SPIRALING: Red-Hot Patriots vs. Short-Handed Bengals, Key Matchups & Effort Problems

The New England Patriots have surge to the top of the AFC with Drake Maye entering the MVP conversation, while the Cincinnati Bengals spiral after three straight losses and Ja'Marr Chase’s suspension. Can Joe Flacco and a depleted Bengals offense find answers against Mike Vrabel’s rejuvenated Patriots, or will Cincinnati’s tackling woes continue to haunt them? James Rapien and Nick Cattles break down key matchups like Christian Gonzalez vs. Tee Higgins, the impact of Milton Williams’ injury up front, and the Bengals’ desperate need for defensive improvement.