The Pittsburgh Steelers faced off against the Cincinnati Bengals in a high-stakes matchup during NFL Week 7. The game took place at Paycor Stadium and was broadcasted on Amazon Prime Video. Notably, Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. avoided a critical flag for defensive pass interference (DPI) in the fourth quarter, despite a clear hold on Bengals receiver Tee Higgins.
Porter’s Controversial No-call
During the climactic moments of the game, Porter Jr. pulled Higgins to the ground on a crucial third down throw from quarterback Joe Flacco. Many fans expressed their discontent as officials opted not to call a penalty. Terry McAulay, a rules analyst for Amazon, remarked on the incident, suggesting it seemed like a minor case of hand-fighting rather than a sufficient foul.
Joey Porter Jr.’s Season So Far
- Joey Porter Jr. has made six tackles and defended two passes this season.
- He is in his third year with the Steelers after being drafted in the second round in 2023.
- In 2024, he sustained a knee injury against the Baltimore Ravens.
A Rich Family Legacy
Porter Jr. hails from a family with deep ties to the NFL. His father, Joey Porter Sr., a former Steelers linebackers coach, has made headlines not only for his coaching career but also for his fiery presence on the field. He prominently featured in the “Hard Knocks: In Season with the AFC North,” where he expressed his disdain for fan sentiment in Cincinnati, Baltimore, and Cleveland.
Historical Context and Rivalry
The rivalry between the Bengals and Steelers has a storied past. In 2016, the NFL implemented the “Joey Porter rule,” a response to his controversial on-field conduct during a game. This rule was among several adjustments made by the league due to this intense rivalry.
As the Steelers continue their season, Porter’s performance will be closely observed, particularly after the DPI incident that ignited debate among fans and analysts alike.
