Cincinnati Bengals: 3 bold predictions for Week 11 vs. Raiders
By Riley Thomas
2. Bengals’ defense holds Vegas to 14 points or less
The Cincinnati defense is certainly part of the problem in recent losses. Prior to giving up 34 and 41 to the Jets and Browns, the stripes’ defense was one of the most impressive units in the league.
It feels like the defense —which had been consistent before the Jets game— is the largest concern right now. That defensive unit was a huge reason for the Bengals starting 5-2 this season. A playoff berth will be extremely hard to achieve if this defense continues to play poorly.
The Raiders’ offense has struggled over the last two weeks, putting up a meager 16 and 14 points against decent to poor defenses (the Giants and Chiefs). Still, Las Vegas is averaging over 380 yards per game, which ranks eighth.
Derek Carr has been good this season and Josh Jacobs has found his footing and we all know how dangerous the All-Pro tight end Darren Waller is. This Raiders offense is still no cakewalk, but Cincy’s defense should be ready after the BYE week.
There is still talent all over the Cincinnati defense, it is time to turn it around. Look for big days from Chidobe Awuzie, Vonn Bell, and Trey Hendrickson.
The Bengal defense can reestablish itself as a top 10 defense this Sunday by holding the Raiders to 14 points or less.