The Pittsburgh Steelers have a significant opportunity to rebound after a disappointing loss to the Cleveland Browns. Facing another AFC North rival, the Cincinnati Bengals, feels like a turning point that could swing the Steelers’ season in a very positive—or very negative—direction. A win not only helps erase the bitter taste of last week’s defeat but also keeps the Steelers ahead of the Baltimore Ravens in the tight AFC North race and in contention for one of the top seeds in the AFC playoffs. However, a loss would only amplify questions about the legitimacy of the 2024 Pittsburgh Steelers.

Cincinnati, despite a 4-7 record, remains a dangerous opponent. Six of their seven losses have been one-score games with three of those losses being by three points or less. Quarterback Joe Burrow is having an MVP-caliber season, ranking third in passing yards with 3,028, tied for first in touchdown passes with 27, and throwing just four interceptions. His top target, Ja’Marr Chase, is also having a career year, leading the league with 1,056 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. Together, they’ve propelled the Bengals to the NFL’s top-ranked passing offense and the sixth-highest-scoring team, averaging 27 points per game.

Now, with Tee Higgins returning to full health, Cincinnati’s passing attack becomes even more formidable. Higgins is a proven playmaker whose size and ability to win contested catches complement Chase’s explosiveness, making the Bengals even tougher to defend through the air. Over the last three games, Cincinnati has averaged 34 points per game, further underscoring their offensive firepower.

While the Bengals excel in the passing game, they are largely one-dimensional offensively. Their rushing attack ranks 27th in the league, putting the burden on Burrow and his receivers to carry the offense. For the Steelers, limiting big plays through the air will be crucial to forcing Cincinnati out of its comfort zone.

Pittsburgh’s path to victory likely lies in their eighth-ranked rushing attack. Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren have led the Steelers to an average of 135.2 rushing yards per game. The Bengals’ run defense, ranked 21st in the league and allowing 129.8 yards per game, presents a prime opportunity for Pittsburgh to dominate on the ground. The Steelers need to capitalize on this mismatch and impose their will in the run game. By establishing the run, Pittsburgh can control the clock and keep Cincinnati’s explosive offense off the field—arguably their best chance to secure a win. Also, a strong ground game can set up play-action opportunities for Russell Wilson to exploit Cincinnati’s 23rd-ranked pass defense. This is one of those games where George Pickens can make fantasy owners extremely happy.

Despite their 8-3 record, the Steelers have struggled with consistency, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Coming off a mini bye week, this game offers a chance for the team to address its inefficiencies and execute a game plan that takes full advantage of Cincinnati’s weaknesses. Head coach Mike Tomlin will need his team to focus, execute, capitalize on opportunities, and play complementary football. I wouldn’t call this a “get right game” since it’s within the division, but this Bengals defense can be taken advantage of.

With a healthy Tee Higgins joining Ja’Marr Chase and Joe Burrow in peak form, the Bengals’ offense presents a significant challenge for the Steelers’ defense. This AFC North showdown promises to be an exciting clash between two teams fighting for respect. For the Steelers, this is more than just a divisional game—it’s a statement opportunity. A win keeps the Steelers in control of the AFC North, but a loss opens the door for the Ravens to seize the division lead. For the Bengals, a win keeps their faint playoff hopes alive, but a loss all but seals their fate. With the their season’s trajectory on the line, the Steelers must rise to the occasion.

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