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The Cincinnati Bengals are still in the running for a playoff spot as a Wild Card team, but to pull it off, they likely need to win out. That push starts Sunday at home against the AFC North-leading Pittsburgh Steelers, who sit at 8-3.
The Bengals have yet to beat a team with a winning record this season, earning the dubious distinction of being kings of one-score losses. Missed kicks and defensive collapses have been their undoing. Coming off their bye week, the Bengals hope some soul-searching has transformed them into a team capable of turning things around.
Here are key matchups to watch in what essentially serves as a playoff game for Cincinnati.
Amarius Mims vs. T.J. Watt
The AFC North is home to some of the NFL’s most dominant pass rushers, and T.J. Watt is one of the best. While Watt has just 7.5 sacks this season, the four-time All-Pro will undoubtedly look to disrupt Joe Burrow and make him uncomfortable in the pocket.
For rookie Amarius Mims, this matchup represents his toughest test yet. The first-round pick has faced elite edge rushers like Maxx Crosby this season, but Watt’s relentless playmaking ability is a different challenge. Watt primarily lines up against the right tackle, meaning Mims will need to hold his own. If he can, the Bengals can use their backs and tight ends in the passing game more effectively.
Bengals’ Defensive Front vs. Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren
The days of Ben Roethlisberger throwing for 5,000 yards are gone. The Steelers have reverted to a more traditional approach, leaning on strong defense and a heavy run game. They’ve attempted the third-most rushing plays in the league this season but are averaging just 3.9 yards per carry.
This plays into the Bengals’ favor, as Cincinnati’s front seven has struggled against the run in 2024, allowing the fourth-most rushing touchdowns. Forcing Pittsburgh to become one-dimensional will be critical. If the Bengals can shut down Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, they’ll take a big step toward winning on Sunday.
Josh Newton and Cam Taylor-Britt vs. George Pickens and Van Jefferson
The Bengals’ secondary has been a liability this season, hindered by injuries and inconsistent play. While the Steelers don’t boast the most talented receiving corps the Bengals have faced, George Pickens has proven dangerous, averaging over eight targets per game in the last three weeks.
Josh Newton steps into the lineup with DJ Turner on injured reserve and is likely to be tested early due to his inexperience. Meanwhile, Cam Taylor-Britt, benched in Week 11 due to struggles, needs to regain his form after the bye. If Taylor-Britt and Newton can step up, the Bengals will have a better chance of stifling the Steelers’ passing game.
Cordell Volson and Alex Cappa vs. Cameron Heyward
Cameron Heyward has been a thorn in the Bengals’ side for years, and the future Hall of Famer continues to disrupt games in his 14th NFL season. Heyward has five sacks from the defensive interior this year, and his presence will test Cincinnati’s offensive line.
Guards Cordell Volson and Alex Cappa have struggled, allowing nine sacks combined, according to Pro Football Focus. Interior pressure from Heyward could prove especially disruptive, as it limits Burrow’s ability to step up in the pocket to avoid edge rushers like Watt.
Joe Burrow vs. the Weight of the Franchise
The Bengals’ 4-7 record doesn’t show how competitive they’ve been, with every loss except one coming in close games. The main reason they’ve stayed in contention? Joe Burrow. The star quarterback is playing at an MVP level, even as the team around him falters.
The Bengals’ run game has been inconsistent, the defense folds in critical moments, and kicker Evan McPherson has struggled with long-distance kicks and in clutch situations. Despite these issues, Burrow has kept the Bengals alive. If they’re going to make a playoff run, it’ll be on Burrow’s shoulders.
Zac Taylor vs. Mike Tomlin
Coaching will play a pivotal role in Sunday’s game. Mike Tomlin has solidified his reputation as one of the NFL’s best coaches, while Zac Taylor’s abilities are under scrutiny. The Bengals’ struggles this season have put multiple assistant coaches on the hot seat, and Taylor himself may not be immune.
In tight games where plans unravel, it’s on the coaches to adapt and guide the team to victory. Taylor’s ability to lead the Bengals through adversity is officially under the microscope. A win against Tomlin and the Steelers would go a long way in proving Taylor deserves to keep his job.