Jacksonville let a winnable road game slip away in Cincinnati, producing 400 yards and a 5.1 per-carry average but failing to convert opportunities. Two early Trevor Lawrence interceptions and Brian Thomas Jr. drops hampered drives, while a controversial defensive DPI extended a key Bengal drive. Jake Browning steadied Cincinnati after Joe Burrow's early exit, and the Jaguars must clean errors and finish drives to stay in playoff contention.

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow sits, and Jake Browning gets the start as Cincinnati becomes a 3.5-point underdog to Minnesota with a 43.5 total. Browning’s calm, trust-filled performance has the coaching staff and players optimistic as Cincinnati rides a seven-game win streak into the matchup, aiming to stack wins while Burrow’s return remains uncertain for 2025.

Zac Taylor praised Browning after a 31-27 win over Jacksonville, underscoring the QB’s poise and the team’s belief in him. Cincinnati’s offense has shown resilience despite a recent 22-6 SNF loss to Atlanta with no Bengals TD, elevating Browning’s fantasy implications and the broader bet-and-draft outlook as the season progresses.

Panthers open 0-2 for the fourth straight year as early deficits again hamstring the start. A 26-10 loss at Jacksonville and a 27-22 stumble in Arizona left Carolina chasing from the first half, with Bryce Young delivering a late push that fell short. The long-running skid since 2018, now 36-82, underscores persistent roster gaps and coaching turnover. Offseason chatter links Jadeveon Clowney to a Cowboys deal and signals a 2026 safety target, hinting at roster moves that could reshape fantasy values.