NFL Picks: Week 3 Rams vs Bengals

Share News

As the NFL plunges deeper into its season, week 3 promises a tantalizing encounter between the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals at the illustrious Paycor Stadium. For avid football enthusiasts and bettors alike, this game is shaping up to be a clash of grit, determination, and strategic prowess.

BUSR NFL Lines

Spread: Rams +2 (-110), Bengals -2 (-110) 

Moneyline: Rams +105, Bengals -128 (-110) 

Total: O 43.5 (-110), U 43.5 (-110) 

Rams: Roaring or Stumbling?

The Rams, though boasting a litany of talents, find themselves in a precarious situation. Their desire for a second road win is palpable, especially as they aim to rise above their .500 record. Unfortunately, recent history has not been kind to them, with a string of 7 losses in their last 8 games, making every win now crucial. 

Matthew Stafford, the team’s experienced quarterback, has showcased a completion rate of 62.4 percent, accumulating 641 yards in the process. However, the 1 touchdown against 2 interceptions reflects a need for better decision-making. The duo of Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell have been instrumental on the receiving front, accumulating an impressive 462 yards on 38 catches. Tyler Higbee, with his 6 receptions, cannot be overlooked either.

The Rams’ running game has somewhat underperformed, averaging just 90.5 yards per game. Kyren Williams, despite this average showing, has been a beacon of hope, charging forward with 104 yards and notching 3 touchdowns. On the defense front, the Rams have been allowing an average of 21.5 points and 272.5 yards per game. Ernest Jones stands out, leading the team with 19 tackles, while Byron Young’s 1.5 sacks reflect his defensive prowess. Derion Kendrick’s lone pass deflection adds another layer to the Rams’ defense.

Bengals: Hungry for a Win

Cincinnati’s tale this season has been one of longing. The elusive first win remains out of grasp, and the haunting memories of their 2019 season, where they managed only 2 wins, loom large. Joe Burrow, the team’s young and promising quarterback, is completing 56.9 percent of his passes, accumulating 304 yards. Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, the dynamic receiving duo, have combined for 159 yards and have managed 2 touchdowns. Tyler Boyd, with his 8 receptions, further bolsters the Bengals’ offensive game.

The Bengals’ running game has struggled, mustering an average of 70.5 yards per game. Joe Mixon, however, has been a silver lining, leading the charge with 115 yards from 26 carries. Defensively, there’s room for improvement as they’ve been allowing 25.5 points and 382.5 yards per game. Germaine Pratt, with 20 tackles and a sack, has been the standout, with Dax Hill’s interception adding to the defense’s credentials.

Prediction

Predicting the outcome of this game isn’t straightforward. Backing the Rams might not be the most popular choice given their recent form. However, the Bengals, with their offensive struggles and the potential absence of Joe Burrow due to a calf injury, seem even more unstable. The prospective replacement for Burrow, Jake Browning, despite being 27, has just one career NFL pass attempt. That’s hardly reassuring.

Looking back, the Rams did manage to challenge the 49ers last week. Moreover, with their commendable fifth-best pass defense in the first two weeks, they seem more reliable, at least on paper. The Bengals’ current quarterback situation further tilts the balance in favor of the Rams.

In conclusion, given the present circumstances and team forms, leaning towards the Rams seems the more pragmatic choice. While the Bengals have their strengths and potential, their current uncertainties, especially regarding their quarterback, make them a risky bet. So, for those looking to make a wager or simply predicting the outcome, the Rams covering the +2 spread on BUSR NFL Odds seems like the logical choice.