The Cincinnati Bengals (4-8) are set to face the Dallas Cowboys (7-5) on Monday Night Football, December 9, 2024, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Bengals are aiming to rebound from a recent 24-19 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game where their defense allowed 375 total yards and failed to generate a turnover. Offensively, quarterback Joe Burrow has been a bright spot, completing 68.5% of his passes for 3,200 yards and 22 touchdowns this season. However, the team has struggled with consistency, particularly in the running game, averaging just 95.3 rushing yards per game. Defensively, Cincinnati has allowed 24.7 points per game, ranking 22nd in the league, and has recorded only 18 sacks, indicating a need for increased pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
The Cowboys, meanwhile, are riding a two-game winning streak, including a recent 27-20 victory over the New York Giants. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush has stepped in admirably for the injured Dak Prescott, leading the team with a passer rating of 95.4 over the past two games. The defense has been bolstered by the return of linebacker Micah Parsons, who recorded two sacks and a forced fumble against the Giants. Additionally, rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been a key contributor, leading the team with 70 receptions for 829 yards and four touchdowns. With five games remaining, Smith-Njigba is on pace to challenge the franchise’s single-season reception record. The Cowboys’ defense has been opportunistic, forcing 20 turnovers this season, which could pose challenges for a Bengals offense that has struggled with ball security.
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