Bengals vs. Steelers 12/23/23 – The Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) visit the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7) in an important AFC North battle on Saturday. Both teams are still in the playoff hunt, making this a must-win for each squad. We’ll break down the key matchups and NFL free picks with betting trends and predictions.
Bengals vs. Steelers 12/23/23
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 4:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Acrisure Stadium |
| TV: | NBC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bengals | -2 -105 | o37 -110 | -130 |  |
| Steelers | +2 -115 | u37 -110 | +110 | |
| ||||
We have acquired DT Travis Bell on waivers from Atlanta.
🔗: https://t.co/rulKAtaXTv pic.twitter.com/PZZhYvWtth
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) December 20, 2023
Joe Burrow QB vs. Kenny Pickett QB
Joe Burrow has regained his superb form from last season, showcasing the pinpoint passing accuracy, masterful decision-making, and composure under pressure that helped lead the Bengals all the way to the Super Bowl. He is a field general in every sense, capable of precision touch throws down the sideline as easily as firing lasers into tight windows over the middle. Burrow excels at manipulating the pocket when plays break down, keeping his eyes focused downfield to create explosive gains. He has developed uncanny chemistry with his receiving corps, connecting on big plays even when the timing isn’t quite perfect. More than anything, Burrow’s next-level football IQ allows him to routinely out-scheme opposing defenses.
Meanwhile, Kenny Pickett has flashed promise in his rookie campaign with his athleticism and ability to create outside of structure. He has the arm talent and competitive toughness that cannot be taught. However, he is still experiencing the expected rookie growing pains when it comes to decision making and protecting the football. Pickett has shown he will force throws under pressure and his aggressiveness has backfired at times. He doesn’t yet have the mastery of coverages and blitz packages that veteran signal callers like Burrow do. This inexperience shows through at important moments. For Pickett and the Steelers to have a chance, he’ll need to avoid the drive-killing mistakes that have plagued him so far.
Bengals’ Offensive Prowess: Rushing and Receiving
The Bengals possess an effective offense, led by Joe Mixon’s impressive ground game and Ja’Marr Chase’s receiving capabilities. Mixon has amassed 815 rushing yards and eight touchdowns, giving Cincinnati a potency rushing force. Ja’Marr Chase stands out with 93 receptions totalling 1156 yards as Burrow’s primary target – both players providing tremendous strength to their offensive unit.
Steelers’ Ground and Air Attack
On the Pittsburgh side, their offense is led by Najee Harris’ 723 rushing yards and four touchdowns, providing an efficient ground game. George Pickens stands out with 814 receiving yards; contributing crucial plays as part of Pittsburgh’s winning strategy. Together they form a well-balanced and efficient offensive strategy.
NFL Betting Odds: Cincinnati Bengals -140, Over/Under: 38
The Bengals are favored in this matchup, but the tight spread indicates a closely contested game. The over/under suggests a lower-scoring affair, possibly driven by strong defensive plays or cautious offensive strategies.
Trends
Cincinnati Bengals Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Cincinnati’s last 6 games.
Cincinnati are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games.
Bengals are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games against Pittsburgh.
Cincinnati are 4-13 SU in their last 17 games against Pittsburgh.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cincinnati’s last 5 games on the road.
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Cincinnati’s last 14 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Trends
Pittsburgh are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Pittsburgh’s last 12 games.
Pittsburgh are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of Pittsburgh’s last 20 games at home.
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Pittsburgh’s last 14 games when playing at home against Cincinnati.
Pittsburgh are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games against an opponent in the American Football Conference conference.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Picks
Considering the trends and the performances of key players, this game could be closer than the odds suggest. The Bengals, with their explosive offensive potential, seem to have the edge. However, the Steelers’ resilience and balanced attack could surprise.
For those looking into top betting sites, this game poses an interesting challenge. While the Bengals are the safer pick based on recent performance, the Steelers have the potential to upset, especially at home. The under might be a safe bet, considering both teams’ recent trends and the high stakes of this late-season game.
Score Prediction: Bengals 18, Steelers 14
