As the NFL season heats up, all eyes are on the upcoming clash between the Denver Broncos and the Cincinnati Bengals. Scheduled for 4:30 pm ET on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH, this matchup is set to be a thrilling spectacle. Fans can catch the action live on the NFL Network.
Opening Odds at USA Sportsbooks
For those looking to place a wager, the sportsbooks have released their opening odds. DraftKings lists the Broncos as +3.5 underdogs against the Bengals, who are favored at -3.5, with an over/under of 50 points. Bet365 and BetMGM have the spread slightly tighter, with the Broncos at +3 and the Bengals at -3, maintaining the over/under at 50 points.
Season Record
The Broncos enter this game with a 9-6 record, placing them third in the AFC West. Meanwhile, the Bengals hold a 7-8 record, also sitting in third place, but in the AFC North. Both teams have had their ups and downs this season, and this game could be pivotal for their playoff hopes.
Recent Form
Recent performances have been a mixed bag for both teams. The Denver Broncos suffered a narrow defeat in their last outing, losing 34-27 on the road to the Los Angeles Chargers. On the other hand, the Cincinnati Bengals are coming off a convincing 24-6 home victory against the Cleveland Browns, showcasing their potential to dominate.
Denver Broncos vs Cincinnati Bengals Preview and Analysis
The Broncos are looking to bounce back after their recent loss. With a 9-6 record, they are vying for a playoff spot and need a win to solidify their position. Rookie QB Bo Nix has shown promise, completing 29 of 40 passes for 263 yards and 2 touchdowns in their last game. However, the defense, which has been a strong point for the Broncos, needs to tighten up after conceding 34 points to the Chargers.
The Bengals, with a 7-8 record, are still in the hunt for a playoff berth. Their recent victory against the Browns was a testament to their offensive prowess, led by QB Joe Burrow, who threw for 252 yards and 3 touchdowns. The Bengals’ defense, often criticized this season, stepped up last game and will need to maintain that form against the Broncos.
Broncos vs Bengals Prediction
The Bengals are currently favored by 3.5 points, according to DraftKings Sportsbook. Despite their 7-8 record, the Bengals have shown flashes of brilliance, especially on offense. Their defense has improved in recent weeks, and they have the momentum heading into this matchup. The Broncos, while strong defensively, have struggled against high-scoring teams. With the Bengals playing at home and in playoff mode, they are expected to cover the spread. Our prediction for this Saturday’s game is Bengals 30, Broncos 24.
NFL Betting Trends
For those interested in betting trends, here are some key statistics:
- Denver Broncos: 10-3 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points, 8-3 ATS vs. good offensive teams scoring 24 or more points/game, 12-5 ATS versus poor defensive teams allowing 5.65 yards/play or more.
- Cincinnati Bengals: 1-5 1H ATS after allowing 14 points or less last game, 5-8 1H ATS off a home win, 8-4 OVER off a home win.
Key Injuries
Both teams have notable injuries that could impact the game:
- Denver Broncos: D. Jones (DT) – Finger, J. Franklin-Myers (DL) – Foot, P. Surtain (CB) – Ankle, J. McLaughlin (RB) – Quad, R. Moss (CB) – Knee.
- Cincinnati Bengals: T. Hendrickson (DE) – Finger, T. Hudson (TE) – Knee, S. Hubbard (DE) – Knee, A. Cappa (G) – Concussion, G. Stone (SAF) – Shoulder, C. Ford (G) – Illness, K. Jenkins (DT) – Illness, S. Rankins (DT) – Illness, O. Brown (OT) – Fibula, C. Jones (WR) – Groin, J. Burrow (QB) – Wrist, T. Higgins (WR) – Rest.
Notable Quotes
Both coaches have shared their thoughts on recent performances:
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Sean Payton, Broncos’ head coach, remarked, “Obviously, a disappointing loss. There was a lot at stake, and we know that. We had a fast start, and then uncharacteristically this season, we didn’t finish or play nearly well enough in the second half, both offensively and defensively.”
- Zac Taylor, Bengals’ head coach, noted, “It’s a 14-point swing. Not only did it take the life out of them a little bit, getting the stop on the 1-yard line then going 99 (yards) gave us a lot of confidence and set the tone.”
Starting Lineups
Here’s a look at the expected starting lineups for both teams:
| Denver Broncos | Cincinnati Bengals |
|---|---|
| WR Sutton, Courtland | WR Chase, Ja’Marr |
| WR Humphrey, Lil’Jordan | WR Higgins, Tee |
| WR Vele, Devaughn | WR Iosivas, Andrei |
| TE Trautman, Adam | TE Gesicki, Mike |
| QB Nix, Bo | QB Burrow, Joe |
| RB Williams, Javonte | RB Brown, Chase |
| FB Burton, Michael |
Statistical Leaders
Here’s a glance at the statistical leaders for both teams:
- Denver Broncos: Passing: B. Nix (3235 yards), Rushing: J. Williams (485 yards), Receiving: C. Sutton (928 yards), Touchdowns: C. Sutton (6).
- Cincinnati Bengals: Passing: J. Burrow (4229 yards), Rushing: C. Brown (923 yards), Receiving: J. Chase (1510 yards), Touchdowns: J. Chase (16).
As the game approaches, fans and bettors alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a thrilling encounter. With playoff implications on the line, both teams will be giving it their all to secure a crucial victory.
