The New England Patriots will face off against the Cincinnati Bengals this Sunday in the opening week of NFL action. The game kicks off at 1:00 p.m. ET from Paycor Stadium.
The Bengals are favored by eight points, with a total game score set at 41 points.
New England finished last season with a dismal record of 4-13, marking their poorest performance since a 2-14 finish in 1992. The Patriots have not reached the playoffs in the last three years, but they are optimistic that new head coach Jerod Mayo can guide them back to postseason contention.
Cincinnati, on the other hand, ended its previous campaign with a 9-8 record but failed to secure a playoff spot due to a series of injuries that hampered their performance. The Bengals possess an exciting roster filled with potential, provided their key players remain healthy.
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A New Chapter for the Patriots
The Bill Belichick era has come to a close following last season’s disappointing four-win record. New England is now under the leadership of Mayo, who has inherited a challenging situation. The team has also moved on from quarterbacks Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe, creating an opening for North Carolina’s Drake Maye to step in. However, veteran Jacoby Brissett will lead the Patriots as their starting quarterback to start the season.
Regardless of who starts under center, finding open receivers will be a significant challenge. New England lacks a standout wide receiver and possesses one of the weakest receiving corps in the league. The Patriots will rely heavily on their ground game, particularly on Rhamondre Stevenson, who rushed for over 1,000 yards last season. Alongside him is Antonio Gibson, brought in to fill the role left by Ezekiel Elliott. The offensive line shows some promise but is expected to be average overall.
On the defensive front, the Patriots may keep some games competitive. They welcome back first-round pick Christian Gonzalez, who impressed as a rookie before injury sidelined him. Alongside Jonathan Jones, they form a solid cornerback duo. The safety partnership of Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger is also noteworthy. However, the pass rush may be less potent without key players like Matthew Judon and Christian Barmore.
Injuries: RB Antonio Gibson (hip), LB Joshua Uche (undisclosed), and G Sidy Sow (ankle) are all questionable for week one.
Bengals Aim for a Comeback Season
The Bengals enter the season with the sixth-best odds to win the Super Bowl, though many are skeptical about their chances of lifting the Lombardi Trophy. Cincinnati boasts a dynamic offense led by quarterback Joe Burrow, with standout receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. However, Burrow’s injury history raises concerns, particularly following a serious wrist injury sustained last season. While he participated in some preseason games, fans are eager to see how he performs in a full regular season game.
Cincinnati has brought in RB Zack Moss, who previously played for the Indianapolis Colts, to replace Joe Mixon, now with the Houston Texans. Rookie Chase Brown is also expected to contribute after showing promise last year. The offensive line retains three starters from the previous season and added tackle Amarius Mims from the draft. Their ability to protect Burrow will be crucial. The receiving unit, while talented, faces challenges with the departure of Tyler Boyd. The signing of tight end Mike Gesicki, who had five touchdowns last season, should bolster their offensive options.
On the defensive side, the Bengals need to address the loss of D.J. Reader, who has moved to Detroit, as well as defensive back Chidobe Awuzie. They have strengthened their safety positions by signing Geno Stone and Vonn Bell, which was necessary following last season’s struggles. The linebacker corps remains stable with Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt, both in their prime. The defense must improve its ability to pressure the quarterback, with Trey Hendrickson expected to lead that charge.
Injuries: DT Kris Jenkins is doubtful. WR Tee Higgins, WR Ja’Marr Chase, and OT Amarius Mims are all questionable for Sunday’s game.
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Smart Bets for New England Patriots vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Cincinnati’s history of slow starts (0-2 in the last two seasons) should not be overlooked. The Patriots have one of the weakest offensive lines and skill position players in the league. Starting Brissett over the rookie Maye indicates a lack of confidence in their offensive capabilities. Although New England’s defense may have the upper hand, it may not be enough to keep pace with Cincinnati, especially if Chase plays.
Burrow is likely to dispel any concerns regarding his wrist early in the game. He looked strong during the preseason, and with a talented supporting cast, the Bengals’ potential shines through. While they may not be the favorite to win the Super Bowl, a healthy Burrow and a revamped defense make them at least nine points stronger than the Patriots.
