The Bengals playoff hopes are still alive, albeit barely, while the Steelers have clinched a playoff spot and can still win the AFC North, but the result of the Browns/Ravens game could determine if Pittsburgh even cares by the time this one kicks off.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals have been red hot of late winning four in a row to get to 8-8 after an incredible win against the Denver Broncos in Week 17. Now the Bengals need a win and help from others to get into the playoffs after a horrendous start. Cincinnati is sixth in scoring averaging 28.3 PPG and over the last four weeks, they’re putting up nearly 30 PPG. Joe Burrow would be a runaway MVP had it not been for the poor start. He could reach 5,000 yards (4,641, league leading) this season and has thrown an NFL high, 42 touchdowns to just 8 interceptions. He has the weapons and scoring hasn’t been a problem. But the defense is. The Bengals have allowed the 4th most points and have to find a way to stop the Steelers. The good news for Cincy is Pittsburgh hasn’t scored more than 17 points in the last three, which were all losses.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers have found the worst time of the season to hit a skid as they’ve lost 3 in a row but all three losses came against teams considered to be Super Bowl contenders (Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs). Pittsburgh has a significantly better defense and special teams than the Bengals but the offense has struggled. Additionally, The Steelers are 10-6 and a win means they finish fifth in the AFC and will take on Houston, but a loss could mean a trip to Baltimore, assuming the Ravens beat the Browns. Much depends on Mike Tomlin’s mindset. Does he want to rest any of his players or go all out to secure the fifth seed?
Best Bet Prediction: OVER 48.5
It’s tough to take a side in this as both teams have something to play for but that could change depending on the result of the earlier game. Regardless, the Bengals will come out flying, and will look to put up points early. If all the starters on both sides play, we should see fireworks. If we had to take a side, we’d lean Bengals -2.5 as the stakes are much higher for them than the Steelers.
Game Betting Odds
Bengals -3
Steelers +3
Total: 48.5
Moneyline: Cincinnati -155, Pittsburgh +130
Recent Betting Trends
Bengals are 10-6 ATS this season
Steelers are 10-6 ATS this season
Cincinnati has hit the OVER 11 of 16 games
Pittsburgh is 8-8 for totals this season
Steelers are 4-1 SU in last five meetings vs Cincy
