The absence of these key players is a major blow to the Bengals, who are already struggling with a 5-8 record. Burrow’s injury, in particular, is a significant setback, as he is the team’s most valuable player and orchestrator of the offense.
The loss of Higgins and Perine leaves Cincinnati with a depleted running back and receiver corps. This could make it difficult for the Bengals to move the ball consistently against a tough Steelers defense.
Defensively, the Bengals will miss the pass-rushing prowess of Hendrickson and the cover skills of Apple. The Steelers have a talented offense led by quarterback Kenny Pickett, and these absences could put the Bengals at a disadvantage.
Bengals Coach Zac Taylor: “Obviously, we’re disappointed to have so many of our key players out tonight. But we have confidence in the guys who are going to step up. We need to come together as a team and find a way to get the job done.”
Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin: “I know the Bengals are dealing with some injuries, but they’re still a talented team. We need to be prepared for anything they throw at us. We’re excited for the opportunity to play them in a prime-time game.”
The Bengals-Steelers rivalry is one of the most intense in the NFL, known for its physicality and close games. The two teams have faced each other in the playoffs eight times, with the Steelers holding a 5-3 advantage.
This Saturday’s game is a crucial one for both teams. The Bengals need a win to stay in contention for a playoff spot, while the Steelers are looking to solidify their position at the top of the AFC North.
The Bengals’ injury crisis has thrown a huge wrench into their plans for Saturday night’s showdown with the Steelers. The team will need to rely on its depth and find a way to overcome the adversity it faces.
The game is sure to be a fiercely contested battle, with both teams having plenty to play for. The Bengals’ ability to overcome their injury woes and find a way to win will be a testament to their resilience and determination.
