The Cincinnati Bengals are looking to avoid an 0-3 start for the third consecutive year as they prepare to face the Washington Commanders on Monday night. After a narrow loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the Bengals enter this matchup as more than a touchdown favorite. A bright spot for Cincinnati is that quarterback Joe Burrow started to regain his form in Week 2, and wide receiver Tee Higgins is anticipated to return on Monday. Higgins’ presence would significantly enhance Burrow’s performance and benefit Ja'Marr Chase, who has struggled with only 10 catches and 97 yards in the first two games.
Commanders' Defensive Struggles
The Bengals will also face a Washington pass defense that currently ranks tied for 22nd in the league, having recorded just two sacks (both from Clelin Ferrell, who is unavailable this week). This presents potential opportunities for the Bengals’ offense.
Washington’s Rookie Quarterback
On the other side, Washington is starting rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick, who has emerged as one of the more effective rookies thus far. While he hasn’t thrown a touchdown, his completion rate stands at 75.5%, and he hasn’t committed any turnovers (though he has fumbled twice), while also rushing for 132 yards. Despite the Commanders’ overall struggles in recent years, they have been competitive as road underdogs, going 6-3 against the spread since the start of the 2023 season and losing only two road games by more than seven points, with just one loss exceeding eight points.
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How to Watch Commanders at Bengals
- Venue: Paycor Stadium — Cincinnati
- Time: 8:15 p.m. ET, Monday
- TV: ABC
- Streaming: Fubo (trial available)
Odds Summary
- Moneyline: Commanders +290, Bengals -360
- Spread: Commanders +7.5 (-115), Bengals -7.5 (-105)
- Total: Over/Under 46.5 (-110/-110)
This matchup feels crucial for the Bengals, who cannot afford an 0-3 start, particularly with tough AFC North competition ahead. After disappointing losses to the New England Patriots and receiving boos from their home fans, they are eager for redemption in front of a national audience. Despite Daniels’ previous experience in the SEC, he will face his toughest challenge yet in the NFL. While Cincinnati has struggled offensively early in the season, their defense has performed admirably, ranking 10th in total yards allowed per game (288.0) and second in passing yards (128.5).
The Bengals lost a close game to the reigning champions Kansas City Chiefs last week. They are yet to win a game this season.
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