Time to get back on the Bengal.
Thanks to Thursday’s shock defeat to the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh’s grip on the division is starting to look tenuous.
Perhaps now was a good time to have a mini-bye, with the extra days rest gained from playing Thursday-Sunday.
Another road division game, this time against Cincinnati, means that Pittsburgh have no time to rest on their laurels.
The Steelers need to come back with a bang with the division – and high seed that comes with it – still in the balance.
Chance for the offence to shine
This game will be a great litmus test for the Pittsburgh offense, as the Bengals defence has been atrocious this year, giving up 26.9 points per game which is 28th in the league.
Neither their passing defense or rushing defense have looked credible this year. The path to victory can be taken by either route for the Steelers.
There should be opportunities to make use of Russell Wilsons excellent deep ball. The Bengals on average give up the fifth-highest depth of target per pass attempt at 8.3 yards.
The thing that has hurt Cincinnati the most this year, though, is their inability to get off the field. They have given up the 29th most first downs in the league in 2024.
The Steelers would be wise to try to take advantage of this. It will pay dividends to tire out the defense and play complimentary football.
Last chance saloon for the Bengals
Thursday should act as a wake-up call, and head coach Mike Tomlin should be worried about complacency setting in.
A wounded animal is at its most dangerous, as the saying goes, and it could be said that this game should mean more to the Bengals.
Any hope Cincinnati have of playoff football would disappear with a defeat in this game – which Pittsburgh would absolutely revel in.
Just like last week against Cleveland, it is reasonable to wonder if the coaching staff of Cincinnati will be coaching for their jobs as the season plays out.
Steelers nation will be praying that it is only the bungles they find in the jungle come Sunday. That way they can start to get their season back on track.
