Cincinnati Bengals 2014 Season Preview: Week 7 at Indianapolis Colts
Cincinnati Bengals Strengths: They have had recent success against the Colts beating them in the past 2 regular season meeting. The defense has been the core of the recent success and keeping them in a lot of games late. The offense with upgrades in the backfield and on the line should test this Colts defensive front and open up the passing game late.
Indianapolis Colts Strengths: The offense has a lot of upsides with a great young quarterback. Andrew Luck will be the key to this game and offensive production. A great game from him could put a W in the results column.
Cincinnati Bengals Weakness: The offense will be the uncertain in every game this season. If they perform, this game could get ugly for the Colts defense. If they struggle, the Colts could have a great opportunity for a quality win.
Cincinnati Bengals Keys to the Game: The defense must shut down Andrew Luck early and force the Colts to the run game, where they ranked 21st last year. The offensive side of the ball must perform and get to this Colts defense. Every point will be key since last year resulted in 70 points.
Indianapolis Colts Keys to the Game: The Colts defense must shut down the offense and get turnovers. Field position is key along with points so setting up the offense in scoring territory could help push them past this defense and get what they need to win.
Prediction: This feels like it is an evenly matched game from a Quarterback stand point with maybe a slight edge to Luck at home with a year under his belt. After last year, unless the Cincinnati defense slides or a huge improvement happens on the defensive side of the ball for the Colts, Cincinnati gets the edge in this game. Cincinnati wins 31-21 to improve to 4-2 on the season.