Game Details
Cincinnati Bengals (8-8 SU, 10-6 ATS) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6 SU, 10-6 ATS)
Week 18 NFL
Date/Time: January 4, 2025, 8:00 PM ET
Where: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, PA
TV: NBC
Betting Odds
- Point Spread: Bengals -2.5 (-110) | Steelers +2.5 (-110)
- Moneyline: Bengals -140 | Steelers +115
- Over/Under Total: 47.5 (Over -120, Under -110)
Game Overview
This AFC North rivalry features two teams with contrasting stakes. The Bengals, fighting for their playoff lives, enter as slight road favorites. The Steelers, who have already secured a playoff spot, aim to rebound from a three-game losing streak and build momentum heading into the postseason.
The Steelers dominated their earlier matchup, winning 44-38 in a shootout that showcased their defensive prowess with four sacks despite key absences. Now, with linebacker Alex Highsmith returning, Pittsburgh's pass rush will look to exploit a Bengals offensive line dealing with injuries to both starting tackles.
Key Matchups
Steelers Pass Rush vs. Bengals Offensive Line
Cincinnati's offensive line has struggled, particularly with LT Orlando Brown Jr. playing through a leg injury and RT Amarius Mims questionable. This opens the door for Pittsburgh's pass rush, led by T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, to apply pressure on Joe Burrow. Burrow has been efficient but will face a defense ranking 9th in passer rating allowed (85.2).
Steelers Offense vs. Bengals Defense
Pittsburgh's offense has been inconsistent, but they've shown an ability to exploit weak defenses. Cincinnati ranks 23rd in passing yards allowed per game (226.9) and has struggled to generate consistent pressure. Steelers QB Kenny Pickett could find success, especially with WR George Pickens and TE Pat Freiermuth working the middle of the field.
Trends to Watch
- Steelers ATS: Pittsburgh is 10-6 ATS this season and 5-2 ATS at home.
- Bengals ATS: Cincinnati is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games but 3-5 ATS on the road.
- Totals: Cincinnati trends heavily Over (11-5 O/U), while Pittsburgh is balanced at 8-8 O/U.
Betting Pick and Rationale
The Steelers, catching points at home, offer excellent value in this spot. Pittsburgh's defense should dominate the line of scrimmage, and their pass rush will likely disrupt a Bengals offense reliant on Joe Burrow's arm. Cincinnati's injuries to key offensive players, including RB Chase Brown and both starting tackles, further tilt the matchup in favor of Pittsburgh.
Expect the Steelers to use this game to bounce back from their losing streak and head into the playoffs with momentum.
Pick: Steelers +3
Projected Score: Steelers 23, Bengals 20
Pittsburgh's defense and a home crowd will fuel a gritty performance, covering the spread and possibly winning outright. Grab the points before the line moves!