How the Bengals Can Keep the Momentum Rolling Against the Cardinals
The Cincinnati Bengals showed some serious fight last week, going down to Miami and putting together one of their most complete performances of the season. It was the kind of win that reminded fans what this team is capable of when things click. Now, with a matchup against the Arizona Cardinals on deck, the Bengals have a chance to stack wins and finish the season on a high note.
Here’s what needs to happen for Cincinnati to come out on top this Sunday.
Keep the Offense in Rhythm
Last week, the Bengals offense finally looked like the unit fans expected to see all year. Joe Burrow may not be under center right now, but the playmakers around him showed up in a big way. The ground game found its footing, the passing attack was efficient and explosive, and the offensive line gave the quarterback time to operate.
That’s the formula they need to replicate against Arizona. Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are matchup nightmares when they get going, and keeping them involved early and often opens everything else up. The Bengals don’t need to reinvent the wheel-they just need to keep doing what worked in Miami: stay balanced, protect the football, and let their stars make plays.
Defense Needs to Keep Building
Let’s be honest-the Bengals defense has had its ups and downs this season. But last week, they made plays when it mattered most. They forced turnovers, got stops in key situations, and gave the offense a chance to control the game.
This week, they’ll need more of the same, especially with Joseph Ossai likely out again. That puts a spotlight on rookie edge rusher Myles Murphy, who flashed potential in Miami. This is a big opportunity for him to step up and show he can be a consistent disruptor off the edge.
Creating pressure and forcing mistakes will be crucial, but the real test may come in coverage-especially against one of the most productive tight ends in the league.
Containing Trey McBride
Trey McBride is the engine of Arizona’s passing game. He leads the team in receptions, yards, and touchdowns-and it’s not particularly close. He’s a big, athletic target who can attack the middle of the field and create mismatches against linebackers and safeties.
That’s been a problem area for the Bengals all season.
The good news? This is the perfect chance for some of Cincinnati’s young defenders to make a statement.
Rookie linebacker Barrett Carter was known for his coverage skills in college. He may not have the size advantage against McBride, but he has the speed and instincts to stay in the fight.
Demetrius Knight has shown flashes too, though he’s still searching for consistency.
And don’t forget about Jordan Battle. The rookie safety has been coming on strong, and this could be another step in his development.
These three-Carter, Knight, and Battle-could be foundational pieces for the Bengals defense going forward. A strong showing against a top-tier tight end like McBride would be a big confidence boost heading into the offseason.
Start Fast and Stay Ahead
One of the best things the Bengals did last week was take control early in the second half. They outscored the Dolphins 21-0 in the third quarter, despite kicking off to start the half. That kind of dominance after halftime can break a game wide open.
This week, a fast start-especially in the second half-could be just as important. Playing with a lead allows the Bengals to stay balanced on offense, keep Chase Brown involved in the run game, and force the Cardinals to become one-dimensional. That’s when the pass rush can pin its ears back and go to work.
And let’s be honest-Bengals fans could use a stress-free Sunday.
Finish Strong
It’s easy for teams to check out in late December when the playoffs are out of reach. But there’s value in finishing strong. Winning games at the end of the season can build momentum, establish culture, and give young players something to build on heading into next year.
There’s talent on this Bengals roster. There’s youth, there’s upside, and there’s plenty to be excited about.
But this week, it comes down to effort. If the Bengals come out motivated and focused, they’ve got more than enough firepower to take care of business against the Cardinals.
Cancun can wait.
This team still has something to prove.