The Pittsburgh Steelers are reeling from a three-game skid as they prepare for their regular-season finale against the Cincinnati Bengals. This matchup holds significant stakes for both teams, with the Steelers aiming to clinch the AFC North crown, contingent on the Cleveland Browns managing to upset the Baltimore Ravens earlier on the day of the game. Conversely, the Bengals find themselves needing to secure a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
The Steelers' struggle has been marked by glaring defensive lapses, allowing an average of 402 yards and 30 points per game over their recent losses. Offensively, the woes are just as evident, with the Steelers failing to score more than 17 points over the same stretch. This combination of issues has resulted in time of possession problems, often leaving the defense on the field for extended periods.
Devin McCourty, former NFL player and three-time Super Bowl champion, weighed in on the Steelers' situation during his recent appearance on Up & Adams. "What’s going on in Pittsburgh?" he asked, voicing concerns over the team's lack of cohesion. He elaborated, saying, "The defense has been talking about they need all eleven guys, not ten guys and one. George Pickens going off probably what is momma or grandma taught him; ‘if you don’t have something nice to say don’t say anything.’ So he aborted mission… It’s momentum, it’s how you’re playing, and for Pittsburgh, everyone’s talking about how it’s a must-win for Cincinnati to get to the playoffs. To me, this is turning to be a must-win for Pittsburgh."
The stakes for both teams couldn’t be higher. The Bengals, who entered the game with an 8-8 record, find themselves with playoff aspirations. If they can defeat the Steelers, they also need the New York Jets to upset the Miami Dolphins and the Kansas City Chiefs to overcome the Denver Broncos for them to qualify as the No. 7 seed. Despite the long odds, the Bengals aim to play hard, capitalizing on any opportunity to secure their playoff berth.
For the Steelers, the scenario is simpler yet equally pressing. While winning would be beneficial, particularly if the Browns manage to pull off the upset against the Ravens, should the Ravens win, all the Steelers would gain from defeating the Bengals is merely altering the travel plans for their potential playoff game. Nonetheless, securing the win would be monumental, serving as a much-needed morale boost for the team.
Another angle to watch is the dynamic between quarterback Russell Wilson and wide receiver George Pickens. Following Wilson's criticisms of Pickens for perceived complacency during previous games, observers are interested to see how this tension might influence the team’s on-field performance. It is anticipated Wilson will make it a point to get Pickens involved early during this must-win game to mend any rifts and maintain offensive chemistry.
Compounding the competitive narrative is the Pittsburgh defense, which has struggled significantly throughout the season. Speculations circulate over whether this will finally be the week where the heralded Steelers pass rush returns to form against Joe Burrow and the Bengals. The earlier matchup this season saw the Steelers narrowly triumph 44-38, with Wilson throwing for 414 yards and claiming three passing touchdowns. But as the season has progressed, questions remain about whether the Steelers are capable of high-scoring shootouts anymore, particularly with their recent performance at such odds.
With all eyes on Acrisure Stadium this weekend, the tension is palpable as both teams prepare to head onto the field. The game will be broadcast on ESPN and ABC, with kickoff slated for 6 p.m. MST (8 p.m. ET) on January 4. For fans of both clubs, this game is more than just another matchup; it stands as a pivotal moment for the future of their respective seasons.
The stakes are undoubtedly high, and with the postseason looming, the Steelers have the opportunity to shift momentum at this significant juncture. A win not only ends their streak of lost games but also reestablishes them as viable contenders for the playoffs—a factor no fan would overlook. The stage is set; now it’s time for both the Steelers and the Bengals to deliver.