RB Le'Veon Bell vs. RB Giovani Bernard
These two rookies are competing for the first time as professionals after being the first two running backs drafted in 2013. Both backs have shown their versatility in the running game and in the passing game, as Bell is quickly approaching 1,000 all-purpose yards, while Bernard surpassed that mark last week. Both rookies have seen increased roles in their respective offenses as the season has progressed and will have another opportunity tonight to add to their already productive and impressive rookie campaigns.
DE Cam Heyward vs. LB James Harrison
Coming off of a career-high 12-tackle performance against the Dolphins, Heyward finds himself tied for the team lead with 25 quarterback pressures and leads all defensive linemen with 50 tackles and four sacks. Harrison has found himself contributing in an increased role over the course of the season, moving into the starting lineup and playing both inside and along the line of scrimmage. Pittsburgh knows what the former All-Pro Harrison brings to the game, while the Bengals will have to deal with a steady dose of an emerging and feisty Heyward. These are two players to definitely keep an eye on as they do their best to wreak havoc on the opposing offense.
TE Heath Miller vs. TE Tyler Eifert/TE Jermaine Gresham
Heath Miller has come on strong as of late, registering 24 receptions for 250 yards in his last four games and reaffirming why he is one of Ben Roethlisberger's favorite targets. Eifert and Gresham, meanwhile, have combined for 75 catches and four touchdowns this season and both are big, athletic targets that can create mismatches in coverage. The player or players that are better able to find holes in coverage or draw defenders away from their wide receivers could be key pieces to a victory.
