The Bengals and Patriots have one half of football in the books, and through two quarters it’s been all Cincinnati. They take a 22-0 lead heading into the break after a hot start offensively. Joe Burrow led back-to-back touchdown drives to begin the afternoon, including a 78-yard march on the first drive fo the game that took just over two minutes to get into the end zone.
Meanwhile, it’s another — albeit familiar — story for the Patriots. Bill Belichick watched as his offense punted on each of their first four possessions to begin the game, headlined by two three-and-outs on the first two drives of the day. Even after a clutch interception by Devin McCourty off Burrow, Mac Jones and the offense were unable to do much of anything with it as they punted the ball back to Cincinnati just four plays later.
So, will the Bengals hang on to move to 11-4 on the season or will the Patriots keep their postseason hopes alive with a comeback in the second half? We’re about to find out. As this pivotal AFC head-to-head showdown continues to unfold, be sure to check out our live blog of Saturday’s contest. Below, you’ll find expert analysis and real-time highlights of all the top plays.
How to watch
Date: Saturday, Dec. 24 | Time: 1 p.m. ET
Location: Gillette Stadium (Foxborough, Massachusetts)
TV: GIS | Stream: Paramount+
Follow: CBS Sports App
odds: Bengals -3, O/U 41.5 (courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook)