With the NFL regular season wrapping up in an exciting way, the Denver Broncos (9-6) are set to take on the Cincinnati Bengals (7-8) on December 28, 2024, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. This game is crucial for both teams’ playoff hopes, so it’s definitely one that fans and analysts won’t want to miss.
Game Details
Date: Saturday, December 28, 2024
Time: 4:30 PM ET
Location: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio
Current Standings and Stakes
The pressure is on as both teams battle for a playoff spot. The Broncos are barely hanging on to a wild card position; if they win, they’ll lock in their spot for the postseason and might knock the Bengals out of the race. On the other side, if Cincinnati wins, it boosts their playoff hopes, especially since they’ve been on a roll with three straight wins against teams that are already out of the running.
Team Form and Recent Performance
Denver Broncos
The Broncos have really bounced back this season, especially when it comes to covering the spread, which puts them among the top teams in the NFL in that area.
Key Players:
Bo Nix (QB): The young quarterback has really stood out this season, hitting 326 out of 507 passes for 3,235 yards, racking up 22 touchdowns while throwing 11 interceptions. His ability to extend plays with his legs has brought a fresh element to the Broncos’ offense.
Javonte Williams (RB): The strong running back has gained 485 yards on 134 attempts, scoring 4 touchdowns along the way. His tough running approach is key to building a solid ground game.
Courtland Sutton (WR): Sutton stands out as the top receiver, racking up 71 catches for 928 yards and scoring 6 touchdowns. His size and skills in making tough catches in tight spots make him a go-to guy when the pressure’s on.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals have really flipped the script on their season after a rough beginning. They’ve won three wins in a row, but they know those wins were against teams that aren’t in the playoff race.
Key Players:
Joe Burrow (QB): This guy really shines on the field, boasting a completion rate of around 68%. He’s thrown for more than 4,229 yards and racked up an impressive 39 touchdowns while only tossing 8 interceptions. Burrow’s calmness in the pocket and ability to read defenses set him apart as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.
Chase Brown (RB): Brown has already rushed for more than 923 yards this season, boasting a strong average per carry. His ability to contribute as both a runner and a receiver from the backfield really enhances the Bengals’ offensive game.
Key Matchups to Watch
Broncos Offensive Line vs. Bengals Defensive Line
The Broncos’ offensive line needs to step up and keep Bo Nix safe, especially against a Bengals defense that’s had its moments but can be hit or miss. If Nix feels secure in the pocket, it could lead to some big plays down the field.
Cincinnati’s Secondary vs. Courtland Sutton
Sutton’s ability to take advantage of coverage mismatches is going to be crucial for Denver’s passing game. The Bengals’ secondary needs to keep an eye on Sutton while also staying alert for other potential threats.
Run Defense
Both squads have to get their running game going right from the start. The Broncos need to keep Chase Brown in check while also figuring out how to effectively use Javonte Williams. The team that can dominate the line of scrimmage will probably set the tempo for the game.
This game is shaping up to be a tight one, considering what’s at stake. The Broncos have been doing well lately and seem ready to put up a fight. On the flip side, the Bengals have the home advantage, and with Joe Burrow at the helm, they could really make a difference.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Cincinnati Bengals 27 – Denver Broncos 23
This forecast takes into account the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, suggesting a game with plenty of points. Cincinnati is likely to come out on top, thanks to their recent form and the benefit of playing at home.