Cincinnati Bengals vs Los Angeles Chargers: Sunday Night Football Preview and Predictions

The Cincinnati Bengals (4-6) are set to face off against the Los Angeles Chargers (6-3) in a crucial AFC matchup on Sunday Night Football, kicking off at 8:20 p.m. ET at SoFi Stadium. Both teams are vying for playoff positioning, with the Chargers surging under first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh and the Bengals fighting to keep their postseason hopes alive.

The Bengals enter this game following a gut-wrenching 35-34 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, their second defeat to their division rivals this season. In contrast, the Chargers have won three straight games, most recently outlasting the Tennessee Titans 27-17[2][4][6].

The latest odds favor the Chargers by 1.5 points at home, with a moneyline of -125. The total points line has risen to 48, indicating expectations of a high-scoring game. Professional bettors are leaning towards the Over, anticipating a shootout between star quarterbacks Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert[2][4][6].

Joe Burrow, who leads the NFL in passing yards (2,672) and touchdowns (24), will be key for the Bengals. His top target, Ja’Marr Chase, has been equally impressive, leading the league in catches (66), yards (981), and scores (10). However, the Bengals’ defense has been vulnerable, especially against the run, which could be exploited by the Chargers’ running backs J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards[2][4][6].

The Chargers, under Harbaugh, have excelled in the turnover battle with a +9 differential and have a strong defense that can clamp down on the run. Justin Herbert has been playing turnover-free football, which will be crucial against an opportunistic Bengals defense. The Chargers’ pass rush, featuring Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, will also pose a significant challenge to the Bengals’ offense[2][4][6].

Predictions vary, but many expect a high-scoring game. Some analysts believe the Bengals could pull off an upset, particularly if Ja’Marr Chase continues his strong form, despite uncertainties around the health of Tee Higgins and Orlando Brown Jr.[4][6].