Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy is looking forward to Sunday night’s matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. With both teams at 6-2, the game could determine who holds the top spot in the AFC North heading into the following week.
“Divisional football is the best. I love it,” McCarthy said before practice. He added that, although he has been part of major rivalries with the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys, this matchup carries a personal connection because he grew up in the Pittsburgh area.
## A Familiar Rivalry With a Prime-Time Stakes
McCarthy recalled following the old AFC Central rivalries as a child and said he appreciates the history of the teams in the division. He has played in Cincinnati before, but said a prime-time game with significant division implications is the kind of contest players anticipate and remember.
The Steelers are also looking to avenge their 27-24 loss to Cincinnati on Sept. 27. A Pittsburgh win would even the season series and put the team in a strong position in the division race. McCarthy said winning helps build confidence: “Every time you win, a chunk of confidence goes with it.”
The Steelers and Bengals are scheduled to meet at Paycor Stadium at 8:20 p.m. ET on Sunday Night Football.
