Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Odds, Analysis, NFL Pick

The Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) hope to have starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (knee) in the lineup for the first time since Week 3 when they host the Cincinnati Bengals (6-0) Sunday in a key AFC North matchup. The Steelers have won eight of their last nine games after a loss, going 7-1-1 against the spread, and they have also earned a victory in eight of the past 10 meetings with the Bengals straight up and ATS.

Point spread: This game was off the board early in the week at sportsbooks monitored by Odds Shark. (Line updates and matchup report)

NFL pick, via Odds Shark computer: 25.6-24.0 Steelers

Why the Bengals can cover the spread

Cincinnati appears to be a much different team this season, so any previous trends do not necessarily apply here. The Bengals have beaten some quality opponents as well in going 5-0-1 ATS, including the two-time defending NFC champion Seattle Seahawks, giving them plenty of confidence heading into this divisional rivalry game.

It also helps that Roethlisberger has missed the last four games, so he will be a bit rusty even though he is still Pittsburgh’s best option at quarterback right now. Cincy’s defense knows he will not be too mobile either and will look to put some major pressure on him to disrupt Pittsburgh’s offense. The Steelers have been winning games lately with their defense, and the Bengals will test them both through the air and on the ground.

Why the Steelers can cover the spread

Roethlisberger’s return would mean a lot to the team whether he is 100 percent or not. Pittsburgh’s two best offensive players–wide receiver Antonio Brown and running back Le’Veon Bell–have been underutilized in his absence and should finally be able to play up to their potential again with him back on the field.

In addition, the Steelers own the Bengals and have been in their heads for years. Cincinnati looked like the best team in the division last season as well before Pittsburgh stole the AFC North crown in the final game. This is one of those games where you either choose to trust Roethlisberger, who has won two Super Bowls, or Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton, who has yet to win a playoff game. That’s a no-brainer.

Smart pick

This game was off the board earlier in the week pending Roethlisberger’s status, as his presence obviously means a ton to the Steelers. Cincinnati’s ability to maintain its perfect record will come down to how healthy Big Ben is on Sunday. If he appears ready to roll and can do some damage, the Bengals will no longer be unbeaten after Week 8.

Betting trends

The Steelers are 8-1 SU and 7-1-1 ATS in their last nine games after a loss.

The Bengals are 2-8 SU and ATS in their last 10 games against the Steelers.

The Steelers are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games at home.

All point spread and lines data courtesy of Odds Shark. All quotes gathered firsthand unless otherwise noted. Check out Twitter for injury and line movement updates and get the free odds tracker app.