The Baltimore Ravens have really rounded into form over the last few weeks and are looking like one of the best teams in the AFC right as the regular season is ending and the postseason begins. But if they want to not only secure their playoff spot but enter the postseason with some swagger, the Cincinnati Bengals are in their way.
That’s exactly what BetMGM believes will happen if you look at the odds for this week’s AFC North clash. BetMGM has the Ravens as 12.5-point favorites over the Bengals in Week 17.
There are plenty of good reasons to believe Baltimore can not only meet that spread but actually beat it this week. Not only have the Ravens owned the matchup recently, sweeping Cincinnati last year, but they beat them 27-3 earlier this season.
And though Baltimore’s injuries are worth noting this year, there are few injuries that can cripple a team quicker than losing a franchise quarterback. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow suffered a devastating knee injury in Week 11, and while Ryan Finley and Brandon Allen have performed well in his stead, there’s a pretty big drop in talent at the most important position on a football team. Adding to the problem is the fact the Ravens’ pass rush has dramatically improved over the last two weeks while the Bengals’ offensive line is still one of the worst in the NFL.
Considering Baltimore is fresh off blowout wins against the New York Giants and Jacksonville Jaguars, this matchup is shaping up to be a repeat. At least that’s what one oddsmaker is saying with such a massive spread.
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