Date: Monday, August 18, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Location: Northwest Stadium, Landover, MD
TV: ESPN
This Monday night showdown caps off Week 2 of the preseason, pitting the Bengals against the Commanders. Both teams will rely heavily on backup and rookie play as they continue roster evaluation before the regular season.
Matchup Overview
- Spread: Bengals –4 / Commanders +4
- Total (O/U): 42.5
- Moneyline: Bengals –180 / Commanders +150
Cincinnati Bengals
In Week 1, the Bengals fell 34–27 to the Philadelphia Eagles in a high-octane preseason opener. Joe Burrow delivered a sharp showing, completing 9 of 10 passes for 122 yards and two touchdowns. Ja’Marr Chase was efficient with 77 yards and a score, while tight end Tanner Hudson added a memorable touchdown reception. However, defensively, Cincinnati struggled against the Eagles’ second‑unit offense and had to rely on late-game plays to stay within reach Philadelphia Eagles+15Cincy Jungle+15Wikipedia+15Wikipedia.
Washington Commanders
Washington opened the preseason with a lopsided 48–18 loss to the New England Patriots, struggling immensely in all three phases of the game. Their special teams were especially porous—one opening kickoff was returned 100 yards for a touchdown, and the unit committed multiple penalties. On offense, backup Sam Hartman’s debut was rocky, while Josh Johnson fared slightly better. Rookie Trey Amos did stand out with strong coverage and run defense, and tackle Josh Conerly Jr. showed promise Hogs Haven+1.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Bengals O-Line (backups) vs. Washington’s Pass Rush – Will Cincinnati’s offensive line maintain its Week 1 form?
- QB Rotation Performance – Jake Browning (CIN) vs. Sam Hartman / Marcus Mariota (WAS) could dictate offensive efficiency.
- Third-Down & Special Teams Impact – Washington’s early mistakes and Cincinnati’s ability to convert key plays could swing this tight game.
Prediction
Cincinnati’s Week 1 offensive performance, particularly from Burrow and Chase, was encouraging. Meanwhile, Washington’s opener exposed issues that they’ll need to fix quickly, especially in special teams. Expect the Bengals to control the pace early and ride their offense to another close win.
Projected Final Score:
Bengals 24 – Commanders 17
- Total Points: 41 → Under 42.5
- Margin: 7 points → Bengals cover –4
Best Bets
- Bengals –4 (-110) – Offensive efficiency and smoother QB play give Cincinnati the edge.
- Under 42.5 (-110) – Anticipate a defensive stalemate as starters play limited minutes.
- First Half Bengals –2 (-110) – Early rhythm could allow them to claim an early lead.
For more expert predictions and analysis, check out our complete lineup of NFL Picks.
