Breakdown Eagles vs. The Bengals reveal a lot about the elite WR lineup

In Week 8, two of the league’s most effective duos will go head-to-head when the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Cincinnati Bengals. Both teams have a pair of outstanding receivers capable of controlling games, but injuries have affected their performance this season

While AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith bring physicality and precision to the Eagles offense, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins offer speed and explosiveness for the Bengals.

With both duos leading their teams’ aerial attacks, this matchup will come down to outplaying the opposing defense. Let’s break down each reception room and check the matches.

Must read: Staggering Eagles vs. Bengals stats that could affect Philly’s strategy

AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith have combined to play just eight games this season, reflecting the impact of injuries. Despite the limited playing time, the duo combined for 41 receptions, 625 yards and five touchdowns on a 33.8% target share.

The Eagles’ offensive scheme leans more towards the sideline, with 48.72% of their plays ending in passes. Additionally, the Eagles’ pass-blocking unit is performing well, posting a 66 percent pass block win rate, allowing Brown and Smith to get open for cornerback Jalen Hurts.

As of 1:30 p.m. our friends at DraftKings have Brown and Smith cords in stock:

Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have been quite productive again this season, combining for 12 games played, 68 receptions, 961 yards and 9 touchdowns for a 41.1% target share.

The Bengals, unlike the Eagles, have a more pass-heavy approach, with 66.85% of their plays coming through the air.

However, the Bengals’ offensive line has struggled a bit more than Philadelphia’s, as evidenced by their 57% pass block win rate. That could limit quarterback Joe Burrow’s time to target Chase and Higgins, especially against the Eagles’ relentless pass rush.

Here are the current DraftKings player offers for Chase and Higgins (if the latter plays):

Brown and Smith must find ways against a Bengals defense that is allowing 1,519 yards and giving up 25.7 points per game. While Cincinnati’s pass rush has 12 sacks and a 42% pass completion rate, it’s not as dominant as Philadelphia’s, which means Hurts may have time to find his top targets.

The Bengals’ ability to generate a turnover with six interceptions (which is the sixth-most) could be a concern, but the Eagles’ more conservative approach to passing could reduce risky throws. Against the Bengals secondary, Brown and Smith could use coverage, especially with Cincinnati allowing 1,519 passing yards already this season.

However, with the Eagles’ tendency to pass less often, their success may depend on dynamic play and timely deep shots.

The Eagles’ defense has allowed 1,135 yards and 19.2 points per game, but they rank last in the league with just two interceptions this season. Chase and Higgins could play well if Burrow gets the protection he needs, but again, that’s assuming Higgins plays on Sunday.

However, Philadelphia’s front seven was impressive, tallying 19 sacks on a 43% pass completion rate. That pressure could force Burrow to make quicker throws, limiting opportunities for Chase and Higgins.

The Eagles’ secondary is allowing the sixth-most targets and ninth-most receptions to opposing wide receivers, suggesting Chase and Higgins could have big-play opportunities.

Both wide receiver duos have dealt with injuries this season, with some missing more time than others, which has affected their performance. However, with both teams relying heavily on their top receivers, expect those four receivers to be the center of attention on Sunday.

The outcome of this matchup could come down to which offensive line can provide better protection and which defense can limit the big play, potentially capitalizing on turnovers.

Regardless, fans are in for an exciting matchup between two of the most talented wide receiver pairings in the league.