The 2026 NFL regular season rolls into Week 3 with one of the most anticipated and fiercely contested rivalries in professional football. Two titans of the AFC North—the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals—are set to lock horns in a battle that promises high-octane drama, bone-crushing hits, and crucial early-season divisional positioning. As football fans across the nation turn their eyes toward Pennsylvania, anticipation has reached a fever pitch for this classic clash.
The stage is officially set at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where a roaring crowd of loyal fans will create an electric atmosphere for both squads. Divisional games in the AFC North are notorious for being physical, hard-fought, and unpredictable, and this Week 3 matchup is expected to be no exception. Both the Steelers and the Bengals enter this contest looking to make a massive statement, knowing full well that early victories against divisional rivals can shape the entire trajectory of the playoff race.
The Rivalry Renewed
The history between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals is steeped in fierce competition, unforgettable moments, and decades of hard-nosed football. Every time these two teams share a field, the intensity is palpable. For the Steelers, defending their home turf against a dangerous visiting squad is paramount. Pittsburgh’s roster boasts a potent mix of veteran leadership and explosive young talent, all eager to establish dominance in the trenches.
On the other side of the ball, the Cincinnati Bengals come into this matchup armed with an explosive offensive attack capable of stretching the field and striking at any moment. Their playmakers present a monumental test for Pittsburgh's disciplined defensive unit. Fans can expect a tactical chess match between the coaching staffs, as both teams look to exploit weaknesses and capitalize on every possession. In a division as tight and competitive as the AFC North, giving an inch is simply not an option.
Official Game Information & Schedule
To ensure you don't miss a single snap of this epic AFC North showdown, here are the official kickoff details, broadcast networks, and streaming options:
Date: Sunday, September 27, 2026
Official Kickoff Time: 1:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) / 12:00 PM Central Time (CT)
Venue: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, PA
TV Channel: CBS (Regional broadcast; check local listings for coverage maps in your area)
Live Streaming: Paramount+, NFL+, YouTube TV (NFL Sunday Ticket), and FuboTV
Radio Broadcast: Steelers Audio Network – WDVE-FM (102.5) / WBGG-AM (970) for local listeners
Broadcast and Viewing Options
For television viewers, the game will be broadcast live regionally on CBS. Because coverage maps vary by media market, fans outside the local viewing area can catch the action via live streaming services such as Paramount+, FuboTV, or through NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV. International viewers and those looking for game replays can also utilize NFL+.
The broadcast booth will feature expert commentary, play-by-play analysis, and sideline reports to keep viewers completely immersed in the action. Whether you are watching from the comfort of your living room, tailgating outside Acrisure Stadium, or following live updates on your mobile device, this is one game you cannot afford to miss.
What to Watch For
As kickoff approaches, analysts have pointed to several key matchups that could decide the outcome. Field position, turnover battles, and red-zone efficiency will undoubtedly play critical roles. Can Pittsburgh's defense contain Cincinnati's star-studded passing game, or will the Bengals' offense find their rhythm early? Will the Steelers establish a dominant ground game to control the clock and wear down the visiting defense?
Make sure to mark your calendars, double-check your local TV listings, and get your game-day gear ready. The battle lines are drawn, the kickoff time is locked in, and another unforgettable chapter in the Steelers-Bengals rivalry is about to unfold. Tune in this Sunday at 1:00 PM ET to witness the drama live
