Historic Showdown: Bengals and Steelers Feature Quarterbacks Over 40

The Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for a thrilling clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium on Thursday, October 16. This matchup is not just another chapter in the storied rivalry between these two AFC North teams; it also marks a rare milestone in NFL history. For only the third time, both starting quarterbacks will be over the age of 40, a testament to their longevity and skill in a league known for its physical demands.

A Rare Milestone in NFL History

According to Sports Illustrated, this game will feature Joe Flacco, who is 40 years and 274 days old, and Aaron Rodgers, who is 41 years and 319 days old. The last time two quarterbacks of this age faced off was in 2020, when Drew Brees and Tom Brady squared off twice during the same season. Brees was 41 years and 298 days old, while Brady was 43 years and 97 days old. In both encounters, Brees and the New Orleans Saints emerged victorious, showcasing the ability of seasoned quarterbacks to still perform at a high level.

The significance of this matchup extends beyond mere statistics. It highlights a shift in the NFL, where age is becoming less of a barrier for elite quarterbacks. The ability to maintain peak performance into their 40s raises questions about training, nutrition, and the evolving nature of the game itself.

The Secret to Longevity

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor attributes the success of Flacco and Rodgers to their leadership qualities and physical prowess. “I think just the intangible part of it, the leadership part… You always talk about quarterbacks having to elevate those around them. Joe and Aaron are two examples of guys that elevate everybody around them,” Taylor remarked. Interestingly, Taylor is only a year younger than Rodgers, which adds a unique dynamic to the coaching-player relationship.

The NFL has seen a growing trend of older quarterbacks defying the odds. In the past, players often retired in their mid-30s, but advancements in sports science and training regimens have allowed athletes to extend their careers. This evolution is not just about physical fitness; it also involves mental acuity and the ability to read defenses, which often improves with experience.

A Look Back: Flacco vs. Rodgers

This upcoming game will be the fourth time Flacco and Rodgers have faced each other. Historically, Rodgers has dominated their previous encounters, winning all three matchups. Their first meeting took place in December 2009, when the Green Bay Packers defeated the Baltimore Ravens 27-13. The second encounter in 2013 was a nail-biter, with the Packers edging out the Ravens 19-17. Their most recent clash occurred in September 2019, where the Packers triumphed again, this time with a score of 27-16.

The rivalry between these two quarterbacks is not just about wins and losses; it also reflects the evolution of the quarterback position in the NFL. Both Flacco and Rodgers have had their share of ups and downs, but their ability to adapt and continue competing at a high level is commendable.

Historical Context: Quarterbacks Over 40

Since 1970, only 17 quarterbacks have started games at the age of 40 or older. This exclusive list includes legends like Tom Brady, Brett Favre, and Warren Moon, among others. The rarity of this phenomenon underscores the physical and mental challenges that come with playing in the NFL at an advanced age.

The fact that Flacco and Rodgers are now part of this elite group speaks volumes about their dedication to the sport. It also raises questions about the future of the quarterback position. Will we see more players extending their careers into their 40s? The answer may lie in how the game continues to evolve.

What to Expect in the Game

As the Bengals and Steelers prepare for this historic matchup, fans can expect a high-stakes game filled with strategic plays and veteran savvy. Both teams are looking to solidify their positions in the competitive AFC North, making this game crucial for playoff aspirations.

The Bengals, led by Flacco, will aim to exploit the Steelers’ defensive weaknesses, while Rodgers will look to leverage his experience to guide Pittsburgh to victory. The game promises to be a showcase of not just talent, but also the wisdom that comes with years of experience on the field.

Game Details

• Kickoff Time: 8:15 PM ET on Thursday, October 16
• Venue: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati
• Broadcast: Fans can livestream the game on Amazon Prime

Conclusion

The upcoming game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pittsburgh Steelers is more than just a regular-season matchup; it is a historic event that highlights the remarkable longevity of quarterbacks in the NFL. With both Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers taking the field, fans will witness a rare convergence of experience and skill. As the league continues to evolve, this game may serve as a benchmark for future generations of quarterbacks, proving that age is just a number in the pursuit of excellence on the football field.