The Cincinnati Bengals have witnessed one of the most turbulent seasons this year. They started the season with a series of losses before showcasing a phenomenal comeback and winning a series of games. However, misfortune struck them again, as the team has only been on the losing end for the last couple of weeks.
The Bengals improved their spot in the highly competitive AFC North due to their sudden winning streak, albeit they are now back to the last place with a poor 5-6 mark. The team is in a position where they cannot afford to lose more than just one game for the rest of the season. Meanwhile, the Cincy fans must rest assured for a while as wide receiver Tee Higgins will be seen on the field after recovering from injuries.
Is Tee Higgins returning from injury?
After suffering a hamstring injury, Tee Higgins was a limited participant in the Bengals’ practice ahead of the Week 10 match against the Houston Texans. The team head coach Zac Taylor confirmed the receiver sustained the injury in practice and later ruled him out against the Texans, leaving the role to rookie receiver Andrei Iosivas.
The WR missed their next two games against the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers. However, he will return to play Monday night against the Jacksonville Jaguars, per Bleacher Report.
The 24-year-old star’s numbers this season have seen a decline compared to previous years. With only 27 receptions for 328 yards and two touchdowns in seven games, 2023 could mark his least productive season in the NFL unless he produces significant figures in the remaining games.
The Cincy player sustained an injury in the first half of their match against the Tennessee Titans in Week 4 as well. While Tee Higgins’ return bolsters the Bengals’ offensive lineup, the team faces the absence of top cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt due to an ankle injury. Additionally, the Bengals have Jay Tufele listed as questionable due to illness and D’Ante Smith with a knee concern.
Bengals vs Jaguars match preview
The Bengals will face off against the Jaguars at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida in the Week 13 match. The game brims with potential playoff implications, as both teams seek to solidify their positions in the postseason race. The predicted under 38.5 points (-110 at FanDuel Sportsbook) sets the stage for an intense battle between these two NFL contenders.
The Bengals, reeling from the loss of star quarterback Joe Burrow for the remainder of the season after their clash with the Baltimore Ravens, face an uphill battle. Burrow’s absence casts a shadow over the team’s aspirations. This setback may force them to recalibrate their strategy, placing the spotlight on backup signal-caller Jake Browning.
Meanwhile, the Jaguars find themselves riding a wave of success, winning seven of their last eight games. Positioned as significant favorites at home, the Jags are firmly entrenched in the battle for the AFC’s top playoff seed. The Week 13 matchup favors the Jaguars’ offense against the Cincy defense that has struggled with conceding explosive plays throughout the season.
The Bengals’ vulnerability in both explosive passing and rushing plays could become a hiccup against a surging Jaguars offense. Led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence, the Jaguars have witnessed an evolution in their offensive capabilities, finding success through the explosive talents of Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk.
The Jaguars boast a solid record on the defensive side as well, conceding a mere 20 points per game. Facing a Burrow-less Bengals team compounded by injuries to key offensive weapons, they stand well-positioned to maintain their defensive dominance. With the ability to concentrate on containing wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and stifling running back Joe Mixon, the Jacksonville-based team aims to impose their defensive prowess and make life difficult for the Bengals’ backup QB.
What’s your take on the Jags vs. Cincy clash?
