NFL Picks: Preseason Week 2: Bengals vs Ravens
As Friday night’s lights prepare to shine over the NFL preseason, the Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up to challenge the Atlanta Falcons in what promises to be a showdown worth watching. With the opening kickoff slated for 7:30 PM EST, let’s dive into the intricacies of both teams and what we might expect from this duel.
BUSR NFL Lines
Spread: Bengals +6.5 (-110), Falcons -6.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Bengals +202, Falcons -255
Total: Bengals O 38.5 (-110), Falcons U 38.5 (-110)
Bengals’ Preseason Analysis
The Bengals experienced an adrenaline shot of relief after discovering that their stellar quarterback, Joe Burrow’s injury was only a calf strain. Everyone in Cincinnati sighed in relief. With an impressive track record over the past two seasons, including appearances in the Super Bowl and AFC Championship, the Bengals’ hopes are soaring for 2023. While Burrow’s sidelining might seem like a setback, it offers a silver lining. It provides the team with a golden opportunity to evaluate their other quarterbacks, Trevor Siemian and Jake Browning, more critically.
In their opening clash with the Packers, neither quarterback showcased their best. The lack of availability of their top receivers, such as Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd, certainly didn’t help. However, with Higgins possibly on the bench, Chase and Boyd are likely to get their moment in the spotlight against the Falcons.
Defensively, the Bengals had their challenges against the Packers, but there’s hope that their first-string defense will showcase a more solidified performance against the Falcons.
With the previous season concluding at 12-4 for the Bengals and a face-off with the Chiefs in the AFC Championship, they’re on track for an impactful 2023 season. This preseason remains crucial for settling some vital position debates, especially the backup QB spot. Moreover, with newly added players like Sidney Jones IV, fans can expect a more polished performance from the first-string players, albeit for a limited time.
Falcons’ Prospects for 2023
The Falcons are heralding a new era with Desmond Ridder as their quarterback, especially after Marcus Mariota’s departure. They’ve ensured that Ridder is well-equipped with a robust offensive arsenal. This includes the dynamic Bijan Robinson and free agents like Jonnu Smith and Mack Hollins. While the key players sat out in the preseason opener, anticipation is rife to see them in action against the Bengals.
Defensively, the Falcons have made notable strides that will help their NFL Odds all season long. The inclusion of players like Jessie Bates III, Jeff Okudah, Mike Hughes, Calais Campbell, and Bud Dupree signifies their intent to fortify their defense. Under the guidance of head coach Arthur Smith, the Falcons are optimistic about integrating more of their starters in the week 2 clash.
Predictions and Insights
The upcoming match might tilt in favor of the Falcons, given the recent performance and strategy of the Bengals. Cincinnati, with their eyes firmly set on the Super Bowl, will likely adopt a more conservative approach, ensuring their key players remain fit and ready for the challenging AFC North season. On the other hand, the Falcons, while not Super Bowl-centric yet, possess a team with tremendous potential. The experience that Ridder accumulates this season is pivotal for the team’s prospects.
Considering the vigor and enthusiasm of the youthful Falcons against the more experienced Bengals, the game is set to be a dynamic clash, reflecting the ambitions and strategies of both teams. The Falcons, with their dual quarterback strength of Ridder and Heinicke, are poised to capitalize on the Bengals’ probable second-string defense, making it a game to remember.