NFL

Bengals vs Broncos: Mile High Battle

Altitude amplifies risk—will the striped cats claw out an upset?

Cincinnati Bengals

CIN (2-1) VS DEN (1-2)

Sep 29, 2025 | 7:15 PM ET | Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO

Denver Broncos
Moneyline Pick - Cincinnati Bengals (350): B-

Cincinnati heads to Denver with an offensive profile that suggests value as a road underdog. Their recent uptick in scoring has shown balance and travel resilience, making them less vulnerable to the altitude challenges at Mile High. Meanwhile, Denver’s offense has sputtered, still struggling to consistently crack 20 points per game. Layer in a Cincinnati defense that has rediscovered its pass rush over the last two weeks, and the matchup metrics lean toward the visitors creating disruptive moments. While market odds frame this as a longshot, the blend of offensive cohesion and defensive pressure provides a logical basis for backing the Bengals as a pick against the grain.

From a betting standpoint, the appeal rests in the number. At a price point implying barely over a one-in-five chance of success, even a modest probability bump makes the wager worth a look. Denver’s inability to sustain drives has left its defense overextended, which only compounds when facing a capable aerial attack. Casual bettors may be deterred by the venue’s reputation, but Cincinnati’s road form eases some of those concerns. This prediction doesn’t carry premium confidence, yet the bet on an underdog moneyline aligns with both recent performance and situational opportunity.

This prediction gets a B- grade. Odds and availability subject to change. Follow Shurzy on Instagram and Tiktok for more expert picks.

This bet was made on 09/29/2025 at 9:02am

Over/Under Pick - Over 44.5 (-105): B

The posted total of 44.5 feels light when weighed against how these teams are trending. Cincinnati has leaned on tempo to manufacture rhythm, and Denver’s defense has not held up well against sustained drives, yielding nearly six yards per snap. That dynamic opens the door for chunk plays and extended possessions, especially in a setting where altitude can amplify passing production and field-goal range. On the other side, Denver’s offense has shown more willingness to speed things up, which means additional snaps and more opportunities for both sides to find the end zone. With conditions shaping up ideal for scoring, the setup leans toward a more open contest than the market projects.

From a betting perspective, this matchup checks several boxes that support the Over. Explosive pass plays have repeatedly tested Cincinnati’s secondary, and Denver’s passing game is built to capitalize in that area. Meanwhile, the Bengals’ offensive versatility has shown it can travel, making them less likely to stall even in a tough environment. Given that both clubs feature trusted red-zone targets and the weather poses no barrier, the prediction that this total climbs past the posted number feels justified. For those looking at this bet, the Over stands as the stronger pick.

This prediction gets a B grade. Odds and availability subject to change. Follow Shurzy on Instagram and Tiktok for more expert picks.

This bet was made on 09/29/2025 at 9:05am

Spread Pick - Cincinnati Bengals +7.5 (-110): B+

Denver enters this matchup priced as a heavy favorite, yet its underlying metrics don’t fully justify the number. The Broncos’ defense has shown vulnerabilities against intermediate patterns, and Cincinnati’s pass game is well-equipped to capitalize with timing routes and yards after the catch. Combined with a pass rush that struggles to consistently generate pressure, Denver may find it difficult to create the separation implied by a more-than-touchdown spread. Cincinnati’s defensive approach also tends to limit explosive breakdowns, keeping contests within striking distance. In a matchup without major injury disruptions, the environment points to a tighter affair than the line suggests, making the road side the sharper pick to keep things close.

From a betting angle, that half-point hook on the spread adds real value. Cincinnati has performed well in games decided by a single possession, and their style lends itself to hanging around even when trailing. The fatigue factor of altitude may play a role late, but it isn’t likely to decide the early script, leaving back-door potential firmly in play. For bettors, this prediction highlights an opportunity to take the points with confidence that the game flow can deliver cover equity. If you’re leaning on this pick, the bet rests on Cincinnati’s proven ability to stay within the number.

This prediction gets a B+ grade. Odds and availability subject to change. Follow Shurzy on Instagram and Tiktok for more expert picks.

This bet was made on 09/29/2025 at 9:00am

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