Bengals vs. Steelers Prediction: ESPN Computer Model Picks Clear Favorite for Thursday Night Clash

The highly anticipated AFC North matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pittsburgh Steelers is set for Thursday night, and ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) has delivered its final prediction. According to the model, the Steelers are favored to win with a 64.3% chance, while the Bengals sit at just 35.4%.

The prediction reflects the current state of both teams as they enter Week 7. The Steelers, sitting at 4-1, are off to a strong start this season, while the Bengals, at 2-4, continue to navigate the absence of star quarterback Joe Burrow. Veteran Joe Flacco, acquired earlier this season, is expected to lead Cincinnati’s offense for the second consecutive game.

Steelers Favored as ESPN’s FPI Predicts Outcome

ESPN’s Football Power Index, a model designed to project team performance based on 10,000 simulations of the remaining season, heavily leans toward Pittsburgh in this divisional showdown. The FPI considers past results, team strength, and schedule difficulty to forecast outcomes, and this week’s projection gives the Steelers a significant edge.

“On the offensive side, certainly the story is Joe Flacco,” Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters, noting that the Bengals’ new quarterback could pose more challenges in his second start. “It’s reasonable to expect him to be significantly better in Week Two. I saw him make some anticipatory throws even last week. I thought he was significantly better as the game wore on.”

Flacco, who began the season with the Cleveland Browns, made his Bengals debut last week in a loss to the Green Bay Packers. Tomlin warned that with a week of practice and more familiarity with the offense, Flacco’s timing and cohesion with Cincinnati’s receivers — including star wideout Ja’Marr Chase — could improve dramatically.

Despite that, Pittsburgh’s defense remains one of the toughest in the league, and limiting Flacco’s effectiveness will be key to securing a road win. If the Steelers can keep Cincinnati’s offense under control, they’ll strengthen their grip on the AFC North race.

What the Prediction Means for Both Teams

For the Steelers, a win on Thursday would push them closer to the top seed in the AFC and solidify their status as one of the NFL’s most complete teams. Their defense, led by T.J. Watt, continues to be a dominant force, and quarterback Aaron Rodgers is playing efficiently behind a balanced offensive attack.

For the Bengals, the stakes are even higher. A 2-5 record would severely damage their playoff hopes, especially with Burrow expected to be sidelined until mid-December following turf toe surgery. Flacco’s performance will be under scrutiny, as the Bengals look to stay competitive in one of the toughest divisions in football.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see whether Cincinnati can defy the odds or if Pittsburgh will prove why ESPN’s model has them as the heavy favorite.

The Bengals vs. Steelers matchup kicks off Thursday night, and all eyes will be on Joe Flacco’s second start and Pittsburgh’s push to stay atop the division. According to ESPN’s prediction model, the Steelers have a clear path to victory — but in the NFL, surprises are always possible.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Bengals vs. Steelers prediction according to ESPN?

ESPN’s Football Power Index gives the Steelers a 64.3% chance to win and the Bengals a 35.4% chance.

Q2: Why are the Bengals underdogs in this matchup?

Cincinnati is without star quarterback Joe Burrow, and veteran Joe Flacco is still adjusting to the offense.

Q3: When is the Bengals vs. Steelers game?

The game is scheduled for Thursday night in Cincinnati, kicking off Week 7 of the NFL season.

Q4: What does Mike Tomlin say about Joe Flacco?

Tomlin expects Flacco to perform better in his second start and warned his team about the veteran’s experience and passing skills.

Q5: How accurate is ESPN’s Football Power Index?

FPI uses team strength, results, and simulations to predict outcomes, but actual game results can still vary widely.