Tomlin Predicts Steelers Will Deliver a 'Butt Kicking' to Bengals in AFC North Clash

Key points

• Mike Tomlin stated at the 2026 Hall of Honor Dinner that he wishes he could be present for the 'butt kicking' the Steelers will deliver to the Bengals.
• The Cincinnati Bengals are 2-0 and considered heavy favorites, while the Pittsburgh Steelers are 1-1 and struggling offensively, averaging 11.5 points per game.
• Tomlin highlighted the Steelers' defensive strength, specifically citing T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward as key players who can disrupt the Bengals.
• The Bengals' quarterback Joe Burrow has been managing a back issue, with his practice workload uncertain leading up to the game, though he completed 20-of-31 passes in Week 2.
• The Steelers have maintained their Week 3 depth chart without changes, keeping Spencer Anderson at right guard, while monitoring potential injury impacts on players like Rico Dowdle and Michael Pittman Jr.

Background

The Bengals have been performing well, with their defense described as dominant, and they are favored by 3.5 points for the upcoming game. The Steelers, however, have faced offensive struggles, averaging only 11.5 points per game, and recently lost to the New England Patriots. The game will not be available on local CBS affiliates in several major U.S. markets due to scheduling conflicts, requiring fans to use NFL Sunday Ticket via YouTube TV or watch at sports bars. The Steelers' rookie quarterbacks, Drew Allar and Will Howard, showed promise in preseason, but the team is currently relying on their established roster for the regular season.

Why it matters

This matchup is significant as it represents the first AFC North clash of the 2026 season, with the Bengals looking to maintain their momentum and the Steelers aiming to turn around their season. Tomlin's confidence highlights the Steelers' belief in their defensive capabilities, which could be crucial in neutralizing the Bengals' offense. The game also has broader implications for the AFC North standings and could influence the teams' trajectories in the regular season.

What to watch

The Bengals and Steelers will face off on Sunday in Pittsburgh, with the game expected to be a competitive matchup despite the Bengals' favored status. The Steelers' defensive performance will be key in determining the outcome, and the game's availability on local CBS affiliates in several major markets may affect viewership. The Bengals' quarterback Joe Burrow's practice workload and final injury designation will also be monitored as the game approaches.