Two AFC teams coming off massive overtime wins with second-string QBs will clash in Cincinnati as Gardner Minshew and the Colts visit Jake Browning and the Bengals. Indianapolis boasts a surprising 7-5 record and comes in as a slight road favorite, while Cincy has crawled back to a .500 record at 6-6.
A total of just over 40 with two backup quarterbacks doesn’t usually garner attention on a loaded Week 14 NFL slate. Still, many football fans will be tuned in to see if these impressive 27-year-olds can continue their strong bids to be leaders of a future NFL offense.
Colts vs Bengals Odds
NFL odds used for this Indianapolis vs Cincinnati preview were found at DraftKings Sportsbook and are current as of December 5 at 1:00 pm EST.
- Moneyline: Colts (-115) • Bengals (-105)
- Spread: Colts -1 (-110) • Bengals +1 (-110)
- Total Points: Over 40.5 (-110) • Under 40.5 (-110)
- Implied Score: Colts 21, Bengals 20
Colts vs Bengals Predictions
Score Pick: Bengals 27, Colts 24
Two big takeaways from Week 13 brought me to this score conclusion: First, we have two capable quarterbacks, and they are leading offenses with plenty of weapons to help them move the ball. Secondly, both defenses have shown weaknesses of late.
The Bengals have been susceptible on defense all year, ranking 27th in DVOA. The Colts are more middle-of-the-pack, but don’t be surprised if they underperform for the second week in a row while away from Lucas Oil Stadium.
Ultimately, it should be Cincinnati’s balanced offensive attack from Joe Mixon and three very strong receivers, an advantage in special teams, and a rejuvenated crowd behind Browning and company that gets the job done for the Bengals.
Minshew has shown the ability to stay in games, especially shoot-outs, and Zack Moss is no slouch carrying the rock. But it makes too much sense to take a point with the underdog at home.
This crazy AFC playoff picture will make more sense when both teams are 7-6.
Colts vs Bengals Best Bets & Props
Over 40.5 (-110)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 2 units
The NFL bet of the day is an over bet that stood out to me right away. Both offenses showed they could get along just fine without their franchise QBs at the helm. Both defenses showed they were vulnerable to both the pass and the run.
There were fireworks for both teams in Week 13, so it’s fair to expect both to reach 20 points again in this matchup. When the numbers align with the eye test, it’s time to load up a two-unit play.
Bengals +1 (-110)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 unit
The Bengals should be able to succeed on the ground, just as Tennessee did against Indy in Week 13, making Browning’s life much easier.
A pumped-up crowd with new life, one of the best wide receiver trios in the league, and edges in minor categories like special teams and coaching experience lead me back to Cincinnati every time. I’ll take “Who Dey” in a one-possession game.
Field Goals Made Over 3.5 (-110)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 unit
Both teams have been able to make their way into the red zone efficiently of late, and it makes sense when we consider the fast pace with which they play and their big-play abilities.
With a few extra possessions projected in this one and a tight game down the stretch, we’ll bank on Evan McPherson and Matt Gay to come through for four or more field goals combined.
Colts vs Bengals Same Game Parlay
Colts vs Bengals SGP (+204)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 unit
- Bengals Over 16.5 (-205)
- Colts Over 16.5 (-218)
- Bengals +3.5 (-175)
My analysis above about the pace of the game and how much success each offense should have against vulnerable defense leads us directly to the Team Totals over 16.5 for both teams. We’re looking for at least two TDs and a field goal from each offense.
As for the spread, the numbers suggest we get a back-and-forth, one-possession contest. The Bengals catching a field goal plus the hook is a good way to get this SGP up over +200.
Risk one unit to win two units, and root for some points with the home team keeping it close in the end!
