Bengals vs. Steelers NFL Week 16 – As the NFL season reaches its crucial stages, Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for an intense Week 16 showdown. Both teams currently stand with 8-6 records – the Bengals at 8-6 while 7-7 for Pittsburgh – so this matchup could prove vital in both teams’ playoff hopes. NBC is broadcasting this matchup live so NFL daily picks enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this thrilling encounter; its stakes are high while anticipation levels soar.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Date & Time: Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 4:30 PM ET
Location: Acrisure Stadium
TV: NBC
Bengals vs. Steelers NFL Week 16 Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Bengals | -140 | -2.5 (-116) | 38 over (-110) |
| Steelers | +120 | +2.5 (-104) | 38 under (-110) |
Cincinnati Bengals Analysis
Led by Joe Burrow, the Bengals passing offense ranks 7th in yards per game. Burrow is averaging 230.9 passing yards with 15 TDs and a 91 passer rating. His main target is elite receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who has 1156 receiving yards and 7 TDs while averaging 12.4 yards per reception. The Chase-Burrow duo will look to exploit a Steelers secondary that has struggled recently.
The run game features Joe Mixon, who has 815 rushing yards and 8 scores while averaging 3.9 yards per carry. Mixon has been consistent, eclipsing 50 rushing yards in all but one game this season. He’ll be counted on to help Cincinnati control the time of possession and open up their lethal play-action passing attack. Defensively, the Bengals have struggled, allowing the 6th most points per contest. However, they excel in takeaways, ranking 3rd in interceptions. The unit will need to contain Pittsburgh’s passing duo of Kenny Pickett and George Pickens.
Pittsburgh Steelers Analysis
Kenny Pickett leads the Steelers’ 25th-ranked passing offense with 2070 yards and 6 TDs. While he’s shown promise, Pickett has completed just 62% of his passes and struggled with turnovers. His top weapon is standout rookie George Pickens, who’s averaging 15.7 yards per catch with 814 receiving yards. Pickett relies heavily on the big-play ability of Pickens, targeting him 91 times this year. They’ll face a tough test against the Bengals’ ball-hawking secondary. Najee Harris is Pittsburgh’s lead back but has an underwhelming 4 yards per carry. Harris has battled injuries, which has sapped his usual explosiveness. The Steelers must establish more balance with Harris to take pressure off Pickett versus Cincinnati’s fierce pass rush.
The Steelers have a top 10 scoring defense allowing just 20.1 points per game. They’ll need shutdown performances from pass rusher and cornerback against the Bengals’ explosive offense. In particular, Watt must consistently pressure Burrow and force errant throws for Pittsburgh to have a chance. The Steelers run defense ranks just 20th in yards allowed, so stopping Mixon will also be critical.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Against the Spread
The Bengals have shown a strong trend of going OVER in total points, indicating their high-scoring nature. Their record of 7-3 SU in the last 10 games showcases their winning mentality. However, their track record against the Steelers, especially at Pittsburgh, has been less than favorable, making the spread betting a bit tricky.
On the other side, the Steelers have struggled ATS in their recent outings, and their games tend to go UNDER in total points. Their home game advantage and defensive tactics might play a significant role, particularly in keeping the score low.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Cincinnati Bengals (-140). The Bengals high-powered offense led by Burrow and Chase gives them the edge over the Steelers’ inconsistent unit centered around the rookie Pickett.
Spread: Cincinnati Bengals -2.5 (-116). Cincinnati outmatches Pittsburgh on both sides of the ball. Expect them to cover this small spread, winning by at least a field goal on the road.
Total: Over 38 (-110). These offenses should produce plenty of points. And with both defensive units having vulnerabilities, the over has good value.
Predicted Score: Cincinnati Bengals 24, Pittsburgh Steelers 17
At present, the Bengals appear to be the safest bet to cover the spread. Their offensive prowess and recent form have tilted the odds in their favor; for Canadian online betting or elsewhere, this matchup presents an exciting opportunity to place strategic bets based on current trends and team dynamics.
