The New England Patriots enter Sunday’s matchup in Cincinnati with confidence and momentum. They’ve won eight straight under Mike Vrabel and locked up their first winning season since 2021. At 9-2, they control the AFC East and continue to strengthen their playoff positioning. Their defense has tightened in key moments, and the offense has found rhythm at the right time, giving New England a clear identity as the postseason approaches.

Cincinnati sits in a much different place. The Bengals are 3-7 and running out of time to stay in the AFC playoff picture. Their biggest storyline centers on Joe Burrow’s availability. He recently returned to full practice for the first time since turf-toe surgery opened his injured-reserve window, but Zac Taylor has not committed to him playing Sunday. U

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