Snow, Stakes, and a Stacked Injury Report: Bengals vs. Bills Shaping Up to Be a Gritty AFC Clash
Sunday in Orchard Park is shaping up to be a classic - snow in the forecast, playoff implications on the line, and two AFC contenders ready to battle. The Cincinnati Bengals head north to face the Buffalo Bills in a game that could have serious postseason consequences.
For the Bengals, it’s about survival and staying in the hunt. For the Bills, it’s about proving they can weather both the elements and adversity.
Let’s break down where both teams stand heading into this heavyweight showdown - starting with the injury report, which is already playing a major role in how this one might unfold.
Bengals Get a Key Weapon Back, But Lose a Pass-Rusher
Cincinnati got a much-needed boost on the offensive side of the ball. Wide receiver Tee Higgins, who suffered a concussion in Week 12 against the Patriots, has cleared protocol and is expected to suit up.
That’s big. Higgins missed last week’s loss to Baltimore, and his return gives Joe Burrow another top-tier target - especially crucial in what could be a weather-affected game where short, physical routes matter.
But while the offense gets a lift, the defense takes a hit. Star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson (hip/pelvis) is officially out.
That’s not a surprise, but it’s still a significant blow. Hendrickson has been a disruptive force all season, and without him, the Bengals will need young pass-rushers like Myles Murphy and Joseph Ossai to step up.
This is one of those “prove-it” moments for Cincinnati’s depth on the defensive line.
Linebacker Shaka Heyward (fibula) is listed as doubtful, which further tests the Bengals’ defensive rotation. Against a Bills offense that can still move the ball in chunks, depth and discipline will be critical.
Bills Defense Dealing with the Injury Bug
Buffalo isn’t coming in at full strength either - especially on the defensive side of the ball. The good news?
Left tackle Dion Dawkins has cleared concussion protocol and is expected to start. That’s a huge stabilizing presence for a Bills offensive line that will need to keep Josh Allen upright, particularly if the snow starts falling and footing becomes an issue.
On the other side of the ball, things are murkier. Tight end Dalton Kincaid (hamstring/knee) was limited in practice but is trending toward playing. His presence would give Allen a reliable option over the middle - something that could be key in a game where deep shots may be limited by weather.
The bigger concern for Buffalo is on defense. Defensive end Joey Bosa (wrist/hamstring) and linebacker Terrel Bernard (elbow) are both out.
That’s a gut punch for a unit already dealing with multiple injuries this season. Bosa’s absence removes a premier pass-rushing threat, while Bernard’s loss weakens the second level - especially in coverage and run fits.
Defensive end A.J. Epenesa (foot) missed some practice time this week, but head coach Sean McDermott expects him to play. If he’s able to go, his presence becomes even more important with Bosa sidelined.
Wide receiver Joshua Palmer (knee/ankle) is listed as doubtful, further thinning Buffalo’s options in the passing game.
Final Thoughts
This one’s going to be a grind. With snow in the forecast and both teams dealing with key injuries, expect a physical, old-school type of game.
The Bengals are looking to keep their postseason hopes alive and extend Joe Burrow’s unbeaten streak against Josh Allen. The Bills, meanwhile, are trying to hold serve at home and prove they can still be a force in the AFC despite a battered defense.
Health will be a factor. Depth will be tested.
And in the cold, swirling winds of Orchard Park, the margin for error will be razor-thin. Buckle up - this one’s got all the makings of a December classic.