Bengals vs. Chargers: 5 Must-Know Facts Ahead of Sunday’s Primetime Showdown

Bengals vs. Chargers: Key Points to Know for Sunday Night’s Primetime Game

CINCINNATI — The playoff race in the AFC remains wide open, but the Cincinnati Bengals are beginning to feel the pressure as their margin for error grows thinner with each loss. Their playoff hopes hinge on performances like the one they’ll need in Sunday’s primetime matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, who sit at 6-3 on the season. Currently ranked ninth in the AFC, the Bengals find themselves in a precarious position, with Denver (5-5) just ahead of them holding the final playoff spot. With the season nearing the home stretch, every game is critical, and Sunday’s contest against the Chargers represents another pivotal moment for Cincinnati. The game will also showcase a compelling showdown between two quarterbacks from the highly-anticipated 2020 draft class: Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert.

Here are five important storylines heading into Sunday’s game:

1. No Room for Mistakes

The Bengals are hoping to replicate the late-season surge they experienced in 2021, when they won five of their final seven games to claim the AFC North title and ultimately make a Super Bowl appearance. However, to have any hope of a similar run this year, they must avoid further setbacks. At 4-6, Cincinnati can ill afford another loss, as falling to 4-7 would likely eliminate any real shot at postseason contention. The Bengals are looking to start their late-season push at SoFi Stadium, the site of their Super Bowl LVI appearance, and cornerback Mike Hilton emphasized the importance of this game. “This next one is important. We’re sitting at 4-6, and if we lose on Sunday, it’s basically over for the postseason. But we believe in each other, and we’re still in this. We’ve just got to take care of business on Sunday and take it from there.”

2. How Strong Is the Chargers Defense?

Los Angeles has boasted one of the top defenses in the league this season, allowing an impressive 13.1 points per game—the best in the NFL. However, much of this success has come against teams with losing records, including matchups against struggling offenses like the Browns, Titans, Panthers, and Raiders. Despite their defensive ranking, the Chargers’ true test will come against the high-powered Bengals offense. Cincinnati ranks sixth in scoring, with Joe Burrow leading the league in passing yards (2,672) and touchdowns (24). The Chargers’ defense has been effective, with 31 sacks (tied for fourth) and 13 takeaways (11th in the league). Cornerback Elijah Molden leads the team with three interceptions, and linebacker Khalil Mack has been a standout with two forced fumbles, five passes defended, 26 tackles, and 4.5 sacks. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the challenge the Chargers’ defense presents. “They play sound football. They’re relentless up front, rotating a lot of guys, and they’ve been effective in getting pressure on the quarterback. They’re plus-nine in turnover margin, so they’re creating turnovers in the pass game too. They play the game the right way.”

3. Tee Higgins Returns

One significant boost for the Bengals is the return of wide receiver Tee Higgins, who is expected to play for the first time in a month after recovering from a quad injury that sidelined him for the last three games. Higgins has been a key weapon for the Bengals when healthy, and his presence on the field will be invaluable, especially given the Bengals’ struggles in his absence. While Cincinnati’s offense has managed to put up points without him, they have lost two of the three games he missed. Higgins did not carry an injury designation into Sunday’s game, signaling that he is fit to play, and head coach Zac Taylor mentioned that Higgins had been carefully managed throughout the week for precautionary reasons. Higgins himself told ESPN that he feels “amazing” and is eager to get back on the field. “I’m very excited to get back out there with the guys. Sitting there watching, I hate it. Not being able to contribute to help get a win, it sucks. So I’m very excited to go out there and fight.” His return will help provide Burrow with a much-needed weapon, adding another dimension to the Bengals’ already potent passing attack.

4. Finishing Strong

One of the Bengals’ biggest concerns this season has been their inability to close out games, especially in the fourth quarter. Over the last three games, they have allowed 13 or more points in the fourth quarter, and they’ve been outscored in the final frame in four consecutive games, as well as five of their last six contests. With a defense that has struggled to close games, Cincinnati needs to find a way to maintain its edge and finish strong, particularly with the Chargers’ offense gaining momentum. While Los Angeles’ offense hasn’t been as explosive as some of the league’s top units, the addition of J.K. Dobbins has given the Chargers a more balanced attack, which in turn has helped quarterback Justin Herbert. Dobbins missed two full seasons due to knee and Achilles injuries but is now playing at a high level, with 670 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Cincinnati’s defense will need to step up, especially against the run, as they look to keep Dobbins from having a big impact and force Herbert into tough passing situations.

5. Injury Updates

Both teams are dealing with some key injury concerns heading into Sunday’s game. For the Bengals, defensive end Trey Hendrickson is listed as questionable after managing a neck injury, though head coach Zac Taylor expects him to play. Hendrickson did not practice on Friday and missed the team’s travel plans due to a personal matter, but he is expected to fly to Los Angeles separately and suit up for the game. Additionally, left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. is questionable after battling a knee and fibula injury that kept him out of practice for a few days this week, including Friday. Defensive tackle B.J. Hill has also been dealing with knee issues, but he has been managing pain and still producing on the field. Hill is listed as questionable, though Taylor expects him to be available. Linebacker Logan Wilson, who was limited earlier in the week with a quad issue, was a full participant in practice on Friday and is expected to play. Wide receiver Charlie Jones (groin) is ruled out for Sunday, while linebacker Joe Bachie (hip) is doubtful.

For the Chargers, the health of their defensive unit is also a question mark. Star pass rusher Khalil Mack is listed as questionable after missing practice all week due to a groin injury. Cornerback Deane Leonard (hamstring) is also questionable as he works his way back from injured reserve. On the plus side, outside linebacker Joey Bosa, who had been limited early in the week with a hip injury, returned to full practice on Friday and is expected to play on Sunday.

As both teams head into this crucial matchup, the outcome could have significant implications for their playoff hopes. For the Bengals, the game is a must-win if they hope to stay in the hunt for a postseason berth. Meanwhile, the Chargers are looking to solidify their spot in the AFC playoff picture. The game promises to be a high-stakes, hard-fought contest, with both teams dealing with injury concerns but also bringing star power to the table. For Cincinnati, the return of Higgins and the opportunity to shore up their late-game execution will be key, while for the Chargers, their defense and the continued development of their offense will be the focal points. With so much on the line, Sunday’s primetime game should be one to watch closely.