The Steelers are approaching the end of their regular season with a crucial game against the Bengals, a match that could impact playoff seeding. While the team has faced challenges with a three-game losing streak against top contenders in the NFL, there is a positive outlook that the Steel City squad can find their strength and secure a victory as they prepare for the postseason.
Grab your popcorn Steelers fans, Week 18 is upon us and these 5 matchups against the Bengals are going to be electric.
Russell Wilson vs. Bengals defense
There has been considerable skepticism among Steelers fans regarding whether QB Russell Wilson can overcome his losing streak and questionable decision-making at times. Recently, Wilson has been careless with the ball, raising concerns as the postseason approaches.
In their last game against the Bengals, however, Wilson demonstrated his past prowess as a QB with the Seahawks, making decisive throws and accumulating 414 yards through the air. If the Steelers want to secure a W in their regular-season finale, they will need the vintage Russell Wilson to show up.
Once again, players on the opposing team who will try to shake Wilson’s confidence include Cam Taylor-Britt, who intercepted the ball in their first matchup, Mike Hilton, and upfront Trey Hendrickson. During that game, Wilson successfully spread the ball around, with 10 different receivers. A key strategy will be to involve WR George Pickens early in the game to help set the tone through the air.
Chase Brown vs. Steelers defensive line
The elusive and crafty RB Chase Brown was limited to 70 yards on the ground but notched an additional 30 yards through the air scoring a TD. Overall, the Steelers managed to contain the run game, but the team’s defensive line must feel a heightened sense of urgency to prevent any big plays this Saturday night.
The Steelers have a strong reputation for their hard-hitting defensive line, players like Cameron Heyward, Patrick Queen, and Larry Ogunjobi must make their presence felt to stop the RBs from advancing to the next level. On average, Bengals RB Chase Brown gains up to 4.3 yards per carry, but that average increased to 5.8 yards per carry in their last matchup against the Steelers.
George Pickens vs. Cam Taylor-Britt
Steelers WR George Pickens always attracts the attention of opposing players due to his exceptional skills and ability to extend plays. In their first matchup, Cam Taylor-Britt intercepted a pass intended for Pickens, resulting in a pick-six.
Although there was a controversial no-call during that game, it’s clear that head coach Mike-T will be revising the game plan for Pickens this time around to prevent any significant plays from the opposition.
After dropping three consecutive games, there’s evident frustration within the team. For Pickens, the best way to turn things around is to remain composed and leverage his skills to help flip the field. The connection between Wilson and Pickens is dynamic, and fans can expect GP to have a standout performance and find the end zone at least once to keep pace with Joe Burrow and the Bengals.
Meanwhile, Cam Taylor-Britt faces the challenging task of disrupting Pickens and jumping his routes in order to once again be a playmaker for the Bengals squad.
Joe Burrow vs. Steelers' playmakers
With a wealth of playmakers at his disposal, QB Joe Burrow will aim to hand the Steelers a loss in the regular season finale. In their earlier matchup this season, Burrow was electric, throwing for 309 yards and 3 touchdowns. However, a costly interception and a strip sack allowed the Steelers to capitalize and ultimately secure a W over their divisional rivals.
If the Bengals want to be successful they will need to involve Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins early in the game. This duo is well-known for their ability to gain yards after the catch and disrupt the defensive flow. Both players scored touchdowns in their last matchup, so Steelers fans should be prepared for the possibility of them finding the end zone once again this weekend.
On the Steelers’ side, playmakers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith will aim to disrupt the Bengals’ offensive momentum. This formidable duo is recognized for their ability to penetrate the backfield and strip the football when the Steelers need a big play. As the regular season finale approaches, fans should keep an eye on Watt, who is just 2.5 sacks away from tying Myles Garrett for the top spot in sacks.
Joey Porter Jr returns vs. Bengals wide receivers
Steelers nation must be elated to hear that Joey Porter Jr. is expected to suit up for the pivotal AFC North showdown this weekend. Although JPJ has had some questionable performances, there’s no doubt that the Steelers have missed his ability to shut down opposing receivers.
With Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Mike Gesicki coming to the Burgh, JPJ’s presence is essential. The biggest concern remains whether the star CB can minimize the penalties he has a tendency to accumulate.
With playoff implications on the line, it will be crucial for the Steelers’ secondary to limit the three-headed dog of Chase, Higgins, and Gesicki. To support JPJ in his divisional challenge this weekend, Donte Jackson is also expected to help contain the damage caused by the Bengals’ WRs. Jackson made a critical interception on Burrow in their first matchup, and with the stakes even higher now, we can expect him to step up once again.
Momentum heading into the postseason
As the regular season comes to a close, the Steelers are in urgent need of a W to build momentum for their upcoming wildcard opponent. Head coach Mike T has emphasized this week the importance of changing the game’s trajectory and not allowing past performances to dictate the future.
Whether the team can rise to the occasion remains to be seen. Steelers Nation, buckle up! It's AFC North football time!