Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase poised to dominate struggling Cardinals in pivotal Bengals matchup
The summer brought anticipation for the Arizona Cardinals as they prepared for a road clash against the Cincinnati Bengals. However, as both teams now look ahead to the 2026 season, the sentiment has shifted dramatically. Once viewed as playoff contenders, both franchises find themselves grappling with injuries and a bleak outlook for the remainder of the year. While Arizona appears to be lacking direction, Cincinnati feels mired in uncertainty—a stark contrast to their previous aspirations.
A Talent Discrepancy
As the Bengals gear up for this matchup, the disparity in talent between the two teams is striking. While neither squad boasts a formidable defense, Cincinnati has a distinct edge on offense. An underperforming Bengals team still manages to outshine their counterparts in Arizona. Despite the struggles, the hope for an offensive shootout hangs in the air, though skepticism lingers about whether the game will live up to that expectation.
Highlighting the Key Players
In this instance, the focus turns to the offensive side of the ball, as injuries have sidelined some of the best defensive talents. Here’s a look at the five most impactful players for both teams, excluding the quarterbacks, who could shape the game.
The Quarterbacks
Jacoby Brissett has thrown for over 2,900 yards in just 10 games this season, finding the end zone in each start. However, turnovers have plagued the Cardinals, contributing to their dismal 1–9 record during his tenure, including a streak of seven consecutive losses. Conversely, Joe Burrow, when fully healthy, is often regarded as one of the elite quarterbacks in the league. Known for his agility and ability to extend plays, Burrow possesses an arm talent that sets him apart from his peers. With a wealth of offensive weapons at his disposal, he becomes a near-impossible challenge for opposing defenses when in form.
5. Chase Brown
Chase Brown may not be a household name, but his contributions have been significant behind the scenes. A fifth-round pick out of Illinois, Brown came just shy of 1,000 rushing yards last season and is on track to do so again. As a capable pass catcher out of the backfield, he has amassed 116 receptions and eight touchdowns in his first two seasons. His versatility makes him a constant threat, and the Cardinals will need to devise a plan to contain him alongside the rest of the Bengals’ offensive arsenal.
4. Michael Wilson
Making his first appearance on this list, Michael Wilson has been a revelation in recent weeks. Over the past month and a half, he has racked up 587 receiving yards and four touchdowns across six games. His burgeoning chemistry with Brissett has been a bright spot for the Cardinals, especially against a vulnerable Bengals defense. With a wealth of wide receiver talent on both sides, Wilson’s recent performance positions him among the top 15 receivers in the league, making him a player to watch.
3. Tee Higgins
Since entering the league in 2020, Tee Higgins has consistently showcased his talent, notching 10 touchdowns this season, tying his career high. His combination of size and speed allows him to exploit defenses effectively. In a pass-heavy offense, Higgins has thrived, particularly while playing alongside Ja’Marr Chase, which has afforded him favorable matchups. With seven touchdowns in his last six games, Higgins stands poised for a standout performance against a thin Cardinals secondary.
2. Trey McBride
Despite a lackluster outing against the Falcons, Trey McBride remains a significant threat. His four catches for just 27 yards marked his worst game of the season, but he has otherwise been a dynamic playmaker. The Bengals’ defense does not instill fear in opponents, and McBride will likely face rookie linebackers Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight Jr. The young defenders will need to step up against a seasoned playmaker, making this matchup a crucial test.
1. Ja’Marr Chase
Ja’Marr Chase stands out as arguably the premier wide receiver in the NFL. His accolades include a rare receiving triple crown in 2024, and he has surpassed 1,200 receiving yards this season, showcasing his ability to thrive regardless of quarterback. Chase’s previous performances against the Cardinals are noteworthy; he torched them for 192 yards and three touchdowns in their last meeting. Facing a weakened secondary, Chase could be primed for another explosive game.
As the Bengals prepare to face the Cardinals, the stakes are high. With their recent struggles in mind, this matchup provides an opportunity for both teams to either solidify a sense of direction or further complicate their journeys ahead.
