Bengals continue to play waiting game with Ja'Marr Chase
It's wild to say this, but the Cincinnati Bengals (5-3) have a big matchup against the Houston Texans (4-4) in Week 10, so they're going to need all hands on deck.It already looks like star wideout Tee Higgins, will miss this game. That's obviously a big deal for a surging Joe Burrow and co., but […]
It's wild to say this, but the Cincinnati Bengals (5-3) have a big matchup against the Houston Texans (4-4) in Week 10, so they're going to need all hands on deck.
It already looks like star wideout Tee Higgins, will miss this game. That's obviously a big deal for a surging Joe Burrow and co., but the team could really be dealt a blow in the absence of another star wideout, Ja'Marr Chase.
Per ESPN'S Jeremy Fowler, Chase will go through a morning workout that determines whether or not he plays against the Texans. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport provided more specifics, saying there's a "50/50 chance" Chase plays and that the Bengals will "keep the door open until game-time". The two-time Pro Bowler has been dealing with a back injury he suffered against the Buffalo Bills in Week 9.
Bengals still have Joe Burrow, but having Ja'Marr Chase would be huge
Currently, the Bengals passing attack is not in good shape heading into this game.
Make no mistake, the potential losses of both Higgins and Chase are big deals. Especially when considering the Texans get former top-5 pick, CB Derek Stingley, back after an IR stint.
DeMeco Ryans' defense hasn't been flawless, by any means. Case in point: It gave up 37-points to a Tampa Bay Buccaneers offense that was averaging a mere 17.3 points per game heading into last week's matchup. Still, Ryans is one of the best defensive minds in the NFL and he should have a solid game plan for the Bengals offense.
Therefore, an offense with no Chase nor Higgins could easily struggle this week. Fortunately, Burrow looks like his usual MVP self as he's finally healthy after dealing with that calf injury.
That in itself is enough to propel the Bengals to a victory, although it won't be easy. And don't count out C.J. Stroud and co. – they can put points on the board and the rookie QB has just one interception on the season. And the Texans attempt the 12th-most passes at 35.0 attempts per game.
An offensive shootout would certainly play in the Bengals' favor, but this game will likely be a low-scoring, defensive contest, ultimately. Especially if Chase doesn't play.
