There’s plenty at stake as the Cincinnati Bengals host the Minnesota Vikings in a crucial NFL matchup. This game is a test between two teams determined to improve their record and increase their chances of reaching the Postseason.
Date and Time
Date: Saturday, December 16, 2023
Time: 1:00 pm EST
Location: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati
Head-to-Head Overview
The Cincinnati Bengals and Minnesota Vikings have met 14 times previously, racking up seven wins each. Their last matchup saw the Bengals win a thrilling encounter 27-24 in overtime. Remarkably, there has only been one road win in the 14 games between the two sides.
Team Performance Analysis
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are garnering momentum thanks to memorable wins against the Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts. Those victories have put Cincinnati on the edge of a Wild Card place. Key to their recent success has been the inspired form of backup quarterback Jake Browning, who has thrown over 600 yards plus three touchdown passes during those victories.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings’ offense has been spluttering in recent weeks. Last week’s attritional 3-0 win over the Raiders followed a shock 12-10 defeat to the Bears. To try and address their lack of offensive production, problems, HC Kevin O’Connell has promoted Nick Mullens to starting QB in place of Joshua Dobbs.
Injury Report
Cincinnati Bengals Injuries
QB Joe Burrow is out for the season with a serious knee injury. Meanwhile, key players such as Tyler Boyd and Ja’Marr Chase have been limited in practice. If either or both of those players are missing, it will severely limit the Bengals’ offensive options.
Minnesota Vikings Injuries
Like the Bengals, Minnesota have also lost their star QB for the season. Aside from Kirk Cousins, RB Cam Akers is also out with a long-term injury. In addition, the availability of both Justin Jefferson and Alexander Mattison is listed as questionable.
Betting Odds
The betting odds for the game slightly favor the home team. Most oddsmakers have the Bengals priced at around 1.80 for the victory, whereas the Vikings can be backed at 2.4.
Conclusion – Too Close To Call
This is gearing up to be an intense battle, as both teams look to force their way into a Wild Card position. Both teams look considerably stronger on defense than offense, which usually means a low scoring contest. The excellent form of Jake Browning could well be the difference between the sides, and that is why we are predicting a Bengals home win.
