NFL Week 16: Cincinnati Bengals vs Pittsburgh Steelers Odds, and Picks (Dec 23)

• The Bengals beat the Vikings 24-27 in O/T in week 15.
• The Steelers lost 13-30 to the Colts last time out.
• These teams last met in week 12, with the Steelers winning 16-10.

The 8-6 Cincinnati Bengals take on the 7-7 Pittsburgh Steelers in this week 16 AFC North divisional matchup. As things stand, the Bengals are headed to the post-season and the Steelers are missing out but that could all change depending on how results fall this week.

How To Watch

• NBC

Game Preview

The Bengals overcame the Vikings 24-27 in overtime last weekend, but WR Ja’marr Chase exited the game late on with a shoulder injury. The 23-year-old missed practice on Tuesday and is expected to miss at least one week, although management are stating he is “day-to-day”. Tee Higgins will be the main beneficiary of Chase’s absence in terms of targets. Rookie Rb Chase Brown is also questionable after logging a limited practice session with a chest injury, but should be fine to suit up on Saturday. Since losing to Pittsburgh in week 12, the Bengals have gone undefeated and a win here would be a huge boost to their playoff hopes.

The Steelers’ loss to the Colts in week 15 has seen the coaching staff ring the changes. Mitch Trubisky has been demoted to third on the depth chart and, assuming Kenny Pickett fails to pass his fitness tests, Mason Rudolph will be handed the start at quarterback. RB Najee Harris did not practice on Tuesday due to a knee injury and TE Pat Freiermuth was limited also, their status’ will need monitoring as the week progresses.

Prediction

Since the week 12 matchup between these two, both sides have polar opposite records. The Bengals have won all three of their games whilst the Steelers have lost all three. I see Cincinnati gaining revenge for their week 12 loss to Pittsburgh here, with or without Ja’marr Chase.

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