The Cincinnati Bengals visit the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on Saturday night, January 4, 2025. Kickoff is set for 8:00 PM ET. Both teams enter this game with significant implications: the Bengals need a win and help to reach the playoffs, while the Steelers aim to secure the AFC North title and end a three-game losing streak.
The Steelers (10-6) have already clinched a playoff spot but need a win and a Baltimore Ravens loss to capture the division crown. The Bengals (8-8), riding a four-game win streak, must win and hope for losses by both Denver and Miami to keep their postseason hopes alive.
Bengals Preview – Fighting for the Playoffs
The Bengals come into Week 18 with momentum, having won four straight games. Quarterback Joe Burrow leads the league with 4,641 passing yards and 42 touchdowns, making him a critical factor in this must-win matchup. Burrow has thrown at least three touchdown passes in each of his last eight games, including three against Pittsburgh in a 44-38 loss on December 1.
Ja’Marr Chase is on the brink of history, leading the NFL in receptions (117), receiving yards (1,612), and receiving touchdowns (16). His connection with Burrow has been instrumental in the Bengals’ recent success. Running back Chase Brown (990 rushing yards) and receiver Tee Higgins (69 receptions, 858 yards, 10 touchdowns) are listed as questionable, which could impact Cincinnati’s offensive rhythm.
On defense, the Bengals will miss defensive end Sam Hubbard (knee), which weakens their pass rush. Cincinnati’s defense allows 327.5 yards per game, ranking just outside the top 10, but they will need a strong performance to slow down Pittsburgh’s offense.
Steelers Preview – Looking to Rebound
The Steelers have struggled recently, losing three straight games and being outscored 90-40 in that span. Quarterback Russell Wilson had his best game of the season in Pittsburgh’s Week 13 win over Cincinnati, throwing for 414 yards and three touchdowns. He will need another strong performance to help Pittsburgh secure the AFC North.
The Steelers’ defense, led by T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, ranks seventh in the NFL in scoring defense, allowing 20.5 points per game. Their ability to pressure Burrow and contain Chase will be pivotal. Pittsburgh has struggled against high-powered offenses, which puts added pressure on their defensive unit.
Najee Harris leads the ground game with 1,046 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. The Steelers will need balance on offense to keep Cincinnati’s defense on its heels. Despite their recent struggles, Pittsburgh has been tough at home, going 5-2 at Acrisure Stadium this season.
Betting Prediction
The Bengals are slight 2-point road favorites, with the total set at 48 points. Cincinnati’s high-powered offense and Burrow’s elite form make them a tough matchup for a Pittsburgh defense that has struggled against top-tier quarterbacks. However, the Steelers’ home-field advantage and desperation to avoid a four-game losing streak should keep this game close.
Expect a competitive game, but Cincinnati’s superior offensive firepower should give them the edge. Look for Burrow and Chase to deliver in a high-stakes matchup, with the Bengals winning and covering the spread, while the total trends over.
Pick: Cincinnati -2, Over 48
