Cincinnati Bengals vs. Washington Commanders: Monday Night Football Preview
As the NFL season unfolds, the Cincinnati Bengals find themselves in a surprising position, entering their Week 3 matchup against the Washington Commanders with an 0-2 record. In contrast, the Commanders have managed to secure a win, boasting a 1-1 record. This Monday Night Football clash promises to be an intriguing contest, especially with the Bengals favored by 7.5 points in the latest odds.
Current Odds Overview
The betting landscape for the Commanders vs. Bengals matchup is as follows:
| Teams | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Commanders | +7.5 (-110) | +285 | O 47 (-110) |
| Cincinnati Bengals | -7.5 (-110) | -325 | U 47 (-110) |
The Bengals opened as 8-point favorites, but the line has shifted slightly, reflecting the betting action and the current state of both teams. Kickoff is set for 8:15 PM ET at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio, with ESPN providing coverage.
Tee Higgins: A Welcome Return
One of the most significant storylines heading into this game is the return of Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins, who will make his 2024 season debut after missing the first two games due to a hamstring injury. Higgins’ absence allowed opposing defenses to focus their efforts on shutting down star receiver Ja’Marr Chase, but with Higgins back in the lineup, Cincinnati’s offense is expected to be much more dynamic.
Higgins, standing at 6’4", is a formidable deep threat who averaged a career-best 16 yards per catch last season. His ability to stretch the field will not only open up opportunities for himself but also create more space for Chase and the rest of the Bengals’ receiving corps. This added dimension to the offense could be crucial against a Commanders defense that has struggled against the pass.
Bengals Offense vs. Commanders Defense
The Bengals showed signs of life in their recent game against the Kansas City Chiefs, where quarterback Joe Burrow made several impressive throws despite concerns about a wrist injury. The Commanders’ pass defense has been a weak point, currently ranking last in pass defense efficiency and allowing the third-most passing yards per attempt. In their first two games, they allowed a combined six touchdown passes to quarterbacks Daniel Jones and Baker Mayfield, which bodes well for Burrow and the Bengals’ passing attack.
With Higgins back, Burrow is likely to exploit the Commanders’ vulnerabilities. Bettors might find value in wagering on Burrow to exceed his passing touchdown prop, especially given the favorable matchup.
Jaydon Daniels: The Rookie’s Challenge
On the other side of the field, the Commanders will rely heavily on rookie quarterback Jaydon Daniels, who has had a promising start to his NFL career. Daniels, who succeeded Burrow at LSU and won the Heisman Trophy last season, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced challenges. He has yet to throw a touchdown pass this season, and his star receiver, Terry McLaurin, has been largely contained, managing only 39 receiving yards through two games.
Daniels has been effective in moving the chains, completing 76% of his passes, but he has also taken a significant number of hits, rushing 26 times already this season. His ability to escape pressure and make plays with his legs will be crucial against a Bengals defense that has been effective in man coverage but may leave gaps for a mobile quarterback.
Predictions and Betting Insights
As the game approaches, analysts are leaning towards a high-scoring affair. The Bengals’ offense, bolstered by Higgins’ return, is expected to put up points against a struggling Commanders defense. Conversely, Daniels’ mobility could lead to some offensive success for Washington, particularly if he can exploit the Bengals’ man coverage scheme.
For those looking to place bets, consider the following:
- Burrow Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns: Given the Commanders’ defensive struggles, this bet appears to have strong potential.
- Total Points Over 46.5: With both offenses capable of scoring, this game could easily exceed the total set by sportsbooks.
As the Bengals aim for their first win of the season, all eyes will be on how they respond to the pressure of a must-win game on national television. With Higgins back in the fold and a favorable matchup against the Commanders, Cincinnati is poised to make a statement on Monday Night Football.