Bengals vs. Steelers: 6 Bold Predictions
5. Martavis Bryant will respond to challenge
As detailed by Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Ben Roethlisberger issued a challenge to No. 2 wideout Martavis Bryant earlier this week, urging him to “tough it up” in the playoffs. Bryant has received criticism from all manner of places in recent weeks, including the “lazy” label from analyst Merril Hoge.
With Antonio Brown drawing the focus of the Cincy secondary, Bryant will have the opportunity to make good on his quarterback’s challenge. The sophomore pro will respond by leading the Steelers in receiving yards in this game and snagging a pair of touchdown catches.
It’s been a solid, if not spectacular season for Clemson product, catching 50 passes for 765 yards and six touchdowns. Seeing as how he averaged 21.1 yards per reception and posted eight touchdowns as a rookie, however, Bryant still has work to do this season.
There’s no doubt that Bryant is one of the more talented young wideouts in the NFL right now, and he will prove that to the masses on Saturday night.
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