The Miller Group
Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers
PICK: Over 34
This matches the lowest total that either team has seen this season. Pittsburgh played Baltimore with a total set at 34.5 back in late September, a game that sailed over the number with a 23-20 final score.
We've seen at least 34 points scored in each of the last eight meetings in this series, and more than 34 points in seven of those. Earlier in the season, the Steelers prevailed 38-10 in Cincinnati, eclipsing the 36.5 total.
We're dealing with a low number largely due to impending weather this evening. Snow flurries and wind are in the forecast, and Heinz Field has a history of bad field conditions. In most cases, snowy weather actually helps the offenses. Running routes is a lot easier than trying to defend those routes when your footing is less than ideal.
We expect the Bengals to open up their offensive playbook tonight. They're riding a two-game undefeated streak, and really have nothing to lose. The Steelers will be looking for a stronger offensive showing after that ugly 11-10 win over the Chargers on Sunday.
For whatever reason, these primetime games have had a tendency to play over the total, and that's a trend we're banking on continuing on Thursday night. Note that the over is 38-15-2 in the Steelers last 55 home games. Take the over.
Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers
PICK: Over 34
This matches the lowest total that either team has seen this season. Pittsburgh played Baltimore with a total set at 34.5 back in late September, a game that sailed over the number with a 23-20 final score.
We've seen at least 34 points scored in each of the last eight meetings in this series, and more than 34 points in seven of those. Earlier in the season, the Steelers prevailed 38-10 in Cincinnati, eclipsing the 36.5 total.
We're dealing with a low number largely due to impending weather this evening. Snow flurries and wind are in the forecast, and Heinz Field has a history of bad field conditions. In most cases, snowy weather actually helps the offenses. Running routes is a lot easier than trying to defend those routes when your footing is less than ideal.
We expect the Bengals to open up their offensive playbook tonight. They're riding a two-game undefeated streak, and really have nothing to lose. The Steelers will be looking for a stronger offensive showing after that ugly 11-10 win over the Chargers on Sunday.
For whatever reason, these primetime games have had a tendency to play over the total, and that's a trend we're banking on continuing on Thursday night. Note that the over is 38-15-2 in the Steelers last 55 home games. Take the over.
