An early playoff rematch highlights Week 2’s early games, as the Bengals head to Heinz Field to face the Steelers. It was Pittsburgh who emerged victorious in last year’s Wild Card round, but not before a turnover and several penalties spoiled a late Bengals lead. Vontaze Burfict is still suspended because of that game, and the Bengals are at least a three-point underdog without him at betting sites monitored by OddsShark.com.
Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers offense looked impressive on Monday night, handling Washington 38-16. It was a balanced attack, as DeAngelo Williams carried 26 times for an impressive 143 yards. Production like that makes the Steelers very dangerous, as teams will be unable to stop Williams and protect from the deep ball at the same time.
Cincinnati is also 1-0 to start the season, but needed a strong second half to get a road win over the Jets. The Bengals got big plays from AJ Green, but were terrible on third down and lost the time of possession battle.
It’s obvious the Steelers offense is going to be great this season, but their defense is still a mystery. They did well enough to keep Kirk Cousins at bay, but Washington did manage almost 400 yards of total offense.
If the Bengals want a shot in this one, Jeremy Hill will need more than nine carries. The Bengals need balance, something the Steelers have and will flaunt on Sunday. The home team gets this one and covers.
Heavy’s Pick: Steelers 38 Bengals 30. Steelers -3.5. Over on the point total.