The Pittsburgh Steelers are 29th in total offense in the NFL but 14th in points scored.

Despite the disparate statistics, Aaron Rodgers believes the Steelers' offense is progressing in his first season. He was particularly pleased with the performance on Sunday in a 23-9 victory over the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. However, the Steelers didn't score their two touchdowns until the third quarter.

"I think we're playing pretty smart football," Rodgers said under offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. "I think Art got us into a good rhythm. When we take care of the football and don't turn it over, we're going to have a chance in any game. Then, if we can control the line of scrimmage, we're really going to be playing downhill.

"I thought the key to the last two games has been first and second down. When we're efficient on those drives, we usually score points. When we're not, there's been some three-and-outs."

The Steelers held off the Minnesota Vikings 24-21 in their previous game in Dublin.

Overall, the Steelers have a three-game winning streak and a 2 ½-game lead in the AFC North with a 4-1 record. The Steelers can add to that lead Thursday night when they visit the second-place Bengals (2-4) at Paycor Stadium.

Rodgers completed 21 of 30 passes for 235 yards and two TDs. One of the scores was a 25-yard deep ball to wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, and the other was a 12-yarder to tight end Connor Heyward.

Eight different receivers had catchers. The Steelers rushed for 100 yards, Jaylen Warren coming off a knee injury to have 52 yards on 11 carries.

However, Rodgers was particularly excited about the first play from scrimmage when he connected with tight end Darnell Washington on a 36-yard pass. For the second week in a row, the Steelers often lined Washington and extra tackle Spencer Anderson next to each other in the same formation.

"I like what we've done with Spence. I like obviously what we've done with Darnell," Rodgers said. "Seems like the more playing time he's out there, big things happen."