NFL Week 14 - New England vs Pittsburgh: Can the Patriots bend the Steelers? December 7, 2023 by Marc Jerbs

The New England Patriots (2-10) and the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-5) will face each other in a primetime clash at the Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA, on Thursday, December 7, 2023, in what could be a one-sided affair.

The Patriots are having a dismal season, with only two wins and 10 losses, while the Steelers are having a decent season, with seven wins and five losses and are in the hunt for a playoff berth.

The Patriots are one of the worst teams in the NFL this year, scoring only 12.3 points per game and allowing 21.2 points per game. Their offense is anemic, with no reliable quarterback, running back or receiver. Their defense is mediocre, with no consistent pass rush, run stop or coverage.

Long-time head coach Bill Belichick has been questionable at times, with no clear game plan, adjustments or motivation. Their fans are disappointed, with no hope, excitement or pride.

The Steelers are one of the better teams in the NFL this year, scoring 16 points per game and allowing 19.1 points per game. Their offense has been efficient, with a consistent quarterback, a dynamic running back and a talented receiver. Their defense has been solid, with a fierce pass rush, a stout run stop and a versatile coverage.

Mike Tomlin's coaching has been effective, with a smart game plan, timely adjustments and strong motivation. Their fans are satisfied, with a realistic playoffs chance, a competitive spirit and a loyal support.

The last time these two teams met was in March 2023, when the Steelers beat the Patriots 2-0 at the Acrisure Stadium, thanks to a safety by T.J. Watt in the fourth quarter.

The Steelers have dominated the Patriots in their recent head-to-head record, winning four, drawing one and losing none of their last five meetings in all competitions. However, the Patriots have been a historic rival for the Steelers, and have managed to upset them in some crucial games in the past.

Injury Report

New England Patriots

PLAYER	POSITION	STATUS
Tyrone Wheatley Jr.	WR	OUT
Kayshon Boutte	WR	QUESTIONABLE
JuJu Smith-Schuster	WR	QUESTIONABLE
DeVante Parker	WR	OUT
Demario Douglas	WR	OUT

Pittsburgh Steelers

PLAYER	POSITION	STATUS
Najee Harris	RB	QUESTIONABLE
James Pierre	CB	OUT
Elandon Roberts	LB	QUESTIONABLE
Mason Col	C	QUESTIONABLE
Kenny Pickett	QB	OUT

Sports Bet Odds

The Steelers are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Steelers are favored by 6.0 points, with a money line of -280.
• The Patriots are the underdogs by 6.0 points, with a money line of +225.
• The over/under is set at 30.5 points, with the over at -110 and the under at -110.

Both teams are eager to win on Thursday. The Patriots are aiming to snap their five game losing streak while the Steelers are looking to solidify their playoff berth.

The Patriots are desperate to end their losing streak, and will look to use their pride and experience to surprise the Steelers. The Steelers are confident and are ready to move-on from their loss at the 49ers on Week 13.

The game is likely to be a lopsided one, with a big margin and a clear winner. The fans can expect a dominant and impressive performance, as one of the best teams in the NFL faces one of the worst teams in the NFL in a crucial Thursday night match.

Team Stats

Seattle Seahawks 2nd NFC West (6-5) | Away (2-3) | STRK L2		Dallas Cowboys 2nd NFC East (8-3) | Home (5-0) | STRK W3
12.3	Point Per Game	16.0
21.2	Points Allowed	19.1
2,241	Net Passing Yards	2,155
1,244	Rushing Yards	1,384