Cincinnati returns home after a Week 7 win over Baltimore to face a 1-6 Tennessee team whose offense has recently improved but remains near the bottom of the league. The Bengals’ pressure-heavy defense will test quarterback Cam Ward, while stopping running back Tony Pollard is a key challenge. Tennessee’s defense has shown signs of creating turnovers, though it has struggled to limit both rushing and passing production.

By the Numbers
  • Tennessee is averaging 15.4 points and 248.6 yards per game, ranking 31st and 32nd, respectively.
  • Pollard ran for 129 yards and three touchdowns against Cleveland; he has 478 rushing yards this season.
  • Ward averages 5.7 yards per attempt, while Cincinnati pressures opposing quarterbacks on 39.1% of dropbacks.
  • The Titans allow 364.1 yards per game and have given up 233 passing yards per game, the NFL’s ninth-highest mark.
Yes, But

Tennessee’s 1-6 record and weak season-long offensive numbers are tempered by back-to-back stronger scoring performances. The Titans have also forced multiple turnovers in consecutive games, making them a more dangerous opponent than their record alone suggests.

State of Play
  • Cincinnati’s defense held Derrick Henry to 45 yards in Week 7 and now faces Pollard, who is coming off his best game of the season.
  • Tennessee rookie receiver Carnell Tate is a downfield target, while Wan’Dale Robinson works closer to the line of scrimmage.
  • Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. leads the Titans with 68 tackles; defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons leads NFL defensive tackles with 28 quarterback pressures.
Bottom Line

Cincinnati has the defensive pressure to disrupt Ward, but containing Pollard is essential: Tennessee’s recent offensive spark has come with his increased production.