Broncos vs. Final Score Predictions Bengals in Week 17

On December 28, 2024By Littum

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) runs for a first down in the second quarter of the NFL Week 16 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in downtown Cincinnati, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024. The Bengals led 17 -0 at halftime.

The Cincinnati Bengals get one last homestand and chance to prove they can beat quality opponents when they host the Denver Broncos in Week 17.

There, the Bengals can keep razor-thin playoff hopes alive while also hoping for Colts and Dolphins losses.

However, not an easy task. These Broncos are 9-6 and winners of four of their last five. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix looks the part of a long-term starter, completing 64.3 percent of his passes with 22 touchdowns against 11 interceptions.

A stingy Broncos defense is led by elite cornerback Patrick Surtain II, who back in 2021 held Ja’Marr Chase to a catch for three yards in a The Bengals win.

However, this current version of the Bengals doesn’t appear to be Super Bowl bound — each of their seven wins this year have come against teams currently sitting at a record of .500 or worse, and most have come against backup passers .

Blame it on a flawed defense that has only recently begun to improve because coordinator Lou Anarumo simplified things for the players. Even that’s a stretch, though – playing bad quarterbacks for Dallas, Tennessee and Cleveland teams tends to make defenses look good.

At least there is no blame of luck to throw at the offense. Joe Burrow is an MVP-level threat, completing 68.9 percent of his passes with 39 touchdowns against eight interceptions, never mind the best pocket navigation and play extension in the pros today.

Chase is also a Triple Crown threat, already sitting on 108 catches for 1,510 yards and 16 touchdowns. Tee Higgins looks set to play through his injuries, which should leave room for him to have another nice day.

Burrow’s line is also coming back to full strength. Against the NFL’s leading sack defense (51), left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. return, and rookie right tackle Amarius Mims will play through a broken hand.

When you look at a matchup this close, it often just comes down to the quarterbacks. And while they might not make the playoffs, it’s foolish to pick against Burrow right now.

Forecast: Bengals 30, Broncos 27

More Latest News!

Bengals Schedule: Are the Bengals Playing Today?

How to watch Broncos vs. Bengals Today: Time, TV Channel for Week 17

Bengals WR Tee Higgins injury update provided by NFL Insider

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Broncos vs. Final Score Predictions Bengals in Week 17