The Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals meet in a pivotal AFC North matchup this Sunday, and both teams are coming off high-powered performances that set the stage for an explosive contest. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Over 51 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Sunday, October 05, 2024 – 01:00 PM ET at Paycor Stadium
Ravens’ Dominant Performance
Derrick Henry was unstoppable in his last outing, setting a Ravens franchise record for the longest run since their move to Baltimore 29 years ago. Henry rumbled for 199 yards on 24 carries, including an electrifying 87-yard touchdown that ignited the Ravens’ 35-10 win over the previously unbeaten Buffalo Bills.
Complementing Henry’s ground dominance, Lamar Jackson completed 13 of 18 passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns while adding another score on the ground.
Henry’s contributions extended beyond the run game, as he hauled in a five-yard touchdown pass—just his fourth career receiving TD and first since 2019. Baltimore’s balanced attack left the Bills’ defense scrambling, with the Ravens outgaining them 427 to 236 in total yardage. Despite the blowout, the team emphasized staying grounded, aware of the long season ahead.
Bengals Break Through for First Win
Joe Burrow and the Bengals notched their first victory of the season in a 34-24 triumph over the Carolina Panthers, thanks to a balanced offensive effort. Burrow passed for 232 yards and two touchdowns, distributing the ball effectively to his playmakers. Chase Brown was a standout, rushing for 80 yards and scoring twice, while Ja’Marr Chase put on a clinic with a 63-yard highlight-reel touchdown.
Chase’s three catches for 85 yards punctuated his ability to turn routine plays into game-changing moments. Zack Moss chipped in 78 total yards and a receiving touchdown, and Tee Higgins was a consistent threat, pulling in six receptions for 60 yards and drawing multiple pass interference penalties in key spots.
Burrow showcased his signature pocket awareness, including a dazzling 360-degree spin to evade pressure and find Moss for a 21-yard gain on third-and-five. After being bottled up for just 11 rushing yards in the first half, Cincinnati turned it around, grinding out 130 yards on the ground in the second half to seal the win.
NFL Pick
Both teams enter Sunday’s matchup with momentum on offense. Baltimore’s ability to dominate on the ground and through the air makes them a challenge for a Bengals defense that struggled to keep the Panthers off the board. On the other hand, Cincinnati’s run game and Burrow’s command of the passing attack could put pressure on a Ravens defense that was never fully tested by the Bills.
With both offenses firing on all cylinders, this game could turn into a high-scoring affair, featuring big plays and quick strikes from both sides. Don’t be surprised if this AFC North clash turns into a shootout, as each team looks to impose its offensive will in a game where touchdowns, not field goals, will decide the outcome.
NFL Pick: Over 51 (-110) at Bet365
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