This game is one of the more exciting contests on the slate this week. This game can provide a stepping stone for one team while sending the other in the wrong direction. Neither team is cemented as an upper-class team yet this season, and this one could help one of them get there. I am referring to the game that sees the 2-2 Cincinnati Bengals head to Texas to take on the 3-1 Dallas Cowboys.
Let’s start with the Bengals. Thus far this season, the Bengals have faced two legit teams and two sub-par teams. They have taken care of the below average teams, but have proven they cannot stand up with the big boys. They have split things up between home and the road as well. So they are simply a team that has yet to identify their identity yet truly. But one thing I do know, is they are often unreliable as favorites. Especially when on the road.
The Cowboys are riding a three-game win streak. However, like the Bengals, they have yet to establish themselves against any quality opponents. Their three wins have come against the Redskins, the Bears, and the 49ers. Rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott has looked very good in the last few games, and he will look to continue his ways against an actual NFL defense.
So it is the battle of the unknowns. We simply do not know if either team is capable of handling a quality opponent just yet. In that case, I have to favor the home team, especially given they are getting points. And the fact that I never trust the Bengals laying points.
For all week five NFL Spreads and Over/Under’s, check out our NFL week 5 Betting Odds master-sheet here.
Line: Cin -1, O/U: 45.5
Pick: Cowboys and the Over
Result: Dal 28 – Cin 14, Cowboys and the under