Indianapolis Colts (7-5) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (6-6)
The Indianapolis Colts will visit the Cincinnati Bengals for this Week 14 AFC matchup. Fans and bettors alike are keenly eyeing this encounter, with many searching for that NFL winning pick in a game filled with potential and unpredictability. This AFC showdown has the makings of a shootout. Both sides can rack up points quickly, with talented playmakers on the outside. Expect big numbers and late drama as these bitter rivals fight for postseason position.
Led by veteran Gardner Minshew, the Indianapolis Colts have found their groove on offense. Minshew is distributing the ball well, with top target WR Michael Pittman Jr. putting up 889 receiving yards already. Pair that with the two-headed rushing monster of Jonathan Taylor and Zack Moss, and Indianapolis poses problems for any defense.
The Cincinnati Bengals meanwhile are fired up after snapping a two-game skid last week. Joe Burrow was masterful, exploiting a vulnerable Chiefs’ secondary for 286 yards and 2 TDs. But Cincy’s defense remains inconsistent, an issue they cannot afford with the red-hot Colts coming to town.
Indianapolis Colts vs. Cincinnati Bengals Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Paycor Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Gardner Minshew QB vs. Joe Burrow QB
For the Colts, QB Gardner Minshew has brought stability under center. While not flashy, he protects the football and keeps the chains moving. Minshew is completing 63% of his throws, with 10 TDs and 7 INTs. He spreads the ball around well too, evidenced by four Colts pass-catchers having 25+ receptions already. Minshew’s accuracy and decision making will be vital come playoff time.
Meanwhile, Joe Burrow remains the conductor of the Bengals’ lethal passing game. Burrow is hitting on 67% of passes, while averaging nearly 250 yards per contest. His 15 TDs highlight his scoring punch, with top targets WR Ja’Marr Chase and TE Hayden Hurst benefiting greatly. Burrow has also curbed mistakes, with just 6 INTs after being picked off 14 times last year. He gives Cincy a chance every week with his precise throws.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Indianapolis Colts -130, Total Odds: 40
The betting odds slightly favor the Colts, with a -130 moneyline and a very narrow spread, indicating a closely contested battle. The total over/under set at 40 points suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring game. Bettors should consider these odds carefully, as the matchup presents a tight competition with both teams having strengths that could sway the game.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
The Colts enter this game with outstanding recent form against Cincinnati, winning 10 of their previous 14 matchups. They are also rolling right now, prevailing in four straight while covering in five of their last six overall. Stats also back Indianapolis, as they are 5-1 SU on the road and have an OVER trend of 13-5 in their past 18 games. Everything points to the Colts carrying momentum into this showdown.
Cincinnati Bengals Betting Trends
Cincy has enjoyed home comforts when hosting Indianapolis, with the OVER 5-1 the last five meetings in Ohio. The Bengals also typically play tight contests, evidenced by the total going OVER in four of their past six games. However, Cincinnati has struggled versus AFC foes of late, going just 2-7 ATS in its last nine matchups against conference rivals.
Indianapolis Colts vs. Cincinnati Bengals 12/10/23 Betting Picks
As we approach this keenly anticipated clash, the Indianapolis Colts appear to have a slight edge, especially considering their recent ATS record and their proficiency in both rushing and receiving. However, the Bengals, led by Joe Burrow’s dynamic passing, cannot be underestimated, especially at home.
Given the trends and statistics, the better pick seems to be leaning slightly towards the Colts, primarily due to their balanced offense and strong recent ATS performance. Prop bets on individual player performances, like Zack Moss’s rushing yards or Michael Pittman Jr.’s receptions, might offer value. The total going OVER seems like a compelling option, given both teams’ recent trends.
For top live betting opportunities, this game presents numerous intriguing moments, especially in the second half when the strategies of both teams will be more apparent.
