Bengals vs Steelers: A rivalry that never disappoints

Alright, let’s talk about one of the grittiest rivalries in the NFL—the Bengals vs. Steelers. These teams don’t just play football; they throw down like it’s a backyard brawl. The history is rich, the games are physical, and as of January 4, 2025, Pittsburgh still holds a 71–40 lead in the all-time series. But Cincinnati is fighting back hard.

A game of inches (and turnovers)​

Their last two matchups? Absolute chaos.

• December 1, 2024: Steelers took it 44–38 in a shootout. Russell Wilson threw for 414 yards like he was in his prime again, while Burrow tossed three TDs but also three turnovers—ouch.
• January 4, 2025: Bengals flipped the script with a 19–17 win. Defense showed up, forcing a late turnover on downs to lock it in. Oh, and kicker Cade York basically carried Cincinnati with 13 points.

I watched that last game on my break at the hospital, and let me tell you, trying to explain to a patient why I was yelling at my phone was a fun experience.

Steelers vs Bengals match player stats​

If you're looking at individual performances, the key guys delivered.

• Joe Burrow (CIN): 37/46, 277 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, sacked 4 times.
• Russell Wilson (PIT): 17/31, 148 yards, 1 TD, sacked 4 times.
• Ja'Marr Chase (CIN): 10 receptions, 96 yards, 1 TD.
• Pat Freiermuth (PIT): 8 receptions, 85 yards, 1 TD.
• Trey Hendrickson (CIN): 3.5 sacks, 5 tackles, 1 pass deflection.
• Najee Harris (PIT): 12 carries, 36 yards, 1 TD.

Cincinnati’s defense really stepped up, keeping Pittsburgh under 200 total yards while Hendrickson added to his monster sack total for the season.

Betting on the next Bengals-Steelers matchup?​

Alright, let’s be real—it’s early to start placing bets on the 2025 season, but that doesn’t mean we can’t speculate. Here’s my early take:

1. Cincinnati’s on a roll. That win on Jan. 4 marked their fifth straight W. If Burrow can cut down on turnovers, they’ll be dangerous.
2. Steelers still have a defensive edge. Even when Wilson struggles, Pittsburgh’s defense finds ways to keep them in games.
3. Watch the spread. These teams always play tight. That 19–17 finish proves that even when the Steelers have a rough night, it’s never a blowout.

If I had to make a way-too-early bet, I’d lean towards the under on total points next time these two meet. Pittsburgh’s defense + Burrow’s sack issues = fewer fireworks. But hey, I’ve been wrong before (just ask my fantasy football team).

Any of you already eyeing next season’s lines, or am I just getting ahead of myself?