- What: NFL Regular Season Game
- When: December 28, 2024
- Who: Denver Broncos vs. Cincinnati Bengals
- Time: 1:30 p.m. PST
- Where: Paycor Stadium (Cincinnati, OH)
The stakes couldn’t be higher for the Cincinnati Bengals as they prepare to face the Denver Broncos in a crucial Week 17 matchup.
With a playoff berth on the line, the Bengals are fighting for their season and trying to prove that they can compete with the best in the AFC.
The line is set at 3.5 points in favor of the Broncos, but I’m not buying it. Here’s why I believe the Bengals will emerge victorious.
Denver
Now, let’s look at the Broncos.
Sure, they’ve had a decent season, sitting at 9-6, but they just dropped a game to the Los Angeles Chargers, which snapped their four-game win streak.
That loss could have a lingering effect on their confidence. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix has shown flashes of brilliance, but he’s also had his share of struggles.
It's GAMEDAY in Cincy!
RT if you're ready for #DENvsCIN. pic.twitter.com/r4B9XUG5rR
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 28, 2024
He’s thrown for 3,235 yards and 22 touchdowns, but he’s also been inconsistent at times.
The Broncos are 7-0 when Nix is sacked one or fewer times, which means their success heavily relies on their offensive line’s ability to protect him.
If the Bengals can apply pressure, it could be a long day for Nix. The Broncos have a 5-2 record at home, but they’ve shown vulnerabilities on the road.
Cincinnati
First off, let’s talk about momentum. The Bengals are riding a three-game winning streak, and they’ve finally found their groove.
Quarterback Joe Burrow is playing at an MVP level, leading the NFL with 4,229 passing yards and 39 touchdowns. He’s been on fire, throwing at least three touchdowns in seven straight games.
This isn’t just a fluke; Burrow has consistently delivered, and he’s got the weapons to back him up. Ja’Marr Chase is in the mix for the receiving triple crown, boasting 108 receptions, 1,510 yards, and 16 touchdowns.
Be there or be square!!#RuleTheJungle x @MillerLite pic.twitter.com/wvI8B14ypP
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) December 28, 2024
The chemistry between Burrow and Chase is undeniable, and they’re ready to exploit any weaknesses in the Broncos’ defense.
Speaking of pressure, the Bengals’ defense has been quietly improving.
They’ve forced nine turnovers in the last two games, and they’re coming off a dominant performance against the Cleveland Browns, where they held them to just six points.
If they can maintain that level of play, they’ll be able to disrupt Nix and keep the Broncos’ offense in check.
Let’s not forget about the home-field advantage. The Bengals will be playing at Paycor Stadium, where they’ve struggled this season with a 2-5 record. However, this is a different scenario.
The energy in the stadium will be electric, and the fans will be behind them, pushing them to secure a much-needed win.
Broncos-Bengals Best Bet
When it comes to betting, I’m taking the Bengals on the moneyline at -185 odds.
Yes, it’s a bit steep, but I believe in Burrow and the Bengals’ offense to put the Broncos away and keep their playoff hopes alive for another week.
The 3.5-point spread is just past the key number of 3, and I’m not convinced the Broncos are the better team right now. The Bengals are playing with urgency, and that’s a dangerous combination.
The Bengals have everything to play for, and they’re hitting their stride at the right time.
With Burrow leading the charge and a defense that’s starting to find its rhythm, I’m confident that Cincinnati will take down the Broncos and keep their playoff dreams alive. It’s do-or-die for the Bengals, and I expect them to rise to the occasion.
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Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.
