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Cincinnati (2-1-0) at Denver (1-2-0)
- When: Sep 29 2025, 8:15 PM
- Where: Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO
- Where to watch: ABC
- Last Meeting: CIN 30-24, December 28th, 2024
Cincinnati vs Denver Preview & Prediction
Spread: Denver -7.5
Moneyline: Denver (-420)
Total: 44.0
Cincinnati Bengals Analysis
Cincinnati heads into Denver reeling after a 48-10 thrashing against Minnesota, the worst loss in franchise history. With Joe Burrow sidelined following toe surgery, backup Jake Browning has been forced into action and has struggled mightily. In just under two games, he’s already tossed five interceptions, turning the ball over far too often to keep the Bengals competitive.
The run game hasn’t helped him. Lead back Chase Brown is averaging only 2.0 yards per carry and has been met in the backfield on nearly 80% of his attempts. Without any consistent ground attack, Cincinnati’s offense has become predictable.
Wideout Tee Higgins, usually a big-play threat, has been quiet this season with just seven catches for 104 yards. But he may look to replicate last December’s explosive outing against Denver, where he racked up 131 yards and three touchdowns. If Cincinnati is going to keep this one close, Higgins will need to be featured early and often.
Player Prop Pick – Bengals: Tee Higgins Over 50.5 Receiving Yards – Denver’s secondary has given up chunk plays, and Higgins has a strong history in this matchup.
Denver Broncos Analysis
Denver sits at 1-2 but could just as easily be unbeaten. Back-to-back walk-off field goal losses to the Colts and Chargers, exposed the Broncos’ inability to close games despite holding leads late. Head coach Sean Payton and quarterback Bo Nix have taken heat for missed opportunities, especially with Nix misfiring on several deep throws last week.
Still, Denver has controlled long stretches of games and has the benefit of a serious home-field edge. The Broncos have won six straight at Mile High, with the altitude playing a role in wearing down visiting defenses. Courtland Sutton has been a steady force in the passing game, and with the Bengals’ secondary vulnerable, he’s poised for another productive night.
The Broncos’ defense also looms large here, especially against a Bengals team that has struggled to protect the football. If Denver’s pass rush forces Browning into mistakes, this game could get out of hand.
Player Prop Pick – Broncos: Courtland Sutton Anytime Touchdown – Sutton has been Denver’s most reliable red-zone option and should find pay dirt at home.
NFL Prediction & Betting Angle
The Bengals look overmatched without Burrow and have shown little ability to move the ball consistently. Denver, meanwhile, has been competitive against quality opponents and should finally capitalize on its chances at home.
Final Score: Broncos 27, Bengals 13
Lean: Denver -7.5
Total: Under 44.0
- NFL Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
