Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Preview
19 November 2022
We've got an AFC North matchup slated for this weekend as the Cincinnati Bengals face the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Bengals, with a record of 5-4, come into this game as five-point favorites.
However, before you run to the sportsbook to take them, you have to keep the injuries in mind. Their best wide receiver will be sidelined, leaving them without a reliable target.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are 3-6 with a 2-2 record at home. They've had a lot of struggles this season, losing three of their last five games. The good news for them is in Week 10; they earned a win over the New Orleans Saints.
They can use that win as a bit of momentum when they host the Bengals. Let's take a look at each team and make our pick for tonight's game.
Cincinnati Bengals: Chase being out will be a big problem
Although the Bengals have a top-tier offense, they're missing their best wide receiver this weekend. Ja'Marr Chase has been ruled out of this game, leaving QB Joe Burrow without his favorite target.
As a team, the Bengals average 25.3 points per game and 286.7 passing yards per game. With Chase being out, their numbers in yards and points scored will be affected.
The last game for the Cincinnati Bengals was against the Carolina Panthers. The Bengals easily dismantled the Panthers' offense, winning the game 42-21.
Prior to that win, they lost 32-13 to the Cleveland Browns. They lost so badly because the Browns exposed the Bengals' poor rush defense. If they aren't careful, the Steelers will do the same thing.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Steelers need to focus on the run game
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a chance to earn an impressive win this weekend. After beating the New Orleans Saints 20-10, they can earn another strong win here.
The way to do it might be a bit out of their element, but it would help their team win. Before the Steelers even think about passing the ball, they need to establish the run.
On average, the Pittsburgh Steelers put up 108.4 rushing yards per game. The Cincinnati Bengals, however, allow 118.8 rushing yards each game. The reason the Bengals lost to the Browns was because of poor run defense.
Getting Najee Harris going early and then hitting WR George Pickens down the field is a great idea. It'll at least help them keep the game close.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Pick
Before making your pick, there are a few things to consider in regard to this game. For starters, it will be outside in Pittsburgh, where temperatures are expected to be 29 degrees. In our opinion, neither of these teams will focus on throwing the ball.
The other bit you have to keep in mind is that Ja'Marr Chase is out for the Bengals. With him sidelined, the Steelers will likely blitz more on defense.
This will put pressure on Joe Burrow and could result in sacks or turnovers. Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is also back in the lineup for the Steelers. It's a close call, but we'll go with Pittsburgh at +5.
DunkelIndex Free Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers +5, Under
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