Cardinals vs Bengals Prediction NFL Picks Today 10/8
- Lm Tipster
- Oct 8, 2023, 6:06:41 AM
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Bengals vs. Cardinals - Preview and Prediction
Prepare for a high-scoring showdown as the Cincinnati Bengals (1-3) face off against the Arizona Cardinals (1-3) in an inter-conference battle on Sunday afternoon. Both teams have experienced ups and downs this season, and this clash promises to be a thrilling one. Their last meeting in 2019 saw the Cardinals emerge victorious with a score of 26-23. Kickoff for this exciting matchup is set for Sunday afternoon.
Bengals' Rollercoaster Season
The Cincinnati Bengals have been on a rollercoaster ride this season, showing flashes of contention but struggling for consistency. They began the season with two losses, falling to the Browns on the road and the Ravens at home. Their first win came against the Rams, a narrow 19-16 victory. However, they stumbled in week four, suffering a disappointing 27-3 defeat to the Titans, despite being slight 2.5-point favorites. So far, they have yet to cover the spread this season.
Burrow's Injury Impact
Quarterback Joe Burrow has been battling a calf injury, which has affected his performance. While he managed to throw for 259 yards in the win against the Rams, his output dropped to just 165 yards against the Titans. His numbers this season, with 728 passing yards and a 2:2 TD-to-INT ratio, are below his usual standards. The injury has undoubtedly played a role in his performance.
Struggles in the Running Game
The Bengals' running game has faced challenges, with Joe Mixon's 67 rushing yards last week being his best performance of the season. Mixon has accumulated 247 rushing yards at an average of 4.2 yards per carry. On the receiving front, Je'Marr Chase has been a bright spot, contributing 141 yards against the Rams and 73 yards against the Titans, leading the team with 284 receiving yards. However, the Bengals' offense ranks near the bottom in many categories, partly due to Burrow's injury and a struggling running game.
Defensive Struggles
Defensively, the Bengals have not lived up to their potential this season, allowing at least 24 points in three of their four games. While they contained the Rams in week three, they struggled against the Titans, surrendering 400 total yards to a mediocre offense. The pass defense ranks 14th, but the rush defense encountered issues last week, ranking 31st in the league. The Bengals have work to do on both sides of the ball.
Cardinals Seeking Redemption
The Arizona Cardinals are on a quest for redemption after a 1-3 start to the season. They faced early defeats against the Commanders and the Giants but bounced back with a surprising 28-16 home win against the Cowboys in week three. However, they stumbled again in week four, suffering a 35-16 loss to a strong 49ers squad on the road. Despite their record, the Cardinals have covered the spread in three of their four games.
Dobbs Leading the Charge
Quarterback Joshua Dobbs has stepped up in the absence of Kyler Murray, delivering solid performances. Dobbs recorded 228 passing yards against the Giants and 265 yards against the 49ers' formidable defense last week. He currently boasts 815 passing yards and an impressive 4:0 TD-to-INT ratio for the season.
Strength in the Running Game
The Cardinals' running game has been a source of strength, with James Conner consistently delivering. Conner amassed 106 rushing yards against the Giants and has accumulated 318 rushing yards at an impressive 5.2 yards per carry. Facing a struggling Bengals rush defense, he's poised for another strong performance. In the receiving department, Marquise Brown leads the team with 239 yards, closely followed by Michael Wilson with 237 yards. The Cardinals' offense has shown the ability to put up points, scoring at least 28 in two of their last three games.
Defensive Challenges
Defensively, the Cardinals have faced challenges, particularly evident in their game against the 49ers where they allowed 35 points and 395 total yards. While the pass rush has been notable with 12 sacks, the pass defense ranks 24th, and the rush defense also comes in at 24th. Despite these challenges, the Cardinals are posting an average of 22 points per game, ranking 18th in the league. Their defense has allowed an average of 25.5 points per game, placing them 25th.
Prediction:
For those looking for an enticing betting opportunity, the over of 45 points stands out as an attractive option in this matchup. Both the Cincinnati Bengals and the Arizona Cardinals have shown the ability to put points on the board, even amidst their struggles. The inconsistencies in both teams' defenses and the potential for big plays on offense make the over a compelling bet.
While each team has faced its fair share of challenges this season, they possess offensive firepower that can exploit defensive weaknesses. Joe Burrow and Joshua Dobbs, despite their injuries, have the capability to orchestrate scoring drives. With talented receiving corps and running backs, both offenses are primed to contribute to a high-scoring affair.
Considering the tendencies of these teams and the potential for explosive plays, taking the over of 45 points appears to be the best bet for this matchup. It's a game that promises offensive fireworks, and football fans should be ready for an exciting, high-scoring contest on Sunday.
