CINCINNATI BENGALS vs. DETROIT LIONS October 20 2013

Both the Bengals and the Lions head into week seven with 4-2 records as they get set to face-off Sunday in Detroit. The Lions are a slight favorite at home but the Bengals proved last week against the Bills that they are capable of winning on the road. This is a close game that could go either way depending a couple of key match-ups.

What the Bengals need to do to win

CINCINNATI BENGALS vs. DETROIT LIONS October 20 2013
Cincinnati needs to establish the run early so that they can control the time of possession and keep Matthew Stafford off the field. Last week they controlled the ball for over 42 minutes and will try to do the same on Sunday. The Bengals have one of the best offensive lines in football and running backs BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Giovani Bernard have combined for over 100 yards in each of the last two games. Detroit’s rushing defense is 29th in the league, giving up almost 125 yards per game, so moving the ball on the ground should not be an issue. Quarterback Andy Dalton has struggled for most of the season but he had a breakout game last week in Buffalo, throwing for over 300 yards and 3 TDs. The Lions simply don’t have anyone with the size to cover wide receiver A.J. Green. Green has only two 100-yard receiving games this year but he should get plenty of chances against the Lions. Marvin Jones has proven himself as a deep threat as well so it could be a long day for Detroit’s corners.

What the Lions need to do to win

Calvin Johnson grabs all the headlines but Detroit’s biggest passing threat Sunday could be rookie tight end Joseph Fauria. The Bengals have struggled all year to defend opposing tight ends and don’t have enough size to match-up against the 6′ 7″ Fauria. Even more difficult for the Bengals will be finding a way to stop running back Reggie Bush. Bush is explosive and capable of putting up 100 yards on the ground or in the air on any given Sunday. On the other side of the ball, the Lions must win the turnover battle. Dalton has already thrown 6 picks this season and Detroit’s physical pass rush is likely to force more on Sunday.

Final thoughts

The Bengals and Lions have a lot more in common this season than just their identical records. Both are two of the best in the NFL at blocking the pass and each team has one of the best defensive tackles in the league. On special teams Cincinnati and Detroit each have terrific kickers but both have less than stellar return units. With so much in common, this game is too close to call but the Lions should have a slight advantage playing at home.

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