Rams vs. Bengals: NFL Monday Night Football Picks & Prediction (Week 3)
For the second straight week, we get two Monday Night Football games. We'll start off the slate with the Eagles playing at the Buccaneers and finish the night with the Rams traveling to Cincinnati to take on the Bengals. Injuries are shaping up to play a big role in the outcome of both of these games. Let’s check out our top pick for Rams vs. Bengals.
NFL Monday Night Football Picks & Prediction
Los Angeles Ram at Cincinnati Bengals
The biggest news heading into this game is that QB Joe Burrow is questionable to play. It's no surprise though, as he's looked injured in both games this season. It seems like the books aren't sure if Burrow is playing or not. This line opened around -7 for the Bengals and if Burrow is ruled out it wouldn't shock me to see the Rams move to favorites. Frankly, I don't think it matters if Burrow plays or not.
QB Jake Browning is completely unproven so it's understandable that he would be an underdog against a QB Matthew Stafford-led Rams team. Even if Burrow plays can we really expect much better? Mind you it was two divisional games, but Burrow is averaging only 4.2 yards per attempt in the air. It's clear he isn't 100% after hurting his calf during the Summer and I like the Rams here even if he plays.
Stafford has come back strong from an injury last year that forced him to miss significant time in 2022. In Week 1 they blew out the Seahawks on the road and the following week they lost by only one score to the 49ers who have looked like world-beaters through three games. Stafford and WR Puka Nacua have been a pretty good substitute for Stafford and Cooper Kupp. Nacua already has 25 receptions through two games and against a Bengals defense that isn't playing to the level they did last year, I like him to continue his hot streak.
It'll take some nerve because if Burrow ends up playing this line may move back in Cincinnati's favor, but I doubt he does. Regardless, I love the backing Matthew Stafford and the Rams on Monday night.
Pick: Rams +3
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