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Sunday Night Football in Week 6 brings an intriguing matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Surprising many, the Giants (2-3) hold a better record than the Bengals (1-4) heading into this clash.
After a dramatic 29-20 road win against the Seahawks in Week 5, the Giants have gained momentum, while the Bengals, reeling from a 41-38 overtime loss to the Ravens, continue to seek answers to their defensive woes.
The Bengals offense, led by Joe Burrow, has been one of the most productive in the league despite their record. Burrow has thrown for 1,370 yards, 12 touchdowns and only 2 interceptions so far this season. Ja’Marr Chase has also been electric, with 29 receptions for 493 yards and 5 touchdowns, including a monstrous 10-catch, 193-yard, 2-touchdown performance against Baltimore.
The Bengals offense has averaged 35 points per game over their last three contests, yet they’ve only managed one win in that span. The challenge hasn’t been scoring but rather stopping opponents on defense. Still, with Burrow operating at an elite level – averaging +0.3 EPA (Expected Points Added) per play in the past three games – the Bengals have been able to keep pace in high-scoring affairs.
The Giants defense, however, is a different story. After a rough start to the season, where they allowed 28 points to the Vikings, New York has tightened up considerably. They haven’t allowed more than 21 points in their last four games, including matchups against strong offenses like the Cowboys and Seahawks. Defensive coordinator Wink Martindale’s front four, particularly Kayvon Thibodeaux and Dexter Lawrence, has been a disruptive force, applying consistent pressure and forcing opponents into mistakes.
The key for the Bengals will be handling the Giants’ pressure. Burrow’s offensive line will need to hold up against a pass rush that has been steadily improving, and the Bengals will rely on quick throws to Chase and Tee Higgins to avoid costly sacks.
The Giants offense showed some promise in Week 5, particularly in the run game. Rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. stepped up for the injured Devin Singletary, rushing 18 times for 129 yards against the Seahawks’ depleted front seven. The Bengals’ rush defense, ranked among the worst in the league, could present a prime opportunity for Tracy Jr. to have another big game, especially if Bengals’ defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins remains sidelined.
Quarterback Daniel Jones hopes to have rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers back from concussion protocol. Nabers, who has 35 catches for 386 yards and 3 touchdowns in his first four games, could exploit a Bengals secondary that just lost safety Dax Hill to injury. The Giants’ offense has relied on a balanced attack, but getting Nabers back would add a much-needed deep threat.
The Bengals’ defense, meanwhile, has struggled mightily, allowing 29 points per game, the second-worst in the league. Their inability to close out games was on full display against the Ravens, where they allowed 13 unanswered points in the final 5 minutes of regulation. With Derrick Henry taken out of the game script in the second half, Baltimore beat them through the air, something the Giants could look to replicate if they find themselves in a positive game script.
For the Bengals, the key will be continuing their offensive efficiency while making just enough stops on defense. If Burrow can get into a rhythm early and Chase can succeed against the Giants’ secondary, Cincinnati should be able to outscore New York. However, if the Bengals’ defense continues to struggle, the Giants’ run game could control the pace.
On the Giants’ side, they’ll need their defense to stay disciplined and continue their strong play. If they can force the Bengals into turnovers or stop them in the red zone, they’ll have a chance to stay in the game. Offensively, they’ll need another big game from Tracy Jr. and a spark from Nabers in the passing game.
Our pick: This game should see both teams surpass 30 points, with Cincinnati winning by a close margin. Expect both Ja’Marr Chase and Malik Nabers to rack up 100+ receiving yards as the LSU products showcase their talents.
Zach has been a published sports writer since 2018 specializing in college football & basketball, MLB and NFL content for multiple publications.