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. The Bengals, however, are looking to turn their fortunes around as they host the Commanders, who come into the game with a 1-1 record. Cincinnati is currently a 7.5-point favorite in the betting odds, reflecting the optimism surrounding their chances to secure their first win of the season.
Current Odds Overview
The odds for the Commanders vs. Bengals game are 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 spread opened at -8 for the Bengals but has seen some movement, settling at -7.5 as professional money influenced the line. The total for the game is set at 47, indicating expectations for a competitive matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 PM ET at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, with ESPN providing the broadcast coverage.
Tee Higgins’ Impact on the Bengals Offense
One of the most significant storylines heading into this matchup is the return of wide receiver Tee Higgins, who will make his 2024 season debut after missing the first two games due to a hamstring injury. Higgins’ presence is expected to be a game-changer for the Bengals’ offense, which struggled in Week 1 against New England but showed signs of life in a close contest against Kansas City.
With Higgins back in the lineup, defenses can no longer focus solely on Ja’Marr Chase. The 6-foot-4 wideout averaged a career-best 16 yards per catch last season and has two 1,000-yard receiving seasons under his belt. His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches will be crucial against a Commanders defense that has struggled in pass coverage.
Bengals’ Offensive Momentum
In their last game against the Chiefs, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow demonstrated that his wrist injury was not a significant hindrance, making several impressive throws. With Higgins back, Burrow is expected to unleash a more dynamic passing attack. The Commanders’ pass defense has been particularly vulnerable, ranking last in pass defense efficiency and allowing the third-most passing yards per attempt. This sets the stage for Burrow to potentially exceed his passing touchdown prop of 1.5, especially considering the struggles of Washington’s secondary.
Washington Commanders: Jaydon Daniels’ Challenge
On the other side of the field, the Washington Commanders will rely heavily on rookie quarterback Jaydon Daniels, who is looking to establish himself in the NFL. Daniels, who succeeded Burrow at LSU and won the Heisman Trophy last season, has shown promise but faces a tough challenge against a formidable Bengals defense.
Despite completing 76% of his passes, Daniels has yet to throw a touchdown this season and has struggled to get star receiver Terry McLaurin involved, with only 39 receiving yards through two games. The Bengals’ defense has yet to allow a receiver to surpass 80 yards, making it imperative for Daniels to find ways to connect with his top targets.
Defensive Matchups and Strategies
The Bengals have employed a heavy man coverage scheme, which has been effective in limiting opposing passing games. However, this strategy can leave gaps for a mobile quarterback like Daniels, who has already rushed 26 times this season. His ability to escape pressure and make plays with his legs could be a key factor in keeping the Commanders competitive.
As the Bengals look to tighten their grip on the game, they will need to balance their aggressive pass defense with the awareness of Daniels’ rushing ability. Expect a chess match between the two coaching staffs as they adjust their strategies throughout the game.
Betting Insights and Predictions
Given the current odds and the matchup dynamics, many analysts predict a high-scoring affair. The Bengals’ offense, bolstered by Higgins’ return, is poised to exploit the Commanders’ defensive weaknesses. Bettors might consider taking the over on the total points, currently set at 47, as both teams could find success moving the ball.
Additionally, with the Commanders’ defensive struggles, betting on Burrow to exceed his passing touchdown prop seems like a solid wager. The combination of a healthy Bengals offense and a vulnerable Washington defense sets the stage for an exciting Monday Night Football showdown.
As the Bengals aim for their first victory of the season, all eyes will be on Paycor Stadium to see if they can deliver a performance that matches their potential.