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Bengals vs. Chiefs: A Week 17 Showdown

While the absence of Joe Burrow might diminish the anticipated hype, the clash between the Cincinnati Bengals and Kansas City Chiefs remains one of the most intriguing matchups in Week 17. These two teams have consistently been among the AFC's elite in recent years, cultivating a genuine rivalry. Given the current state of the Chiefs, laying a significant number of points seems unjustifiable. The Chiefs enter this game on a short week following their Christmas Day loss to the Raiders, whereas Cincinnati enjoys extra preparation time, having not played since last Saturday.

The Chiefs' recent loss to the Raiders, even with rookie quarterback Aidan O’Connell completing no passes after the first quarter, exposes their struggles. The team has lacked rhythm and cohesion throughout the season, with Patrick Mahomes averaging less than 7 yards per attempt for the year. Having lost three of their last four games, including lopsided defeats to the Packers and Raiders, their lone win in that stretch came against the struggling Patriots.

Despite the recent skepticism around Jake Browning following a subpar game against the Steelers, he displayed promising performances before that. Cincy has secured three wins in Browning’s four starts, scoring at least 27 points in each of those victories. The Bengals desperately need a win for their playoff hopes, and the recent example of Las Vegas securing an outright win at Arrowhead Stadium suggests an environment that isn't overly intimidating. The Chiefs no longer dominate opponents as they once did, and this matchup is expected to be closely contested.

With playoff implications at stake, both teams are likely to bring their A-game. The Bengals, under Browning's leadership, have demonstrated resilience and offensive firepower, making them formidable contenders. The Chiefs, grappling with inconsistencies, face a determined Cincinnati side eager to capitalize on their vulnerabilities. This game promises a thrilling encounter, potentially adding another chapter to the evolving rivalry between these AFC powerhouses.