Cincinnati Bengals: 4 Players Who Have to Step It Up Against Pittsburgh Steelers

The 6-2 Cincinnati Bengals have already far surpassed expectations this season, but their divisional matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday will without a doubt be their biggest challenge to this point.

A win over Pittsburgh would solidify Cincinnati as a legitimate playoff contender, but toppling the mighty Steelers is easier said than done.

Here are four Bengals who absolutely must play well this weekend in order for Cincy to pick up the W.

Andy Dalton

Rookie quarterback Andy Dalton has received nothing but praise so far this season, and rightfully so, but this Sunday's game against Pittsburgh will essentially be his first true test as an NFL quarterback.

Dalton has shown great composure through the first nine weeks of play, but the Bengals have yet to face a top-tier, fast-flying defense like that of the Steelers. The youngster will have to play his very best this weekend if he hopes to lead Cincinnati to a sixth straight win.

Andrew Whitworth

In order for Dalton to find success against Pittsburgh's stout D, tackle Andrew Whitworth and the rest of the Cincy offensive line will have to come up huge on Sunday.

Lamar Woodley and James Harrison make for a scary pass rush duo in Pittsburgh, and they'll be hunting down Dalton all afternoon.

Whitworth will have the daunting task of protecting the young QB's blindside, but if he can stand his ground, that could go a long way toward a Cincinnati victory.

Cedric Benson

Pittsburgh's defense is one of the best in all of football, but they have been suspect against the run at times.

Considering that the Steelers will likely focus on taking away the Bengals' potent downfield passing attack, running back Cedric Benson should have the opportunity to make some things happen on the ground.

Benson has looked less than spectacular this season—he has scored just two touchdowns and racked up just over 500 yards, but if he can get things rolling this weekend he could supply the Bengal offense with some much needed balance.

Leon Hall

Pittsburgh's passing offense boasts an array of talented young wideouts, but none are more dangerous than speedster Mike Wallace.

Wallace has developed into one of the NFL's most unstoppable downfield weapons, and Cincinnati corner Leon Hall will more than likely be faced with the task of covering him all afternoon.

Hall has the talent to shut down anybody in the league, but he'll have to play one of his best games of the year in order to keep Wallace under control.