Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals: Preview, prediction and odds
Preview for Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals
Week 7 of the NFL season opens with a heated AFC North battle as the Cincinnati Bengals host the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium.
The two rivals are heading in opposite directions. The Steelers (4-1) are flying high atop the division after a 23-9 win over the Cleveland Browns last week, while the Bengals (1-5) are still searching for stability following a brutal run of injuries.
Cincinnati’s campaign took a sharp downturn after Joe Burrow’s season-ending injury in Week 2. In his place, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has stepped in, making his Bengals debut in Week 6 against the Green Bay Packers.
Despite the 27-18 loss, Flacco showed composure, throwing for 219 yards and two touchdowns. Star receiver Ja’Marr Chase continued his impressive form, recording 10 catches for 94 yards and a score, but Cincinnati’s rushing attack struggled once again, producing only 55 yards on the ground.
Injuries remain a concern for the Bengals. Trey Hendrickson’s status is uncertain after exiting last week’s game, while Dylan Fairchild, Lucas Patrick, and Matt Lee are all questionable for Thursday night.
On the other side, Pittsburgh look increasingly like a legitimate play-off threat under Mike Tomlin. Aaron Rodgers delivered 235 yards and two touchdowns against Cleveland, while the Steelers’ defense wreaked havoc, registering six sacks and 16 QB hits.
However, there are a few injury worries for the visitors. Miles Killebrew suffered a serious knee injury last week, and Calvin Austin III remains sidelined with a shoulder problem.
Still, with TJ Watt and Joey Porter Jr likely returning, the Steelers should enter the short week in strong shape.
