SPORTS NETWORK OVERALL ANALYSIS
Cincinnati has to be regarding this game as its last stand, so it's reasonable to assume the beleaguered bunch will put forth its best effort against a division opponent on a national stage. That may not be enough, however, against a Pittsburgh team that's superior in several facets and is in no danger of letting down after losing their last contest and being swept by the Bengals a year ago. Cincinnati's going to need a top-level performance from Palmer to come out on top, and it's highly questionable the hit-or-miss quarterback will able to provide one. Using a back-to-basics method built on running the football and playing stout defense, look for the Steelers to avenge one of the losses that kept them out of the postseason last year.
Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Steelers 20, Bengals 13