After a lackluster start for both teams, the Eagles vs Bengals matchup will be an interesting game. Both teams are looking to go on a run after beating the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns in consecutive weeks. While both teams have played better in recent weeks, questions still loom about their championship hopes.
Eagles vs Bengals brings plenty of offensive star power to the field. Additionally, both teams’ defenses have struggled for much of the season. This game should be a high-scoring affair where the defense who makes the right play at the right time will seal the win.
A Prove-It Game: Week 8 Eagles vs Bengals Picks
The Bengals Passing Attack
The superpower of the Bengals team is the combination of Joe Burrow and his receivers. The Bengals passing attack remains one of the scariest in the league, but they have not been hitting on all cylinders this year. Their offense attacks every blade of grass on the field, and they are excellent in third-down situations.
The Eagles defense has seen a boost in generating pressure recently, and they will need more of it this week. Blitzing quarterbacks like Joe Burrow too much is a bad idea. He is too smart and quick in processing and will happily get the ball out quickly to one of his playmakers. Plus, the Eagles will not want to leave one of Ja’Marr Chase or Tee Higgins on an island much in this game.
The Keys to the Game
Defensively, the Eagles need to put pressure on Burrow, so they will heavily rely on Jalen Carter and the edge rushers. Over the last two weeks, the Eagles defense has amassed 13 sacks, albeit against poor offenses. This will be the test for them to see if they really are turning the corner or if the last two games were a fluke.
You get a sack, and you get a sack, and you get a sack❗️ pic.twitter.com/sOgHsSXT0h
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) October 21, 2024
On the other side of the ball, the Eagles need to take the next steps in making a complete offensive attack. Jalen Hurts has been smart about turnovers, and the fully healthy Eagles weapons have made plays against everyone. However, they need to avoid stalling too much on offense and put together longer drives to keep the ball out of Burrow’s hands.
The Cincinnati Bengals can win this game by getting off to an early lead and forcing the Eagles to press and get back in the game. If the Eagles get into a situation where they are only taking deep shots and are forced to blitz on defense, it plays into the Bengals hands.
Eagles vs Bengals Picks
Eagles win 31-27
This game may end up coming down to the last possession. However, the Eagles pass-rush have found a rhythm, which enables Vic Fangio to run the defense how he likes to. Burrow and the Bengals will put up points, but the Eagles should as well.
The Bengals have been better against the run lately; however, they do not have the secondary to contain A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith. Ultimately, the Eagles have a little more talent on both sides of the ball, and if they limit mistakes, they can squeak out another win.
Other Prop Bets:
A.J. Brown Any Time Touchdown Scorer
Jalen Hurts 250+ Passing Yards
Over 48 Total Points
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Main Image: Vincent Carchietta – USA Today Sports