AFC Championship Bet | By Point Train

AFC Champions Longshot: Cincinnati Bengals +900 – By Point Train Consulting

Similar to our NFC prediction about the Falcons, scheduling plays a crucial role in our longshot pick for the AFC Champion, the Cincinnati Bengals. According to our metrics, the Bengals will face the 5th easiest schedule this season, a stark contrast to the tough schedule they had last year. Despite QB Joe Burrow being less than 100% for much of the season, the Bengals still managed to secure a 9-8 SU record. In 2023, they ranked 11th in total DVOA with an average point differential of -1.1 PPG.

We believe this season’s Bengals could resemble the 2022 team that went 12-4 SU in the regular season and narrowly lost to the Chiefs 20-23 in the AFC Championship game. That year, the Bengals were 4th in offensive DVOA and 7th in defensive DVOA. In today’s NFL, where offense reigns supreme, the Bengals have the firepower to challenge the Chiefs for the AFC title. With QB Burrow back from injury and two top-tier WRs in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, the Bengals’ offense is a formidable force. Zack Moss, who rushed for 794 yards with the Colts last season, will take charge in the backfield.

While the Bengals’ defense regressed in 2023, much of that can be attributed to their tough schedule, with 11 of their 17 games against teams in the top half of the league in scoring. Despite this, they allowed just 22.6 PPG, below the combined average of 25.1 PPG of the league’s top 15 teams. Cincinnati made a few significant improvements on the defensive side of the football including a revamped secondary and should be a top 13 unit in 2024.

The Bengals’ primary challenge in winning the AFC North will be the Ravens, who won 13 games last season under John Harbaugh. However, within the division, both the Browns and Steelers have significant quarterback concerns and may struggle to maintain winning records. While the Chiefs, Bills, and Dolphins are serious contenders, the Bengals can match their offensive prowess if Burrow stays healthy. The Bengals have a legitimate shot at representing the AFC in the Super Bowl.