In one of the most electric Thursday Night Football performances of the 2025 NFL season, Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase etched his name into franchise history books with a dominant display against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Chase's 16 receptions on a staggering 23 targets for 161 yards and a touchdown powered the Bengals to a hard-fought 33-31 victory, keeping Cincinnati's playoff hopes alive in the competitive AFC North.

The 23 targets directed Chase's way represent not just a personal milestone, but a franchise record for the Bengals organization. The sheer volume demonstrates the critical role Chase plays in offensive coordinator's game plan and quarterback Joe Burrow's confidence in his star receiver. Every time the Bengals needed a crucial conversion or momentum-shifting play, they looked to their explosive playmaker.

Chase's 16 catches also set a new franchise record, surpassing previous marks and highlighting his exceptional hands and route-running ability. Despite Pittsburgh's defensive efforts to contain him, Chase consistently found ways to get open and make plays after the catch. His touchdown came at a critical juncture, helping Cincinnati build separation on the scoreboard against their division rivals.

The narrow two-point margin of victory underscores just how important Chase's contribution was to the outcome. The Bengals needed every one of those 161 yards and all 16 receptions to hold off a resilient Steelers squad that fought until the final whistle. Pittsburgh mounted several scoring drives but ultimately fell just short in another installment of this storied AFC North rivalry.

For Chase, this performance represents another chapter in what is becoming an elite career. Since entering the league, the former LSU standout has consistently demonstrated his ability to take over games and deliver when the stakes are highest. His connection with Burrow continues to be one of the most productive quarterback-receiver combinations in the NFL.

The victory improves Cincinnati's record and keeps them in the thick of the playoff race as Week 7 continues. With Chase performing at this level, the Bengals remain a dangerous opponent for any team in the league. His ability to command double teams and still produce at such a high rate makes defensive coordinators across the NFL lose sleep.

As the season progresses toward its critical second half, performances like Chase's Thursday night showcase remind everyone why he is considered among the premier receivers in professional football. The Bengals will need more heroics from their star if they hope to make a deep postseason run, but if this game is any indication, Chase is more than ready to carry that burden.