Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7)
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers 12/23/23 – The NFL Week 16 brings an exhilarating match-up as the Cincinnati Bengals, with an 8-6 record, face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers, standing at 7-7. This game not only impacts the divisional standings but also shapes the playoff picture. Set for Saturday this clash at Acrisure Stadium is a highlight on the NFL game day insights calendar, promising a fierce battle between two teams with a rich history and a competitive edge.
The Bengals enter behind a strong passing attack led by Joe Burrow. Burrow has shown precision in the pocket, completing 66.8% of his passes. His chemistry with elite wideout Ja’Marr Chase has ignited Cincinnati’s offense. Chase has amassed 1,156 receiving yards, 7 touchdowns, and 15.7 yards per catch. The Bengals will need Chase and Burrow firing on all cylinders to exploit a vulnerable Steelers’ secondary.
Conversely, the Steelers lean on their young quarterback Kenny Pickett to generate offense. Pickett has demonstrated mobility and poise, but faces a stout Bengals’ pass rush. Najee Harris spearheads Pittsburgh’s ground game, but has only managed 723 rushing yards this season. The Steelers must vastly improve their mediocre 172.5 passing yards and 51.6 rushing yards per contest to keep pace on Saturday.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023 at 4:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Acrisure Stadium |
| TV: | NBC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Joe Burrow QB vs. Kenny Pickett QB
Burrow helms a lethal Cincinnati passing offense that punishes teams vertically and horizontally. His 66.8% completion rate and 91.0 passer rating demonstrate efficiency moving the chains. Burrow has shown adept ability manipulating the pocket and excels throwing on the run. His vision enables quick reads while his compact release allows placing balls into tight windows. Burrow’s tandem with Ja’Marr Chase produces chunk plays as Chase averages 15.7 yards per catch. If Burrow gets comfortable early, his precision in rhythm will carve up Pittsburgh’s injury-riddled secondary all game.
Conversely, Pickett captains a limited Pittsburgh aerial assault devoid of elite perimeter threats. While he flashes arm talent to all levels, Pickett’s below average 81.4 passer rating reveals inconsistency issues. His 6:4 touchdown to interception ratio leaves much to be desired entering Week 16. Pickett must enhance his decision-making not forcing errant throws into coverage. However, his mobility outside the pocket adds a dimension that could challenge Cincinnati. If Pickett plays a disciplined, low-risk brand of football Saturday, he gives Pittsburgh a fighting chance. But Burrow’s advanced passing acumen and superior surrounding cast give him a sizable advantage over his rookie counterpart.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Cincinnati Bengals -140, Total Odds: 38
The betting odds lean slightly towards the Bengals, with a -140 moneyline and a spread of -2.5. This indicates a belief in their slightly superior overall performance and offensive consistency. The total of 38 points suggests expectations of a moderately scoring game, factoring in both teams’ offensive capabilities and recent scoring trends.
Cincinnati Bengals Betting Trends
The Bengals are 7-3 straight up in their last 10 outings indicating strong overall form. They also boast a 4-2 record against the spread in their previous 6 meetings with Pittsburgh. However, Cincinnati is just 4-13 straight up in their last 17 contests on the road against Pittsburgh. This underdog trend may prove pivotal at hostile Acrisure Stadium.
Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Trends
Conversely, betting trends favor Pittsburgh playing at home. They are 14-6 under the total in their last 20 home fixtures implying lower-scoring contests. The Steelers also own a superb 10-4 under record when hosting Cincinnati. If Pittsburgh’s defense maintains this stingy tendency, they should comfortably cover the 2.5 spread at minimum.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers 12/23/23 Betting Picks
Given the analysis and the betting trends, the Bengals appear to be the safer bet, particularly considering their potent offense and recent form. However, the Steelers’ strong defense, especially at home, should not be underestimated. The key will be whether the Bengals’ offense can break through the Steelers’ defensive line.
In best handicapper tips, the Bengals seem to have the edge, but the Steelers could cover the spread, making them a potentially valuable pick for spread bettors. The total points are tricky, given both teams’ contrasting styles, but leaning towards the UNDER could be wise, considering the Steelers’ defensive record at home.
Free Pick and Prediction: Cincinnati Bengals 21, Pittsburgh Steelers 14