Patriots vs Bengals: New England Patriots are heavy road favorites against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The game kicks off Sunday at 1:00 PM ET from Paycor Stadium. This NFL Week 12 matchup is heavily influenced by a major quarterback injury.According to ESPN, the Patriots are 7.5-point favorites. Cincinnati’s star quarterback, Joe Burrow, has been officially ruled out. This shifts the betting landscape dramatically for this AFC clash.

Patriots’ Stunning Turnaround Under Vrabel

New England’s current form is exceptional. They ride an eight-game winning streak into Cincinnati. This is the longest active streak in the entire league.First-year head coach Mike Vrabel has engineered a remarkable revival. The team’s 9-2 record is a stark contrast to recent seasons. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye is a leading candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year.His performance has been a key driver of their success. Maye has thrown for 20 touchdowns against only 5 interceptions. This efficiency makes the Patriots’ offense very difficult to stop.

Bengals Face Uphill Battle Without Franchise QB

Cincinnati’s season has been derailed by injury. Joe Burrow is sidelined with a toe injury suffered earlier this season. Veteran backup Joe Flacco will make another start in his place.The Bengals’ playoff hopes are fading with a 3-7 record. Their offense has struggled to maintain consistency without its leader. The team’s defense also ranks in the bottom half of the league.This creates a difficult scenario against a red-hot opponent. The point spread reflects the significant challenge the home team faces. An upset would require a nearly flawless performance.

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The Patriots vs Bengals matchup is defined by the absence of Joe Burrow. This gives New England a clear advantage on the road. Expect the Patriots to cover the spread and continue their winning ways.

Info at your fingertips

Why are the Patriots such big favorites?

The Patriots are on an eight-game winning streak. The Bengals are also missing their starting quarterback, Joe Burrow. This combination makes a New England victory very likely.

Who is starting at QB for the Bengals?

Veteran Joe Flacco will start for Cincinnati. He is filling in for the injured Joe Burrow. Flacco has previous starting experience from his time with other teams.

What is the Patriots’ current record?

New England holds a 9-2 record this season. This places them near the top of the AFC standings. Their only two losses came in the first three weeks of the season.

How has Drake Maye performed this year?

The rookie quarterback has been outstanding. He has thrown 20 touchdown passes. His low interception total shows great decision-making.

Where is the game being played?

The game will be held at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 PM Eastern Time. The forecast calls for clear weather conditions.

Trusted Sources

ESPN, CBS Sports, Associated Press, NFL Network