Bengals vs. Patriots picks, predictions Week 1: What NFL experts are saying

The Cincinnati Bengals will host the New England Patriots to kick off the 2024 campaign at Paycor Stadium.

While the Bengals are looking to bounce back from a surprising 9-8 season despite being without Joe Burrow for the majority of the second half. However, Burrow is healthy while questions surround Ja'Marr Chase and his contract dispute .

Meanwhile, the Patriots used the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft to select Drake Maye. Despite this, veteran journeyman Jacoby Brissett will begin the season as the starter.

This isn't expected to be much of a competitive affair in Cincinnati. The Bengals are nine-point favorites over the Patriots, according to Ceasars, which is the largest spread of the week.

Ahead of this matchup on Sunday afternoon, we're taking a look at how the experts around the league feel about the outcome. For Bengals fans, this should come as no surprise.

Bengals vs. Patriots picks, predictions Week 1

Sporting News

Vinnie Iyer: Bengals, 27-14

"The Bengals should be pumped to have a healthy Joe Burrow leading the offense again with the Patriots' defense being in transition without Bill Belichick. They can slow down some of Burrow's support, but not all. The Patriots' offense, with whoever's at QB, can't expect to keep up, and it will also face a strong pass rush and tough coverage looks once it's not in position to keep running."

Bill Bender: Bengals, 25-17

"The largest line of Week 1 has the Bengals at home in Week 1, and Joe Burrow and the starters played more in the preseason this year. That’s because Cincinnati has lost in Week 1 in four of the past five seasons, and the only victory was in overtime against Minnesota in 2021. The Patriots open a new chapter with Jerod Mayo, and the key will be avoiding turnovers on the road. Get this line now before it drops during the week."

ESPN

Matt Bowen: Bengals

Kimberley A. Martin: Bengals

Jason Reid: Bengals

Dan Graziano: Bengals

Lindsey Thiry: Bengals

Seth Wickersham: Bengals

CBS Sports

Pete Prisco: Bengals, 26-17

"Joe Burrow is back healthy for the Bengals in this one, which immediately makes the Bengals a contender. Being at home is even more of an advantage against a Pats team that has roster limitations. New coach Jerod Mayo will have this team playing a tough brand of football, but in the second half it will be Burrow who takes over as Jacoby Brissett struggles."

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