If the 1-1 Cincinnati Bengals expect to take the next step and become a playoff contender, they need to start winning some games against divisional foes like Pittsburgh, especially at home.

That is exactly what they are going to try to do as the Steelers look to win their ninth straight against the Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium on Sunday afternoon in Cincinnati.

NFL odds makers recognize the progress the Bengals are making, but not enough to call them home favorites as the Vegas line is sitting at Pittsburgh -3.5 with the total in the contest set at 36.5.

Last week against the Bears, Pittsburgh missed two fourth-quarter field-goals and lost. Jeff Reed missed twice in the final period of Pittsburgh's 17-14 defeat at Chicago last Sunday. One of Reed's misses was from 38 yards out, after going 39 for 40 inside 40 yards last season.

After last week's disheartening loss, Pittsburgh should certainly be motivated for its first AFC North game.

"It's a war of wills when you walk into that stadium," said Matt Starks. "As soon as one team breaks the other one usually the game is over."

For the Bengals, running back Cedric Benson has been a huge help to the Cincinnati offense. Last week against the Packers, ran for 141 yards in Cincinnati's 31-24 victory. The Bengals are 4-0 when getting at least 100 yards from Benson.

I like Cincinnati to put in a good showing in this one. Take Bengals getting the 3.5 points at home.