NFL betting in Tennessee is intensifying as preseason games are taking place. A particularly intriguing betting prospect presents itself with the impending face-off involving the Cincinnati Bengals (0-1) and Atlanta Falcons (1-0).

When: August 18, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET

Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia

Cincinnati Bengals Preview

The Bengals are looking to improve after their 36-19 defeat against the Green Bay Packers. They had a solid start, but were unable to produce any offense in the fourth quarter that ultimately sealed their fate.

Examining their offensive performance, they have been achieving an average of 282 total yards, with 216 yards originating from passing. In terms of defense, they have been allowing a total of 437 yards, out of which 254 yards come from passing plays. If they aim to enhance their chances of victory, it is crucial for them to enhance their defensive comprehension.

The Bengals are not playing their starters on offense, meaning you will get to see potential backup quarterbacks and not the most productive offensive plays. However, the Bengals will be sending out their defensive starters.

With this in mind, you would need to consider if the Bengals can either score the ball or will they keep things interesting on defense with their lineup playing for the first time. The Bengals were not the best on offense when they needed it most and they are up against a tough defense from the Falcons.

Atlanta Falcons Preview

The Falcons recently smothered the Miami Dolphins 19-3 in their first preseason game. In addition to their strong defense, they were able to cut loose in the fourth quarter and add a majority of their points.

Regarding their offensive performance, they are achieving an average of 248 total yards, with 146 yards originating from their passing plays. On the defensive front, their performance is notably superior to that of the Bengals, as they are only permitting an average of 357 total yards, with 189 yards stemming from passing plays as well.

The Falcons will be sending out both sides of their roster in this game, which will potentially make a difference against the Bengals. They were dominant in their defensive performance against the Dolphins with their first preseason game and could appear once again here.

With a small number of starters in their win against the Dolphins, the Falcons appear to be dangerous heading into this matchup. They are essentially using their full team against one that is not committed to playing starters during the preseason. 

Betting Odds

ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook gives you the best opportunity to bet on the NFL in Tennessee for this matchup. The following odds show that the Falcons are moderate favorites to win.

Cincinnati Bengals: +220

Spread: +6.5 (-110)

Atlanta Falcons: -260

Spread: -6.5 (-110)

Totals: Over 38.5 (-110), Under 38.5 (-110)

The Falcons will likely get off to a good start and potentially not look back. The Bengals could make things interesting if players aiming for a starter spot make crucial plays to impress.

Image courtesy of  Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK.