NFL Handicappers Preview: Cincinatti Bengals (8-6) at Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7) 12/23 1:00 PM EST.

by Roveri Sports for Sharkhandicapping.com

 

The best sports handicappers preview today’s AFC North matchup at Heinz Field between the 8-6 Bengals, and the 7-7 Steelers. Without question, this is a game the Steelers MUST have. They are currently 5-8-1 against the spread this season, while the Bengals are 7-6-1. Pittsburgh has dominated this matchup every time they have met over the past 2 years, winning their last 5 meetings.

 

Current Vegas Odds have the Steelers as 3 point favorites while the total currently sits at 41.5 The experts are currently leaning towards the Cincinnati spread, and playing the under heavily. While the public agrees with the experts on Cinci’s spread, they are split nearly down the middle, with the public slightly favoring the over. Regardless, this will be one heck of a game to watch.

 

The Bengals have been on an offensive surge this year, scoring 25.4 points per game, good for 9th in the NFL. They also average 347.6 yards per game. Benjarvus Green-Ellis, who carries the majority of the rushing load, has broken the 1000 yard plateau, and should be well over 1100 by the end of Sunday’s contest.  Meanwhile, Andy Dalton has completed 295 passes, good for a completion percentage of 62.5 and 3313 yards on the year. Dalton has thrown for 26 touchdowns while only throwing 14 interceptions, for a rating of 89.4

 

On the other side, the Steelers will need to find a way to execute a much more affective rushing attack, they are currently averaging 96.5 rushing yards per game which is 26th in the NFL, and certainly not where they want to be. However, Ben has the 10th best aerial attack at 248.6. Maybe if he can get his receivers to hold on to the ball, things will look a little different this week for the Steelers. Ben has been great so far with a rating of 98.1 and 22 touchdowns to go along with just 6 interceptions and 2911 yards.

 

This divisional matchup is a must watch game, both of these teams have a great deal up for grabs. The Bengals are looking to clinch the division with back to back wins over the Steelers and Ravens. Meanwhile the Steelers are looking to keep their playoff hopes alive. It will be a hard fought battle, and hopefully a fun one to see.

 

Odds courtesy of covers.com

 

Shark Handicapping offers quality picks at quality prices. No 200% lock picks, no 4 star pick of the week. Honest, quality handicapping.

 

This article has been provided to www.sharkhandicapping.com by Roveri Sports. Article written by Roverisports.com