Denver (9-6-0) at Cincinnati (7-8-0)
- When: Dec 28 2024, 4:30 PM
- Where: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
- Where to watch: NFL Network
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals
Moneyline
Denver Broncos +155
Cincinnati Bengals -180
Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals
Point Spread
Denver Broncos 3.5 (-120)
Cincinnati Bengals -3.5 (EVEN)
Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals
Total
Over 50.5 (-115)
Under 50.5 (-105)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Key Players:
Denver: Bo Nix
Cincinnati: Joe Burrow
Team Stats
| Broncos | Bengals | |
| 9-6 | Record | 7-8 |
| 4-4 | Away & Home | 2-5 |
| 11-4-0 | ATS | 9-6-0 |
| 10-4-1 | O/U | 10-5-0 |
Last Matchup:
CIN 15-10, December 19th, 2021
Game Preview
The Denver Broncos visit the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday afternoon in a pivotal AFC clash with playoff implications for both teams. Denver, sitting at 9-6, can clinch its first postseason berth since 2015 with a win, while Cincinnati (7-8) fights to stay alive in the playoff race.
Denver Broncos: Playoff Spot Within Reach
The Broncos had a chance to lock up a playoff spot last week but squandered a 21-10 lead against the Chargers, falling 34-27 and snapping their four-game win streak. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix played well in the loss, completing 29 of 40 passes for 263 yards and two touchdowns.
Denver’s defense will receive a boost with the return of cornerback Riley Moss, who is set to play after missing three games with an MCL injury. Moss will team up with All-Pro Patrick Surtain II in the secondary, a critical matchup against Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, who has been on an absolute tear.
Betting Angle: Denver’s defense will need to be at its best to contain Cincinnati’s high-powered offense, and Moss’s return could help the Broncos keep it close.
Cincinnati Bengals: Fighting to Stay Alive
The Bengals come into this game riding a three-game win streak, needing a victory to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Joe Burrow is leading the league in completions (384), passing yards (4,229), and touchdowns (39), and he’s made NFL history by throwing at least three touchdowns in seven straight games.
Cincinnati’s offense has been firing on all cylinders, led by Ja’Marr Chase, who is on pace to capture the receiving Triple Crown with 108 receptions, 1,510 yards, and 16 touchdowns. Running back Chase Brown has also been effective, racking up over 100 scrimmage yards in each of the last five games.
Defensively, the Bengals have been opportunistic, generating nine takeaways in their last two games. However, injuries could be a factor, with key contributors like Tee Higgins (questionable) and defensive linemen Sam Hubbard and Sheldon Rankins (out) sidelined.
Betting Angle: The Bengals’ offensive firepower and home-field advantage make them favorites, but their injury concerns on defense could leave room for Denver to cover.
Key Matchups and Trends:
– Joe Burrow vs. Denver Secondary:
Burrow’s historic streak will be tested by a Denver defense that gets a boost with Riley Moss’s return.
– Bo Nix vs. Bengals Defense:
Nix will face a Bengals unit that has forced nine turnovers in the last two games. Limiting mistakes will be crucial for Denver.
– Ja’Marr Chase’s Dominance:
Chase’s elite production could be the difference-maker, especially with Cincinnati’s injury-depleted defense.
Predictions and Best Bets:
– Spread: Cincinnati -3.5
While Denver’s defense will put up a fight, Burrow’s momentum and Cincinnati’s home-field advantage should carry the Bengals to a narrow victory.
– Total: Over 50.5
Both offenses are capable of putting up points, and with Denver’s improved passing game and Cincinnati’s explosive attack, the total should go over.
– Player Prop to Watch: Ja’Marr Chase Over 92.5 Receiving Yards
Chase has been unstoppable and will be heavily targeted as Cincinnati looks to exploit Denver’s secondary.
Conclusion:
This game features two teams with playoff hopes on the line, but Cincinnati’s offensive firepower and Burrow’s historic form give them the edge. Denver’s defense, bolstered by Riley Moss, may keep it close, but the Bengals should secure a win and cover the spread in what promises to be an exciting, high-scoring contest.
NFL Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Cincinnati 27-23
The Pick: Cincinnati -3½ (+100) & Under 50½ (-105)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $390
- NFL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
