Bengals coach Simmons: 'We just didn't execute' in loss to Steelers

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - The Bengals missed out on a chance to solidify their playoff positioning in a 34-11 loss to the Steelers on Saturday.

Bengals associate head coach and special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons spoke to Local 12 sports anchor Chris Renkel over the phone after the game.

"Obviously everyone is disappointed," said Simmons. "Clearly nothing went right for us."

The Bengals found themselves in a 21-0 hole in the first half. While in the previous few weeks the team had been able to rally for wins, it just couldn't do that in Pittsburgh.

"I think it was just execution," said Simmons. "We just didn't execute and we put ourselves in such a hole... we just didn't execute the way we needed to execute."

If there was a bright spot for Simmons and the Bengals, rookie punter Brad Robbins perfectly placed two of his three punts inside the 20-yard line.

The Bengals now face long odds to make the postseason. With two games to go, they must not only win out but also get some help to have a chance to play on into January.

"We got to win," said Simmons. "We got to win the first one first. The second one doesn't matter right now. We have to win the one in front of us."

The Bengals kick-off on New Year's Eve in Kansas City at 4:25 p.m. That game is on Local 12.