The Denver Broncos head to Paycor Stadium to take on the Cincinnati Bengals in a pivotal Week 17 matchup. The Broncos, sitting at 9-6, can clinch their first playoff berth since 2015 with a win. Meanwhile, the Bengals, at 7-8, are fighting to keep their postseason hopes alive and need a victory to stay in the mix.
These teams last met in December 2021, with the Bengals claiming a narrow 15-10 victory. Denver looks to rebound from a disappointing loss to the Chargers, while Cincinnati is riding a three-game winning streak, powered by their high-scoring offense led by Joe Burrow.
DEN Preview – Broncos Look to Secure Postseason Spot
The Broncos enter this game with a 9-6 record, bouncing back from a rough start to the season with strong performances down the stretch. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix has impressed, throwing for 2,761 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. In their last outing, Nix threw for 263 yards and two touchdowns, but the team fell short in a 34-27 loss to the Chargers.
Defensively, Denver boasts a solid secondary led by Patrick Surtain II. They are expected to get a boost with the return of cornerback Riley Moss, who has been sidelined with a knee injury. The Broncos’ defense will face a tough test against Burrow and the Bengals’ potent passing attack.
Denver’s offense has leaned on a balanced approach, with running back Audric Estime leading the ground game. Estime’s consistency will be critical as the Broncos aim to control the tempo and keep Cincinnati’s offense off the field.
CIN Preview – Bengals Fight for Playoff Survival
The Bengals sit at 7-8 and need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Joe Burrow has been sensational, leading the NFL in passing yards (4,229) and touchdowns (39). Burrow has thrown at least three touchdown passes in seven straight games, a league record, and has been the driving force behind Cincinnati’s resurgence.
Ja’Marr Chase has been Burrow’s top target, leading the league in receptions (108), receiving yards (1,510), and touchdowns (16). Chase will look to exploit Denver’s defense, though the potential absence of Tee Higgins (ankle, knee) could put more pressure on him. The Bengals’ defense has stepped up recently, forcing nine turnovers in their last two games.
Injuries are a concern for Cincinnati, with key players like Sam Hubbard (knee) and Sheldon Rankins (illness) ruled out. The Bengals’ depth will be tested as they aim to slow down Denver’s offense and give Burrow opportunities to capitalize on scoring drives.
Betting Prediction
The Bengals are 4-point favorites at home, with a total set at 49.5. Denver’s balanced offense and Cincinnati’s high-powered passing attack make this an intriguing matchup. Burrow’s recent form gives the Bengals an edge, but the Broncos’ strong defense and playoff motivation could keep the game close.
The over is an appealing option, as both teams have shown the ability to score in bunches. However, the Bengals’ home-field advantage and Burrow’s MVP-level play make them the safer pick to cover the spread.
Pick: Bengals -4, Over 49.5
