Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Giants - October 13, 2024

As I gear up for the matchup this Sunday between the Cincinnati Bengals and the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium, the excitement for this game is palpable. With the Bengals coming in as -4.5 point favorites, it’s clear that oddsmakers are banking on them to turn things around after a rocky start to their season. Both teams are hungry for a victory, but I believe the Bengals are primed for a win in this showdown.

Looking at the Giants’ recent performance, their last outing was a confidence-boosting 29-20 win against the Seahawks, where they managed to cover the spread as +7-point underdogs. Despite this, their statistical output leaves a lot to be desired. Averaging only 17.8 points per game and struggling to establish a passing game with just 227.6 yards per outing, the Giants have deficiencies that could be exposed by a Bengals team desperate for redemption.

On the other hand, Cincinnati has shown flashes of potential, averaging 28 points per game, underlined by an impressive 72.1% completion percentage in their passing game. The Bengals’ ability to stretch the field with 274 pass yards per game makes them a serious threat, though they have faced inconsistency. After a high-scoring loss to the Ravens where they were edged out 41-38, their defensive vulnerabilities, particularly their rush defense, have been glaring—allowing them to fall to a disappointing 1-4 record.

What I think we will witness this Sunday is a Bengals offense that finds its groove. Based on the statistics, they should exploit the Giants’ defensive weaknesses, effectively utilizing their aerial attack to keep the chains moving. With an ability to score quickly and efficiently, I foresee Cincinnati scoring at least in the mid-30s. The Giants’ defense, despite some solid performances, has proven susceptible to more dynamic offenses, which Cincinnati undoubtedly has.

I do foresee Cincinnati being able to cover the spread in this matchup. As they have struggled early in the season, they will be looking to establish themselves against a Giants team that may not have the firepower to keep up. The Bengals need this victory to regain some semblance of momentum—and given their offensive output thus far, I believe they will rise to the occasion.

When evaluating the game’s Over/Under, my gut feeling is that it will lean under the total set at 45. With the Giants averaging only 17.8 points and the Bengals’ susceptibility to letting games get out of hand, I believe the total points will fall below expectations, especially if the Bengals manage to control the game’s pace.

In summary, I predict a win for the Cincinnati Bengals over the New York Giants, with Cincinnati covering the spread, but the game staying under the total points. The Bengals have the tools to dominate, and Sunday could just mark their return to form.