5 Key Questions on Patriots’ Next Rival: The Bengals
The New England Patriots are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 12. Last season, the Patriots pulled off an unexpected victory against the Bengals. However, this time, New England stands at an impressive 9-2 record, while Cincinnati struggles at 3-7. The differences between their current standings create a compelling narrative as the teams prepare to face each other.
Understanding the Bengals’ Offense Without Joe Burrow
One of the major discussions leading up to the game is the Bengals’ offensive performance in the absence of star quarterback Joe Burrow. During games featuring backup Jake Browning, the offense struggled to gain momentum. The addition of Joe Flacco as a starter brought a different dynamic to the offense with a more traditional pocket-passing approach. This shift allowed for an improvement in their running game.
- Joe Burrow may return but could face challenges due to a toe injury.
- Rust may impact Burrow’s performance after missing games.
- Ja’Marr Chase’s absence forces other players to step up.
The Challenge of Losing Key Players
Ja’Marr Chase’s injury is another obstacle for the Bengals. In his absence, players like Tee Higgins and rookie Andrei Iosivas will need to take on more significant roles. Higgins, known for his physicality, may face difficulty against stronger cornerbacks. Although he excels in exploiting mismatches, his effectiveness could be hindered by the type of defensive coverage he encounters.
Defensive Woes in Cincinnati
The Bengals’ defense has faced considerable challenges this season. Changes in coaching and personnel have not yielded positive results. Despite investing three of their top four 2022 draft picks in defensive players, the team’s overall performance has declined, leading to low rankings in various metrics.
- Loss of key locker room leaders has affected team morale.
- Injury and performance issues have led to critical gaps in the defense.
- DJ Turner remains a standout player despite the team’s struggles.
What Happens If the Bengals Upset the Patriots?
If the Bengals manage to pull off an upset against the Patriots, they will need to play complementary football. This includes making the most of defensive stops and maintaining balance on offense, regardless of the quarterback situation. Creating turnovers will also be vital; the Bengals have struggled in this area since Week 7.
Conversely, a straightforward victory for the Patriots hinges on their consistent performance across all facets of the game. As a team that has often been overlooked, they might thrive under the pressure of a “chip-on-their-shoulder” mentality.
Conclusion
As the New England Patriots and Cincinnati Bengals prepare to face off, a variety of factors will influence the outcome. The Patriots’ strong season contrasts sharply with the Bengals’ struggles. This game will not only test the depth of the Bengals’ roster but also challenge the Patriots to stay focused and avoid complacency.
