Cincinnati Bengals star receiver Ja’Marr Chase sparked debate among NFL fans after ranking the Kansas City Chiefs rivalry above the long-standing feud with the Pittsburgh Steelers. When asked about the Steelers rivalry, Chase admitted it was “up there” but wouldn’t place it first.
Pressed further, he stated, “No, they’re way higher than that” when comparing the Chiefs to the Steelers. This comment quickly drew criticism from fans, who took to social media to express their opinions.
Fans React to Chase’s Comments
One fan wrote, “Hilariously out of touch with reality. My goodness”, while another commented, “Dude I can promise you Patrick Mahomes doesn’t care about you”.
Steelers fans, in particular, took offense to Chase’s remarks, pointing to their team’s all-time series lead and postseason wins over the Bengals. The Steelers lead the series 73-41, including playoff games, a margin built over five decades in the same division.
The Rivalries in Perspective
The Bengals and Chiefs met in the AFC Championship Game in back-to-back seasons, with the Bengals winning in 2021 and the Chiefs responding in 2022. However, the Bengals have missed the playoffs for three straight seasons, making the Chiefs rivalry seem less relevant to some fans.
The Steelers, on the other hand, have recent wins over the Bengals, including a 30-27 victory earlier this season. As the Bengals prepare to face the Steelers on Sunday night, with first place in the AFC North on the line, Chase’s comments have added fuel to an already intense rivalry. The outcome of this game could significantly impact both teams’ playoff aspirations.
Chase’s Perspective on Rivalries
Ja’Marr Chase’s ranking of the Kansas City Chiefs rivalry above the Pittsburgh Steelers stems from recent high-stakes matchups. The Bengals and Chiefs met in consecutive AFC Championship Games, with Cincinnati winning in 2021 and Kansas City in 2022.
Chase had a standout performance as a rookie against the Chiefs, recording 266 receiving yards. The Chiefs went on to appear in three straight Super Bowls from 2022 to 2024, winning two.
On-Field Performance
Chase has been a key player for the Bengals this season, with 647 yards and seven touchdowns on 53 catches. His performance against the Steelers earlier this season, where he finished with nine catches for 98 yards and a touchdown, demonstrates his ability to contribute in big games.
As the Bengals aim to secure a playoff spot, they’ll need Chase and their other star players to maintain their high level of play. The team has won four straight games since their loss to the Steelers, including a 34-17 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Madrid. With a 6-2 record, the Bengals are well-positioned for a playoff push.
