The Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals rivalry never fails to deliver excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. As we dive into the 2025 NFL season, fans eagerly anticipate their latest clash. Whether you’re a die-hard Steelers supporter waving your Terrible Towel or a Bengals fan chanting “Who Dey,” knowing where to catch the game matters. This article provides the latest, most comprehensive details on how to watch the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals matchup in 2025, covering TV channels, streaming options, and more. Let’s explore every avenue so you don’t miss a single snap!
The Rivalry That Keeps Fans Hooked
The Steelers and Bengals share one of the NFL’s fiercest rivalries, rooted in their AFC North battles. These teams consistently bring intensity, with games often decided in the final moments. In 2025, their matchup promises another thrilling chapter, especially after their high-scoring encounter on December 1, 2024, where Pittsburgh edged Cincinnati 44-38. That game showcased quarterback Russell Wilson’s 414-yard performance and Joe Burrow’s relentless fightback. Now, with the regular season winding down, their next meeting on January 4, 2025, carries massive stakes—playoff hopes for Cincinnati and division title dreams for Pittsburgh.
Fans love this rivalry for its unpredictability. The Steelers lead the all-time series 71-39, but Cincinnati has shown they can strike back hard. With both teams boasting talented rosters, including stars like Ja’Marr Chase and George Pickens, this game offers a perfect mix of strategy and spectacle. So, where can you watch it unfold? Let’s break it down step by step.
Game Details: Date, Time, and Venue
The Pittsburgh Steelers host the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET. The game takes place at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a venue known for its electric atmosphere. This Week 18 showdown marks the regular-season finale, amplifying its importance. Pittsburgh enters with a 10-6 record, already playoff-bound, while Cincinnati, at 8-8, fights to keep their postseason dreams alive. The stakes couldn’t get higher, making this a must-watch event.
Acrisure Stadium’s chilly January weather—expect temperatures around 22°F with a slight chance of precipitation—adds another layer of intrigue. Will the cold favor Pittsburgh’s rugged style, or can Cincinnati’s passing game heat things up? Regardless, you’ll want to tune in. Here’s how to catch every play.
TV Channels Broadcasting the Game
Television remains a go-to option for NFL fans, and this game enjoys prime-time exposure. ABC and ESPN air the Steelers vs. Bengals clash live, giving you two major networks to choose from. In Pittsburgh, WTAE-TV (Channel 7), the local ABC affiliate, broadcasts the game for Steelers fans. Meanwhile, Cincinnati viewers can flip to WCPO-TV (Channel 9) for their local ABC feed. Both channels promise crisp visuals and expert commentary to enhance your viewing experience.
Joe Buck handles play-by-play duties, bringing his seasoned voice to the action, while Troy Aikman offers sharp analysis from the booth. Lisa Salters reports from the sidelines, keeping you updated on injuries, momentum shifts, and more. This nationally televised matchup ensures fans across the U.S. get front-row access. However, if you’re outside these local markets or prefer flexibility, streaming opens up even more possibilities.
Streaming Services: Watch Anywhere, Anytime
Streaming has revolutionized how we watch sports, and the Steelers vs. Bengals game offers plenty of online options. ESPN+ streams the game live, perfect for subscribers who already enjoy its NFL coverage. You can access ESPN+ on your phone, tablet, or smart TV, making it a versatile choice. New users often snag a free trial, so check their website for current deals before kickoff.
FuboTV delivers another fantastic streaming solution, carrying both ABC and ESPN in its lineup. With plans starting at $79.99 per month, FuboTV includes over 185 channels, catering to sports lovers. They offer a free trial for new subscribers, letting you test the service risk-free. Imagine watching Joe Burrow launch a deep pass to Ja’Marr Chase from your couch—or even on the go. FuboTV’s unlimited cloud DVR feature also lets you record the game if you can’t watch live.
Sling TV provides a budget-friendly alternative, with its Orange & Blue package priced at $55 per month. This bundle includes ESPN and often ABC (check your local availability), plus a first-month discount dropping it to $27.50. Sling’s sports lineup—featuring ESPN2, FS1, and NFL Network—keeps you covered beyond this game. Meanwhile, DirecTV Stream offers ABC and ESPN in its Entertainment package for $69.99 monthly, with a free trial to sweeten the deal. Each service brings the game to your screen with ease.
YouTube TV and NFL Sunday Ticket
YouTube TV stands out for its robust channel selection and NFL-specific perks. The base plan, currently $72.99 per month (with a $49.99 introductory rate for two months), includes ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN. For this game, you’ll find both ABC and ESPN feeds available. YouTube TV’s unlimited DVR storage ensures you can rewatch every big play—like a potential game-winning field goal from Chris Boswell.
Adding NFL Sunday Ticket to YouTube TV unlocks every out-of-market NFL game, though this game’s national broadcast means you won’t need it here. Still, at $209 annually or four payments of $52.99, it’s a worthy investment for die-hard fans. Picture this: you’re hosting a watch party, splitting the screen to catch other Week 18 action alongside Steelers vs. Bengals. YouTube TV makes it possible.
Radio Options for Audio Fans
Not everyone watches games on a screen—some prefer the classic feel of radio. The Bengals Radio Network broadcasts the game on flagship stations WLW-AM (700), WCKY-AM (1530), and WEBN-FM (102.7) in Cincinnati. Dan Hoard calls the plays with enthusiasm, while Dave Lapham breaks down the action with insider insights. For Steelers fans, WDVE-FM (102.5) and WBGG-AM (970) deliver the Pittsburgh feed, with Bill Hillgrove and Craig Wolfley leading the charge.
Nationally, Westwood One Radio covers the game, featuring Ted Emrich and Ryan Harris. SiriusXM offers another audio avenue, with Channel 225 for the Steelers broadcast and Channel 226 for the Bengals call. A free first-month trial makes SiriusXM tempting. Whether you’re driving or multitasking, radio keeps you connected to every tackle and touchdown.
Free Viewing: Is It Possible?
Everyone loves free options, and this game offers a few. FuboTV and DirecTV Stream’s free trials let you watch without paying upfront—just cancel before the trial ends. Local ABC affiliates, like WTAE-TV or WCPO-TV, broadcast over-the-air with a digital antenna, costing nothing if you own one. Picture yourself tuning in as the Bengals’ defense forces a turnover, all without a subscription.
Sling TV’s promotional first-month discount isn’t free, but it slashes costs significantly. Keep an eye on social media too—sometimes fans share unofficial streams on platforms like X, though quality and legality vary. For the best experience, stick to legit trials or antenna setups.
Mobile Apps for On-the-Go Viewing
Smartphones keep you in the game wherever life takes you. The ESPN app streams the game live with a cable login or ESPN+ subscription, offering real-time stats and highlights. NFL+ brings mobile access for $6.99 monthly, including live local and primetime games. You can catch Russell Wilson’s deep throws to George Pickens from the grocery store line.
The Bengals and Steelers mobile apps provide team-specific updates, live scores, and radio streams. Download them from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Imagine checking Ja’Marr Chase’s stats mid-game while waiting for coffee—mobile apps make it seamless.
FAQs:
1. What time does the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals game start, and where do they play?
St. The game kicks off at 8:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 4, 2025. It happens at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This late-season clash wraps up the regular season, so expect a packed crowd and high energy. Check your local time zone to sync up!
2. Which TV channels show the Steelers vs. Bengals game, and who announces it?
Chiefs ABC and ESPN broadcast the game live across the U.S. In Pittsburgh, WTAE-TV (Channel 7) airs it, while Cincinnati fans watch on WCPO-TV (Channel 9). Joe Buck calls the plays, Troy Aikman analyzes, and Lisa Salters covers the sidelines. You’ll get top-notch commentary all night.
3. How can I stream the game online if I don’t have cable?
You can stream it on ESPN+, FuboTV, Sling TV, DirecTV Stream, or YouTube TV—all carry ABC and ESPN. FuboTV offers a free trial and over 185 channels for $79.99 monthly. Sling’s Orange & Blue package costs $55, with a first-month discount. Pick one that fits your budget and device.
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