NFL Week 7 Bengals at Steelers: Most Valuable Player

What started as a promising evening for the Cincinnati Bengals ended in familiar heartbreak. The big brother from Three Rivers took it to Cincinnati in a critical divisional matchup.

Here are the nominees for the Bengals’ Most Valuable Player in their 29-14 loss to the Steelers. Cast your vote and sound off on your winner!

Andy Dalton: Yes, the Bengals’ signal-caller had a deplorable second half against the Steelers, but he almost single-handedly kept the game close as both teams headed into their respective locker rooms at halftime. Even though he threw two interceptions, Dalton also had two touchdown passes and was a reason this game was ever competitive.

Brandon LaFell: There wasn’t a whole lot to write home about for the Bengals’ offense, particularly in the second half, but LaFell had some nice moments on Sunday. He grabbed his first touchdown of 2017 and had 28 yards on four catches.

Tyler Kroft: When Tyler Eifert went down with what is now a season-ending back issue, many believed this offense would be greatly handicapped. Yes, they are still missing Eifert’s abilities, but Kroft has stepped up nicely. He had four catches for 23 yards and a critical touchdown catch on a fourth-and-goal.

Joe Mixon: Even though the Bengals sparsely used him in the second half (correlation to the offensive struggles, anyone?), Mixon showed explosiveness. He had a great 25-yard run and had almost seven yards per carry on Sunday. Mixon also added three catches for 20 yards.

Alex Erickson: With Tyler Boyd sidelined with an injury, Erickson has had to step in on offense in addition to his special teams duties. He had a critical 22-yard catch to convert a first down, as well as a 30-yard kickoff return and a 19-yard punt return.

William Jackson: Adam Jones was sidelined on Sunday, forcing Jackson and Darqueze Dennard into more defensive action. Both have had their respective ups and downs so far this year, but Jackson appears to be rounding into a solid NFL corner.

On Sunday, Jackson had two passes defended on plays that should have been completions. His donning of the No. 22, coupled with his athleticism has many feeling like he is looking like the next Johnathan Joseph.