3 Steelers' offensive keys to victory vs. Bengals on Thursday Night Football in Week 7

With the Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 7 primetime Thursday Night Football game against the Cincinnati Bengals just days away, the offensive strategy will be vital in ensuring the Steel City brand of football keeps rolling toward a 5-1 start on the regular season.

From leaning on a surging tight end to exploiting Cincinnati’s defensive weaknesses through play action and feeding one of the league’s most dynamic running backs, here are the three offensive keys to victory Pittsburgh needs to follow.

Continue to ride the hot hand with Darnell Washington

As Washington's usage has steadily increased over the past two contests, Pittsburgh's offense has bounced back in a major way — coincidence? Maybe, but if it isn’t broke, why fix it? Washington is by far the best blocking tight end on the roster and has looked unguardable early this season. Facing off against a poor Bengals defense, Washington could be in for a career day on Thursday Night Football — leading Pittsburgh to victory in the process.

Take advantage of Bengals defense via play action

The Bengals, one of the worst teams at defending the pass, are surely entering Week 7 expecting the Aaron Rodgers-led Steelers offense to air the ball out early. Taking advantage of an equally poor rush defense should open up deep shots off play action, allowing DK Metcalf to take the top off Cincinnati’s secondary for some huge gains.

Get Jaylen Warren the football

Giving up an average of over 150 scrimmage yards to running backs, it’s clear Warren should spearhead the Steelers offense this week. Warren, currently second on Pittsburgh’s offense with 337 yards from scrimmage, should have a field day against Cincinnati — allowing the Steelers to rely on a simple yet effective offensive game plan on Thursday night.

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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' offensive keys to victory vs. Bengals in Week 7