Pittsburgh Steelers vs Cincinnati Bengals 11/26/2023 – The NFL’s Week 12 schedule promises a thrilling lineup with all 32 teams in action. While holiday games are in the rearview mirror, the upcoming Sunday showcases enticing matchups, including Steelers vs. Bengals, Chiefs vs. Raiders, and the highly anticipated Bills vs. Eagles showdown. Let’s dive into the Steelers vs. Bengals matchup, where an unexpected twist with backup quarterback Jake Browning adds an extra layer of intrigue. The NFL odds to win are updated below for bettors to place their bets on their favorite teams.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs Cincinnati Bengals 11/26/2023
| When: | Sunday, November 26, 1:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Paycor Stadium |
| TV: | TV |
| Stream: | NFL+ |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steelers | -1.5 -115 | o35.5 -110 | -127 |  |
| Bengals | +1.5 -105 | u35.5 -110 | +107 | |
| ||||
Back in the lab 🧪
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— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) November 22, 2023
Mike Tomlin vs Zac Taylor
The Pittsburgh Steelers faced a challenging turn of events when they learned that Deshaun Watson (Browns) and Joe Burrow (Bengals) would be out for the season due to injuries. Despite the favorable circumstances, the Steelers stumbled against rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson in their Cleveland rematch, resulting in a 13-10 loss. Now, Pittsburgh finds itself up against Jake Browning, a relatively unknown quarterback, making his first start.
Steelers Facing Another Backup QB Challenge
Browning, undrafted in 2019, has been a journeyman in the league. However, recent weeks have seen backup quarterbacks delivering unexpectedly strong performances. The Steelers, though favored, cannot underestimate the potential challenges Browning might present. The Bengals, as 1-point home underdogs with a total of 34.5 points, are poised to make this a competitive matchup, possibly leaning towards the over.
Why the Steelers Need Offensive Improvement
The AFC North is renowned for its physical and tough brand of football. Contrary to expectations, this season has witnessed high-scoring matchups within the division, challenging the perception of automatic unders in AFC North games. For the Steelers, renowned for their defensive prowess, the need to score more points is becoming increasingly evident.
Offensive coordinator Matt Canada and quarterback Kenny Pickett face mounting pressure as offensive struggles persist. Pickett, expected to be a clutch performer, fell short in critical moments, contributing to Pittsburgh’s recent woes. In a 13-10 loss to Cleveland, Pickett’s performance raised concerns, particularly during a crucial 3-and-out drive that led to Cleveland’s game-winning field goal.
Pickett’s track record highlights a struggle to deliver consistent touchdown performances. With only one game featuring multiple touchdown passes in his 22-start NFL career, questions arise about his effectiveness and decision-making. While offensive struggles can’t be solely attributed to coaching, Pickett’s inconsistencies and missed throws are areas of concern.
NFL Pick: Over 34.5 (-108)
To Pickett’s credit, he orchestrated a 30-point game in his only start against Cincinnati last season. While a repeat of that total might be ambitious, expectations are for Pickett to contribute more points in the upcoming matchup.
Reflecting on the Steelers’ offensive struggles in the 2020 season, a stark reminder emerges from their embarrassing loss to Cincinnati as a 14.5-point road favorite. Despite starting the season 10-0, Pittsburgh faced offensive challenges and succumbed to a resolute Bengals team that leaned on the run and played aggressive defense.
Zac Taylor’s Bengals, despite losing rookie Joe Burrow to injury, showcased resilience by relying on backup quarterback Ryan Finley and securing a victory. This historical context adds another layer to the Steelers vs. Bengals rivalry, highlighting the Bengals’ ability to step up against their arch-rivals.
The Bengals’ Opportunity
With Joe Burrow sidelined, the Bengals understand the importance of capitalizing on opportunities against Pittsburgh. Despite the Steelers’ defensive prowess, the Bengals recognize the significance of this matchup, especially in the context of AFC playoff contention. Knocking out their arch-rival holds substantial importance for Cincinnati, and Jake Browning’s role becomes pivotal in their quest for victory.
The Steelers, known for their formidable defense, face the challenge of adapting to a changing AFC North landscape. The Bengals, led by Zac Taylor, have the chance to assert their presence even in the absence of star players. Trusting Browning and showcasing offensive depth beyond Burrow becomes crucial for Cincinnati’s ambitions.
Trends
Steelers Betting Trends
Pittsburgh are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Pittsburgh’s last 8 games.
Pittsburgh are 10-4 SU in their last 14 games.
Steelers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games against Cincinnati.
Pittsburgh are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games against Cincinnati.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Pittsburgh’s last 5 games on the road.
Pittsburgh are 16-4 SU in their last 20 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Pittsburgh’s last 6 games against an opponent in the American Football Conference.
Pittsburgh are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games against an opponent in the American Football Conference North division.
Pittsburgh are 12-5-1 SU in their last 18 games played in November.
Bengals Betting Trends
Cincinnati are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cincinnati’s last 6 games.
Cincinnati are 14-6 SU in their last 20 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cincinnati’s last 6 games against Pittsburgh.
Cincinnati are 10-2 SU in their last 12 games at home.
Cincinnati are 4-16 SU in their last 20 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh.
Bengal are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games against an opponent in the American Football Conference.
Cincinnati are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games against an opponent in the American Football Conference North division.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Cincinnati’s last 7 games played in November.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Cincinnati’s last 10 games played in week 12.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs Cincinnati Bengals Betting Pick
In conclusion, the Steelers vs. Bengals matchup in Week 12 transcends a simple clash on the field. It embodies the evolving dynamics within the AFC North, where backup quarterbacks and resilient teams challenge established norms. As both teams vie for supremacy, the outcome of this game will contribute significantly to the narrative of the 2023 NFL season. According to the best sports betting website, the Week 12 NFL picks tonight are leaning towards the Bengals to win this game and cover the spread.
Score Prediction: Bengals 20, Steelers 18.
