Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (illness) and linebacker Logan Wilson (knee) are inactive for the season's first matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, further depleting a Cincinnati defense that is already down to a third-string cornerback in Josh Newton, after the injuries throughout the year to Dax Hill and DJ Turner.

The Cincinnati Bengals’ playoff hopes all hinge on the team defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers at home on Sunday. A win could set them on the path to a wildcard berth, while a loss would likely kill them.