Rams vs Bengals Preview: Expert Picks Breakdown After Burrow’s Injury

Lines Quickly Tighten Amidst Reports of Burrow’s Status

The latest news on Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is not great, hence why the NFL odds on the Rams-Bengals game tightened. It’s gone from a 6.5-point difference to just 1.5 now in favor of Cincinnati. The total has also dropped from 46.5 to 43. And while it is not an ideal line now, Los Angeles is the right play here as we explore in this Rams vs Bengals preview.

Rams Still Firing Despite Kupp-Less Roster

Even without star receiver Cooper Kupp, the Rams can put points on the board. Look to Sean McVay to find ways to keep L.A. rolling with Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell emerging at receiver. Now, if only Los Angeles could get the ground game going. We like for this team to do so per our Rams vs Bengals preview.

The Rams appear set to trade away disgruntled running back Cam Akers. He was scratched in Sunday’s loss to San Francisco.

“I feel very good about the clarity that was provided to him on Friday and Saturday, both through he and [agent] David Mulugheta,” McVay told ESPN. “And that’s unfortunate, but I feel like it was very clear in regards to our dialogue.”

Kyren Williams had nifty NFL player stats in the loss. He scored twice and had 100 yards from scrimmage. He’s the type of back who can feature nicely under McVay’s complex scheme. And when he gets going, Los Angeles could be a problem to deal with.

This team went 12-5 and won the Super Bowl despite having a subpar rushing game in 2021. But the team had the best offense the last time the Rams had a prolific running back, Todd Gurley, in 2017 and 2018. As such, it could be worth betting the total to go over 43 if Williams proves to be even 50% of what Gurley was in these years.

The Rams went over their totals in seven of their eight road games during McVay’s first season with Gurley. Williams was a relative unknown heading into the last game. The public has not yet cued in, which makes betting against it potentially lucrative here.

Bengals Lose Stripes in Wake of Quarterback Issue

As for Cincinnati, we have no choice but to fade this team here on the Rams vs Bengals preview. There is a no-win situation for Cincinnati or its backers here, given the questions at quarterback. For one, a hobbled Burrow could prove detrimental both for this game and the long-term – calf injuries may lead to more serious injuries (see Aaron Rodgers this season).

The one-legged Burrow will not be able to threaten with the deep ball or scramble. That’s been mainly why the Bengals’ offense has scored the third-fewest points and the fewest yards. Burrow has 304 yards through two games and a 70.4 passer rating.

If the team puts in Jake Browning, the backup may be slightly better. But will they still be good enough to beat the Rams with Matthew Stafford? The Bengals have better weapons for Browning, and there isn’t much tape on him. This could help Cincinnati light up Los Angeles and it could translate to a better offense – at least via the NFL team stats.

Still, it may not lead to a win. With the game on the line, we’d take the McVay and the Super Bowl champions over Zac Taylor and a backup with minimal professional experience. Since Cincy is 0-2 on the NFL standings, that also puts more pressure on them. And that’s more material for fading.

The Pick is In…

We like a few bets on this football game. An obvious one is the total. While the public zigs, we’re zagging. There is enough offense here to go over the 43 points. Both teams will hit the 20-point mark and then some. But the bet we like most is the underdog shot on the Rams. Whether it’s the injured Burrow or Browning, the Rams will be the predators here.

For NFL betting news, odds analysis, and more, visit Point Spreads Sports Magazine.

Can’t get enough? Here’s more!

• Chargers vs Vikings Odds: This Game Of Winless Teams Is Too Close to Call
• Giants vs 49ers Betting Odds: All Eyes Turn to Saquon Barkley
• D’Andre Swift Player Stats: The Eagle Got It Done on The Ground
• NFL Bad Beat of the Week: Rams Get the Last Laugh as 49ers Bettors Weep
• MNF: New Orleans Saints vs Carolina Panthers Betting Preview