Big Ben downs Bengals in play-offs

PITTSBURGH’S ‘Big Ben’ tolled doom for Cincinnati’s first NFL play-off game in 15 years, while the Carolina Panthers advanced on Sunday with a defensive effort unseen in 25 years.

Ben Roethlisberger threw three touchdown passes and the Steelers routed hosts Cincinnati 31-17, while NFL receiving leader Steve Smith scored two touchdowns to lift Carolina past the New York Giants 23-0 to advance in the first-round games.

“Ben made some big plays, some big scrambles and very good decision making,” Steelers coach Bill Cowher said.