The Steelers make their way to Cincinnati as this intense AFC Central rivalry is renewed once again.

While Pittsburgh still owns a 32-25 in the series standings and has dominated as of late, prevailing in 12 of the last 16 meetings dating back to 1991, the Bengals are coming off their first season sweep of this storied series since 1990. In Week 6 at Cinergy Field, since-departed Bengals QB Neil O'Donnell completed 20-of-26 passes for 298 yards and three touchdowns, including a 25-yard scoring strike to WR Carl Pickens with just :20 remaining, as Cincinnati overcame a late 20-18 deficit and stunned the confused Steelers, 25-20.

Two months later at Three Rivers Stadium (Week 16), Bengals QB Jeff Blake threw for 367 yards and a score (1 INT) as Cincinnati outgained their hosts, 483-211, in a narrow 25-24 win.

Despite last year's loss, the Steelers are 6-2 in their last 8 visits to Cinergy Field dating back to 1991.

Numbers: In six games vs. Cincinnati (1 with Rams, 5 with Steelers), Steelers RB Jerome Bettis has carried 143 times for 635 yards and four touchdowns, rushing for 100 or more yards in 5 of those contests. The Steelers' defense has allowed just 6 offensive touchdowns in their first five games in '99, while their offense (1) and special teams (1) have allowed two touchdowns and given up twp safeties. After not committing a turnover in their first two games (2-0), the Steelers have committed eight turnovers in their last three games (0-3) in '99. Since 1996 (including playoffs), the Steelers are 24-4 when limiting the opposition to 17 or fewer points, 8-21 when giving up more than 17 points. They have allowed just 109 points in nine wins (15 or fewer points in 7 of those contests) while giving up 284 points in 12 losses dating back to '98.

The Bengals have been limited to 17 or fewer points in three straight games. They have allowed three or more sacks in four straight games.

Things To Look For: Despite a good effort from QB Kordell Stewart, Bill Cowher's club fell short in Buffalo because his defense couldn't solve Doug Flutie. They might find the going a little easier this week against Bengals' rookie QB Akili Smith, whose rocket arm broke the hearts of the Browns' fans. Still, the Steelers' defense better get some hats on Bengals' RB Corey Dillon, or another long day is in order.

Etc.: The Steelers have lost three straight games and are 2-8 in their last 10 contests dating back to '98. Pittsburgh is 36-18 vs. AFC Central teams under head coach Bill Cowher (including 1-0 in playoffs).

The Bengals are 18-28 under Bruce Coslet dating back to '96. Over the past nine years (1991-99), the Bengals are a combined 12-57 over the first half of the season. They have lost seven straight home games dating back to '98.