This non-conference battle pits two teams clinging to fading postseason hopes. The Bengals enter with their playoff chances on life support and seek consistency after a tough division loss. With Prescott sidelined for the season, the Cowboys have relied on their defense to keep them competitive in the Wild Card push. Both teams boast offensive playmakers, but their success will hinge on protecting the football and winning at the line of scrimmage. Cincinnati's pass protection struggles and Dallas's inability to fully capitalize on offensive opportunities can determine the outcome of this Monday Night Football matchup.
Week 13 Recap
The Bengals fell in a thrilling 44-38 shootout against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where Joe Burrow threw for 309 yards and three touchdowns but was also plagued by turnovers and sacks. Despite a pick-six from cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt, Cincinnati's struggling defense failed to contain Pittsburgh’s offense. The Cowboys secured a 27-20 win over the New York Giants behind a balanced offensive attack. Cooper Rush threw 195 yards and a touchdown in his fourth start this season. Rico Dowdle carried the ground game with 112 rushing yards and a score, while Dallas’ defense, led by Micah Parsons and DeMarvion Overshown, stifled a banged-up and lackluster Giants offense.