Richard Sherman Predicts 'Rough To Watch' Steelers Will Lose To Bengals 'By A Touchdown'

The Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for a Sunday night rematch against the Cincinnati Bengals, holding a previous 30-27 win from Sept. 27 at Acrisure Stadium. In that first meeting, the Steelers defense held Cincinnati to 352 total net yards, securing the game when defensive tackle Derrick Harmon sacked quarterback Joe Burrow and forced a fumble recovered by Sebastian Joseph-Day with 53 seconds remaining. According to TribLIVE.com, the Bengals rank second in the NFL in scoring at 30 points per game and are averaging 35.7 points per game during their current four-game win streak. Cincinnati's recent victories include a 34-17 win over Atlanta in Madrid, where they gained 123 rushing yards as part of 388 total net yards. Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham acknowledged the strong play of Cincinnati's offensive line under coach Scott Peters, noting they have allowed only 15 sacks this year while keeping Joe Burrow clean. Graham emphasized that his unit must play better in the upcoming matchup against Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. TribLIVE.com reported that the Steelers have ramped up their pass rush since beating Cincinnati, accumulating 18 sacks over the last five weeks and 26 on the season, which places them just three behind the NFL-leading Houston Texans with 29. Furthermore, the Steelers defense is tied for fifth in the league with 13 turnovers. Steelers offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio noted that while the game could turn into a shootout, their offensive approach will center on taking care of the football, controlling time of possession, and getting the ball to playmakers. Head coach Mike McCarthy also addressed the team's special teams and kicking game, stating that they are getting close to their desired output but need to finish opportunities in kicks, punts, and returns. As the team approaches the road game, Graham stressed the importance of focusing on self-scouting and playing to their strengths after utilizing the bye week to evaluate the first eight weeks of the season.