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A pivotal AFC North meeting
Cincinnati welcomes Pittsburgh with both teams tied for first in the AFC North at 6-2. The matchup could carry weight in the division race and may offer a preview of a possible postseason meeting.
Games between teams in this position often take on a playoff-like feel. Both clubs are considered well positioned to reach the postseason.
Cincinnati leans on its passing game
The Bengals have struggled to establish a consistent rushing attack this season, leaving much of the offensive burden on Joe Burrow and his teammates. Cincinnati leads the NFL in EPA per pass at 0.23. The team’s offense has not shown much versatility, making its passing production especially important in the matchup with Pittsburgh.
Defense faces contrasting challenges
Cincinnati has been effective against opposing passers, allowing 6.9 yards per attempt and 221.8 passing yards per game. The Bengals rank eighth in defensive EPA per pass at -0.11.
Against the run, however, Cincinnati has given up a league-high 5.0 yards per carry and 126.6 rushing yards per game. Its defensive EPA per rush is -0.01, ranking 27th in the NFL.
Key points
- Cincinnati and Pittsburgh are both 6-2 and tied atop the AFC North.
- The Bengals lead the NFL in EPA per pass at 0.23.
- Cincinnati allows a league-high 5.0 yards per carry.
- The Bengals rank eighth in defensive EPA per pass and 27th against the run.