Where and How to Watch Bengals vs Steelers: Start Time, Channel, Prediction

The Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers meet in a high-stakes AFC North battle on Thursday Night Football in Week 7. The game kicks off at 8:15 p.m. ET on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio.

This divisional clash carries major playoff implications as the Steelers look to extend their division lead, while the Bengals aim to salvage their season after a tough start. Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch, when it starts, and what to expect.

How to Watch Bengals vs Steelers Live Tonight

The Bengals vs Steelers Thursday Night Football game will be streamed exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. Fans with an active Prime subscription can watch the game live from any device. The broadcast team will feature Al Michaels (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst), and Kaylee Hartung (sideline reporter).

For viewers in local markets, the game will also air on free over-the-air channels without a Prime subscription. In Cincinnati, the game will be simulcast on WCPO (ABC 9). In Pittsburgh, it will be available on WTAE (ABC 4). Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET.

This Week 7 matchup is the fourth straight divisional game featured on Thursday Night Football this season. With the Steelers entering at 4-1 and the Bengals sitting at 2-4, both teams have plenty on the line as the race for the AFC North tightens.

Game Preview and Prediction

The Steelers have been one of the most balanced teams in the NFL through the first six weeks. Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been efficient, forming strong chemistry with star receiver DK Metcalf. Pittsburgh’s defense, led by T.J. Watt, has returned to its dominant form after a slow start, ranking among the top units in turnover differential.

Meanwhile, the Bengals continue to struggle without Joe Burrow, who suffered a turf toe injury in Week 2. Cincinnati’s offense has faltered behind backup quarterbacks, prompting the team to sign veteran Joe Flacco in hopes of stabilizing the passing game. The offensive line remains a glaring weakness, and the defense ranks 29th in EPA per play, leaving them vulnerable against Pittsburgh’s balanced attack.

Despite being at home, Cincinnati faces an uphill battle. The short week could make it harder for the Bengals to adjust, and Pittsburgh’s ability to pressure the quarterback might overwhelm Flacco. If the Bengals cannot establish any run game or protect the pocket, they risk falling even further behind in the AFC North race.

Prediction: Steelers 27, Bengals 17. Pittsburgh’s defense should control the game, while Rodgers and Metcalf do enough offensively to keep the Steelers atop the division.

What’s at Stake in This AFC North Showdown

This matchup could have major implications for both teams’ playoff hopes. A Steelers win would push them to 5-1 and solidify their position atop the AFC North. A Bengals loss, meanwhile, would drop them to 2-5, making a postseason push increasingly difficult.

For Cincinnati, this game is about survival. With the Ravens and Browns also competing for playoff spots, a win over the division leader could spark a turnaround. For Pittsburgh, a victory on the road against a desperate rival would signal that they are legitimate contenders in the AFC.

Final Word: All eyes will be on Paycor Stadium Thursday night as the Steelers try to tighten their grip on the division and the Bengals fight to keep their season alive. The main keyword — Bengals vs Steelers — defines one of Week 7’s most consequential matchups.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time does Bengals vs Steelers start?

The game kicks off at 8:15 p.m. ET on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025.

Q2: What channel is Bengals vs Steelers on?

The game streams exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. Local broadcasts are on WCPO (ABC 9) in Cincinnati and WTAE (ABC 4) in Pittsburgh.

Q3: Where is Bengals vs Steelers being played?

The Week 7 matchup will be played at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Q4: Who is predicted to win Bengals vs Steelers?

The Steelers are slight favorites due to their strong defense and balanced offense. Prediction: Steelers 27, Bengals 17.

Q5: What’s the Bengals’ current record?

The Bengals are 2-4 entering Week 7, while the Steelers are 4-1 and lead the AFC North.