Steelers seek division control

Associated Press

CINCINNATI

The previous time the Steelers came to town, they knocked the Bengals out of the playoffs with a stunning last-minute rally.

They’re headed back with a chance to inflict another loss that will leave a lasting mark.

The AFC North leaders would unseat the defending champions with a win today at Paul Brown Stadium.

The Steelers (8-5) can maintain control of the division by winning in a place that has a homey feel for them.

They’ve won their past three in Cincinnati and six of their past seven, including the 18-16 victory in the opening round of the playoffs last January.

Penalties on Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict and cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones moved Pittsburgh in range for the winning field goal in the final seconds.

Their return trip to Cincinnati (5-7-1) was originally scheduled for prime time, given the animosity involved from the playoff game.

Burfict’s hit to Antonio Brown’s head left the receiver with a concussion, set up Pittsburgh’s winning kick, and led to a three-game suspension from the NFL. Burfict sat out the Steelers’ 24-16 win at Heinz Field on Sept. 18.

The game was switched to a daytime slot with the Bengals fading from contention, but the stakes are high for the Steelers. Plus, the hard feelings remain.

“We love playing against Pittsburgh, so we’re eager for the week and the task at hand,” Jones said. “It’s always different when we play those guys. Just one of those games that you mark on your calendar every year. I know I do, those two games.”

Pittsburgh has moved to the front of the pack in the division by winning four straight, with Le’Veon Bell rushing for at least 100 yards each game. He set a club record with 236 yards rushing last Sunday in a win over the Bills.

Bell also sat out the earlier meeting this season while serving an NFL suspension.

Thousands of Steelers fans are expected to make the five-hour drive and fill the stadium with their Terrible Towels, making the Steelers feel right at home.

“Typical one down there — crazy, riled up,” said Ben Roethlisberger, who is 11-2 at Paul Brown Stadium.