Bengals vs. Steelers NFL Week 18 Picks: Cincinnati Will Take Care of Business
- Eduardo Solano
- December 30, 2024
NFL Pick: Bengals -2.5 (-120) at Bovada (visit our Bovada Review)
The Cincinnati Bengals need a win and some luck to make the playoffs when they visit the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday. Let’s analyze the current NFL odds available at the top-rated sportsbooks and go over all you need to know about this game.
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Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Saturday, January 04, 2024 – 08:00 PM ET at Acrisure Stadium
Cincinnati Bengals
Joe Burrow delivered his third touchdown pass to Tee Higgins with just 1:07 remaining in overtime, sealing a dramatic 30-24 victory for the Bengals over the Denver Broncos on Saturday. The win kept Cincinnati’s slim playoff hopes alive.
Following Denver’s second punt in overtime, Burrow connected with Higgins on a 31-yard pass to the Broncos’ 3-yard line. Moments later, Burrow found his go-to receiver again for the game-winning score. Higgins was unstoppable, finishing with 11 receptions for 131 yards and all three of Burrow’s touchdown passes.
The victory marked the Bengals’ first win of the season against a team with a winning record. To secure their first playoff appearance since 2022, Cincinnati now needs a victory in their season finale at Pittsburgh and some help from other teams.
Burrow showcased his elite form, completing 39 of 49 passes for 412 yards and three touchdowns while adding 25 rushing yards and a touchdown on four carries.
Ja’Marr Chase also had a strong outing, hauling in nine catches for 102 yards, while Chase Brown contributed 67 rushing yards on 20 carries. Burrow extended his NFL record with his eighth consecutive game throwing for at least 250 yards and three touchdowns.
The Bengals’ dynamic trio of Burrow, Higgins, and Chase proved too much for the Broncos to handle throughout the game.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers are reeling from a 29-10 home loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on December 24. The Chiefs dominated Pittsburgh from the outset, jumping to an early 13-point lead and cruising to victory. The Steelers, who have now lost three straight, have struggled mightily against top-tier opponents.
In their latest defeat, Russell Wilson completed 23 of 37 passes for 205 yards with no touchdowns and one interception. Najee Harris led the ground attack with 74 yards on 13 carries, while Pat Freiermuth and George Pickens combined for 110 receiving yards.
Pittsburgh has looked outmatched during their current skid, losing each game by at least 14 points, including blowout defeats against Super Bowl contenders Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Kansas City. They’ll need a major turnaround to challenge the surging Bengals in Week 18.
Key Matchups
This game carries significant implications, with the Bengals fighting for a playoff spot and the Steelers seeking redemption after a three-game losing streak.
Joe Burrow vs. Steelers’ Defense
Burrow has been in elite form, throwing for at least 250 yards and three touchdowns in eight consecutive games. His connection with Higgins and Chase has been nearly unstoppable, combining for 233 yards in their latest outing.
However, the Steelers’ defense, despite recent struggles, has the potential to disrupt Burrow’s rhythm if they can generate consistent pressure. Pittsburgh must force Burrow into quick decisions while limiting the damage from his featured receivers.
Bengals’ Rushing Attack vs. Steelers’ Front Seven
Brown showed solid production for Cincinnati with 67 yards on 20 carries against Denver, but the Bengals have relied heavily on their passing game to move the ball.
The Steelers’ run defense, which allowed 74 yards on 13 carries to Harris in their last game, must step up to prevent Cincinnati from achieving balance. If Pittsburgh can bottle up Brown, they’ll have a better chance of keying in on Burrow’s aerial assault.
Russell Wilson vs. Bengals’ Secondary
Wilson had a quiet outing against Kansas City, managing just 205 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception. The Bengals’ secondary, emboldened by their recent performances, will look to keep Wilson under pressure and force him into mistakes.
Wilson’s ability to extend plays and avoid turnovers will be crucial, but his lack of a reliable deep-threat receiver could limit Pittsburgh’s offensive options.
Najee Harris vs. Bengals’ Run Defense
Harris has been a bright spot for Pittsburgh, averaging over five yards per carry against Kansas City. For the Steelers to control the tempo and keep Burrow off the field, Harris must have a productive day. The Bengals’ defensive front must focus on limiting Harris’ effectiveness, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
Special Teams and Turnovers
In a matchup where momentum is key, special teams could play a pivotal role. Pittsburgh’s recent offensive struggles have put additional pressure on their kicking game and coverage units. Conversely, Cincinnati will look to protect the ball and avoid giving the Steelers any easy scoring opportunities.
The Pick
The Bengals’ offense, powered by Burrow’s precision and the explosiveness of Higgins and Chase, should find success against a struggling Steelers defense.
Pittsburgh’s offense has shown flashes of promise behind Harris but lacks the firepower to match Cincinnati’s scoring potential. The Bengals’ ability to capitalize on key moments and their recent hot streak gives them the edge in this divisional clash.
NFL Pick: Bengals -2.5 (-120) at Bovada
*The line and/or odds on picks in this article might have moved since the content was commissioned. For updated line movements, visit BMR’s free betting odds product.