Two of the most exciting teams in the NFL will meet this Sunday at Paul Brown Stadium when the Chargers take on the Bengals.
The NFL betting lines opened with the Bengals as 2.5 point favorites but have quickly shifted to three points. The over/under is sitting at 50.5.
With the Chargers coming off a significant loss against the Broncos, could this be a bounce-back spot for them? Let’s dive deeper into the best bets for the Chargers at Bengals and find out.
Chargers Defense Has Major Holes
In their last six games, the Los Angeles Chargers are 2-4, and the defense has struggled.
On the season, they rank 29th in points allowed (26.6).
Even worse, in their last seven games, opponents average over 30 points against them. Yet, surprisingly, the Chargers are one of the top teams against the pass in the NFL. They rank 5th best in opponent pass yards allowed per game (204.9).
It’s the run defense that is losing them games. On average, the Chargers give up 145.3 rush yards per game, the worst in the league. However, with Cincinnati’s running back, Joe Mixon, coming off a game where he rushed for 165 yards and two touchdowns, I’m expecting the Bengals to run the ball early and often.
Bengals Running Game Catching Fire
The Cincinnati Bengals’ offense has sputtered at times this season. Only a few weeks ago, they lost 41-16 to a Browns team that is now in complete disarray.
They are choosing the right time to heat up, though. The Bengals averaged 36.5 points their last two games and look unstoppable.
In those two big wins, against Pittsburgh and Las Vegas, Joe Burrow only has a pair of passing touchdowns. But, again, this shows us how important the ground game has been for the Bengals.
Despite Burrow’s lukewarm numbers, the Bengals were able to rush for a combined total of 409 yards and five touchdowns. I think the Bengals will stick to the ground game this week versus a weak Chargers front and should have lots of success with it.
Chargers at Bengals: Best Bets
With the spread only at a field goal right now (-3), I’m betting on the Bengals and their running game. The Chargers and Justin Herbert can cause havoc through the air (they average 280.8 passing yards per game), and the Bengals’ pass defense ranks 25th in passing yards allowed per game.
Because of that, and with Mixon running well, I expect Cincy to pound it on the ground and keep the ball away from Herbert and wide receiver Keenan Allen. Look for the Bengals to try and pick up as many first downs as possible while not asking too much of Joe Burrow.
Since the over/under is only at 50.5, I think this game the over is the best bet here. The Bengals have the fourth-best red zone touchdown percentage at 70%, while the Chargers sit at 61.7%. I’m expecting a 28-24 score in favor of the Bengals.
Place Your Wagers Today
This week’s Chargers at Bengals game should be an exciting matchup. Both teams need a win to stay competitive in their respective divisions and increase their chances of making the playoffs.
Whichever you decide to bet, make sure you place your wagers at the best online sportsbook, BetMGM. Sign up for an account today and receive a risk-free initial bet worth up to $1,000.
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