NFL: Bengals vs Pittsburgh Steelers - Odds, Prediction & Picks

The clash between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pittsburgh Steelers is set to unfold on Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 4:30 PM ET in the electrifying Acrisure Stadium, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This pivotal matchup pits the Bengals, with an 8-6 record, against the Steelers, who stand at 7-7. The Bengals enter the game as slight favorites at PA Sportsbooks, boasting a three-game winning streak and aiming to capitalize on their recent success. In contrast, the Steelers, having covered the spread seven times this season, present a formidable challenge with their resilience and ability to perform as underdogs. 

The predicted point total for the game is 38, indicating a potentially intense and closely contested battle between these AFC North rivals. Football enthusiasts can catch all the action live on NBC. As the Bengals seek to solidify their playoff chances, star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase is unfortunately ruled out due to a shoulder injury, impacting Cincinnati's offensive firepower. On the other side, the Steelers are grappling with the absence of key players like quarterback Kenny Pickett and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, adding an element of unpredictability to the matchup. 

This game holds immense significance for both teams, shaping the playoff landscape as the regular season draws to a close. The recent history favors the Bengals, who have secured three wins in their last five encounters against the Steelers. As these two AFC powerhouses clash under the Saturday night lights, the outcome remains uncertain, promising a thrilling spectacle for football enthusiasts and PA bettors alike.

Odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a crucial matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals with a mix of challenges and strengths. With quarterback Kenny Pickett out due to an ankle injury, the team faces uncertainties in the passing game. Meanwhile, defensive key players like Minkah Fitzpatrick and T.J. Watt, though dealing with injuries, continue to be pivotal components. The Steelers will need a cohesive effort to overcome these setbacks and secure a crucial victory.

Pittsburgh Steelers Injury Report:

• Kenny Pickett (QB) - Out (Ankle)
• Minkah Fitzpatrick (S) - Out (Knee)
• Trenton Thompson (DB) - Out (Neck)
• Elijah Riley (S) - Questionable (Ankle)
• Isaac Seumalo (OG) - Unknown (Shoulder)
• Cameron Heyward (DT) - Unknown (Concussion)
• Pat Freiermuth (TE) - Unknown (Knee)
• Broderick Jones (OT) - Unknown (Ankle)

Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up to face the Pittsburgh Steelers with both strengths and challenges. Despite the absence of star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase due to a shoulder injury, the Bengals have shown resilience, winning three straight games. The offensive line, represented by Alex Cappa, faces uncertainties with a knee injury. The Bengals must navigate these challenges to maintain their momentum in this critical matchup.

Cincinnati Bengals Injury Report:

• Ja'Marr Chase (WR) - Out (Shoulder)
• Alex Cappa (OG) - Unknown (Knee)
• Cameron Sample (DE) - Unknown (Knee)
• Joe Bachie (LB) - Unknown (Oblique)
• Jake Browning (QB) - Unknown (Forearm)
• Chase Brown (RB) - Unknown (Sternum)
• Jackson Carman (OG) - Unknown (Illness)

Head-to-Head:  In their last five meetings, the Pittsburgh Steelers have dominated the Cincinnati Bengals, securing four victories.

Two things PA bettors must know before placing a bet on this game

• Steelers' Defensive Dominance: Pittsburgh boasts a formidable defense led by T.J. Watt, ranking first in sacks, making them a force to be reckoned with.
• Bengals' Offensive Struggles: Cincinnati faces challenges with key injuries, especially star receiver Ja'Marr Chase out, impacting their offensive firepower.

In a clash against the Cincinnati Bengals, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a critical matchup with playoff implications. Recent form has been a mixed bag for the Steelers, displaying moments of defensive brilliance led by T.J. Watt and offensive struggles, especially in the absence of key players like quarterback Kenny Pickett. The defense's top-ranking in sacks showcases their ability to disrupt opposing offenses, a crucial factor against the Bengals.

Considering previous meetings, the Steelers have a history of dominance against the Bengals, winning four out of their last five encounters. This psychological advantage could play a pivotal role in boosting the team's confidence.

Analyzing the three traditional bets, starting with the Spread, the Steelers, backed by their defensive prowess, have the potential to cover and limit the Bengals' offensive output. The Moneyline presents an intriguing opportunity, with the Steelers having historically performed well against the Bengals. However, the absence of key offensive contributors like Pickett raises some concerns.

As for the Over/Under, trends suggest a lower-scoring game, given the Steelers' defensive strength and the Bengals' offensive struggles without Ja'Marr Chase. A bet on the Under could be a prudent choice.

For the Steelers to secure a victory, they must capitalize on their defensive strengths, exploiting the Bengals' vulnerabilities. T.J. Watt's ability to disrupt the Bengals' passing game and create turnovers will be pivotal. Offensively, the Steelers need a strategic approach, potentially relying on a combination of rushing plays and short, high-percentage passes.

In conclusion, while recent offensive challenges and key injuries pose obstacles, the Steelers' historical dominance against the Bengals and a formidable defense make them strong contenders. A cautious approach to the Spread and Moneyline, combined with a lean towards the Under in the Over/Under market, could be a prudent strategy for bettors eyeing the Steelers' success in this crucial matchup.

Steelers Moneyline (+131) | DraftKings Sportsbook

With the Steelers facing the Bengals, history favors Pittsburgh with a 4-1 record in their last five matchups. Despite recent offensive struggles, the Steelers boast a formidable defense, led by T.J. Watt. The Moneyline bet on DraftKings, offering +131 odds, presents excellent value considering the Steelers' historical dominance and the Bengals' key injuries, including Ja'Marr Chase. 

This wager combines probability and value, making it an attractive choice for bettors seeking a favorable risk-reward ratio. As the Steelers aim to capitalize on their defensive strengths, this Moneyline bet becomes a strategic and potentially rewarding option for PA bettors.