Bengals vs. Ravens Picks, Odds, & NFL Predictions
September 5, 2008
Sunday Sept. 7th, the Cincinnati Bengals look to get their 2008 season started off right when they head division rival, the Baltimore Ravens. The Bengals are looking to finally live up to their potential and become a playoff team every year, while the Ravens hope rookie quarterback Joe Flacco can step in and lead this team to a surprise season. As it stands now the Begals are 2 point favorites in this one, but with the odds always changing, we suggest keeping a close eye on our live NFL lines page.
Both these teams had a disappointing season in 2007, as the Bengals really struggled to get it going starting the season 0-5, before turning it up a notch to finish 7-9. The Ravens on the other hand struggled pretty much from start to finish going 5-11. Lets take a look at the changes these two teams made over the last off season.
The Bengals come in with what should be one of the better offenses in the NFL, as they have an elite quarterback in Carson Palmer, and two of the best wide receivers in the NFL in Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. The team did get rid of running back Rudi Johnson in hopes that Chris Perry or Kenny Watson are ready to step in and shine. The real question surrounding this unit, is how is this team going to adjust to the team bringing back receiver Chris Henry. This unit has to improve or it could be another tough year in Cincinnati. Bet Bengals -2 at JustBet.com
The Ravens really struggled to get anything going on this side of the ball, as they were unable to find an answer at quarterback. So here comes rookie Joe Flacco to bring this team back to glory. Flacco doesn’t have a lot to work with at the wide receiver position, but they do have a pretty solid player at tight end in Todd Heap. In the running game Willis McGahee will likely be asked to put up another 1,000 yard season and keep the offense moving. If this unit can improve the defense still has some life in it to carry them to a solid season. Bet Ravens +2 at JustBet.com
The Bengals offense doesn’t have such the luxury, as their defense can really struggle to stop other teams. This could be because the defensive line isn’t much to speak of, but they do get great play out of captain John Thornton. At linebacker things don’t get too much better, but the future looks good with rookie Keith Rivers, who is expected to come in and start right away. In the secondary things get better with the play of their young corners Jonathan Joseph and Leon Hall. They also have high hopes for safety Marvin White, who is expected to step in and take over for the departed Madieu Williams.
Predicted Score:
Bengals 20
Ravens 18
If you want to get some expert advice on the games this weekend, take a look at what professional handicapper Jason Lowry has to offer. If you want to get a little more on the game this weekend, take a good look at these Bengals Ravens predictions.
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