NFL Picks: Preseason Week 3 Commanders vs Bengals

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The aura surrounding the NFL preseason is building up as the Cincinnati Bengals, with a record of 0-1-1, look to end their run with a flourish against the Washington Commanders, who have a perfect 2-0-0 record. The football enthusiasts are eyeing FedExField, with the clash scheduled to kick off at 6:05 PM ET on Saturday.

BUSR NFL Lines:

• Spread: Bengals +3 (-110), Commanders -3 (-110)
• Moneyline: Bengals +137, Commanders -168 (-110)
• Total: Bengals O 34.5 (-110), Commanders U 34.5 (-110)

Bengals in Search of Their Maiden Preseason Victory

Recovering from their setback against the Packers, the Bengals managed a tie against the Falcons. As the regular season beckons, they are determined to clinch a win this Saturday, hoping to register their inaugural preseason triumph.

In terms of numbers, the Bengals posted an average of 16 points across two preseason games. Their air game produced 202.5 yards, while the ground attack chipped in with 74.5 yards per game. Jake Browning emerged as the chief orchestrator for the Bengals, achieving a 67% completion rate, racking up 235 yards but marred by two interceptions. On the rushing front, Chris Evans stood out with 64 yards off 14 carries. The receiving core saw Andrei Iosivas shine, grabbing nine catches to accumulate 94 yards.

However, the Bengals’ defensive units faced challenges, conceding an average of 24.5 points in two matches. Their resilience in the last game, where they surrendered only 13 points, would be the template they’d hope to replicate against the Commanders.

Commanders Eyeing a Hat-trick of Wins

With a victorious streak, the Washington Commanders are brimming with confidence. Their remarkable feat of halting Baltimore’s 24-game preseason victory run stands as a testament to their current form. As they gear up to battle the Bengals, they aspire to secure their third consecutive win.

Washington’s average scoreline reads an impressive 23 points in two games. They’ve demonstrated offensive prowess, clocking 231 yards through the air and an additional 130 yards on the ground. The spotlight in the passing game undoubtedly rests on Sam Howell, who boasts a stellar 75% completion rate, translating to 265 yards and three touchdowns.

The Commanders’ defensive side, while commendable, does leave some room for improvement, having allowed an average of 21.5 points. Their recent game saw them concede 28 points, a figure they’d aim to reduce against the Bengals.

An interesting element in the Commanders’ strategy has been their ever-changing in offensive performance. Their initial game witnessed a somewhat lackluster output, but the narrative shifted dramatically in the subsequent game. A pivotal factor was Howell’s standout performance, marked by two touchdown passes. While speculation is rife that Howell might not feature in the upcoming clash, the Commanders can find solace in the depth of their roster. Jake Fromm and Jacoby Brissett, both reliable backup quarterbacks, are poised to steer the ship against the Bengals. Cincinnati’s challenges, especially their inability to contain the run, might be exploited by Washington, given that the Bengals have conceded nearly 400 rushing yards in two games.

On the Bengals’ side, their offense has shown signs of turbulence, compounded by Joe Burrow’s injury and the absence of most starting offensive players during the preseason. Their running game, too, seems to be in a quandary, amassing less than 150 yards over two games. Given the Commanders’ robust defense against the run, the backup quarterbacks for Cincinnati could be up against a herculean challenge.

Recommendations

Analyzing both teams’ form, strategies, and performances so far, the odds seem tilted in favor of the Washington Commanders. The inconsistencies and challenges faced by the Bengals, especially in their offensive play, might play into the hands of a buoyant Commanders’ side. Football enthusiasts, students of NFL Odds, and those with a penchant for betting might find value in backing Washington to not only emerge victorious but also cover the spread.