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Stymietee
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Now that the preseason is over, and yes, I'm including the first two games of the season as a part of that, let's realize that, In a bit of irony, the Cincinnati Bengals and Washington Commanders come into this third game as improving teams from game one to game two. After using a limited activity approach to the preseason. Neither allows their starters to play much and both appear to be on track, after two regular season games; finding more cohesive play early in the season, where other more daring teams who play their regulars get it during the preseason. While this approach is not new to the Bengals, they’ve begun the last few seasons 0-2 after withholding their starters, the Commanders, after looking particularly horrific in game one against the Buccaneers (Essentially, Preseason game 1 with starters) showed marked improvement against the Giants (Preseason game #2) posting an overall 1-1 seasonal record. Historically, this approach seems to have worked well for Bengals head man Zac Taylor who has posted an impressive 3-1-1 record in game three since becoming head coach in 2019. For Dan Quinn, this approach garnered middling results in his first stint as a head coach (Atlanta 2015-2020) with a game-three record of 3-3 during that time.
Knowing this history, the odds makers have appointed the Bengals as 7.5-point favorites as I post this. Still, I believe they are reasonably dismissing the ascendency of the Washington-based team, but I will not be as dismissive. These teams have faced off 11 times with the record at 5-5-1. The most recent meeting was Nov. 22, 2020, and Washington covered as 1.5-point favorites at home 20-9. This bit of history coupled with eerily similar approaches to the regular season and despite the obvious talent differences, points to a game where the odds makers miss and it becomes a closer, much more competitive game than they’re predicting.
Here's what they're saying...
They're all wrong and here's how I visualize the game playing out:
On Monday night, September 23, 2024, the Washington Commanders pulled off a thrilling victory against the Cincinnati Bengals. The game was a nail-biter from start to finish, with both teams showcasing their strengths.
The Commanders’ rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels, had a standout performance, completing 25 of 32 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns. His poise under pressure was evident, especially during a crucial fourth-quarter drive that put Washington ahead. Running back Brian Robinson Jr. also played a pivotal role, rushing for 120 yards and a touchdown, breaking through the Bengals’ defense with ease.
Despite Burrow’s 310 yards and three touchdowns, the Bengals couldn’t overcome the Commanders’ balanced attack and improving defensive effort. The final score 31-27 in favor of Washington, marking a significant win for the Commanders as they continue their promising season.
They've had their say, I've had mine, now what do you predict?... You know the drill! Good luck!
1. Who wins this game?
2. Final score?
3. Player(s) of the game?
4. Memorial moment, event, or play, that will have everyone talking on Monday night and Tuesday morning?
