As I made the original post for our Week 7 meeting, I thought I would get this one going as well. For both teams, this upcoming week is the most important of the season and I personally cannot wait for it. Win or lose, this is the way a season should end, with the deciding game being against a division foe.

For the Bengals, we need this, not only to get into this year's playoffs but to validate that the direction of our organisation is on the up. While we have a lot of young talent, we are still unproven. We have yet to beat the Steelers or Ravens and in the past 10 years, we've failed at the worst times.

When you look at this game on paper, it's pretty close. While I think the Bengals are more talented over all (RB, OL, DL, CB), the Steelers have the ultimate advantage in Ben. Unless Dalton steps up, this team will be unable to take the step forward it needs.

So to get this thread started, a couple of questions for you.

- What will you do with your CB situation? I know Taylor is out and I read that Allen/Lewis should be available. How big are those injuries and will they be playing at less than 100%?

- How did DeCastro look? From what I read, it seemed he looked great but I'm curious to hear it from you guys. One of our biggest offseason moves was to pass on DeCastro for Zeitler and an extra 3rd. This means they'll always be linked.

- How are you guys generating a pass rush these days? Is Harrison healthy? Is Woodley still the best he was?

- Is Polomalu still a difference maker back there or is he being relegated to a more normal safety role due to the injuries at CB? How about his injury issues?

As always, feel free to ask any questions you might have about the Bengals and I will answer them. Please keep trash talking to a minimal as I have no desire to truly engage in that. I hope we can have a great discussion like we did last time we played and keep this thread civil.