4 Matchups to Watch in Bengals-Falcons in Madrid

The Cincinnati Bengals head to Madrid for a Week 9 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, where four battles could determine whether their winning streak continues.

DJ Turner vs. Drake London

DJ Turner faces an important assignment against Drake London after leaving Cincinnati’s overtime victory with a heel injury. London has 624 receiving yards, giving Michael Penix Jr. a productive target capable of challenging defenders with his size and catch radius. Turner will not necessarily follow London throughout the game, but limiting him when their assignments intersect would help Cincinnati avoid explosive completions. 

However, sound coverage must be followed by secure tackling, particularly when Atlanta creates opportunities underneath. If Turner can contest throws without allowing easy yards after the catch, the Bengals can make Atlanta work harder to sustain drives.

Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins vs. Atlanta’s secondary

Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins present a difficult coverage challenge because committing extra resources to either receiver creates opportunities for the other. Both have 43 receptions, but Higgins leads Cincinnati with 726 receiving yards while Chase has six touchdown catches. Atlanta must balance protecting against explosive plays with preventing Joe Burrow from moving efficiently through shorter completions. 

Cincinnati should remain patient rather than forcing throws into crowded windows simply to involve its stars. Moving both receivers around could help identify favorable matchups and coverage intentions. If Burrow consistently finds the better opportunity, Atlanta will struggle to contain both threats.

Cincinnati’s run defense vs. Bijan Robinson

Bijan Robinson presents a test that extends beyond Cincinnati’s defensive line, as containing him requires coordinated pursuit and reliable tackling throughout the defense. The Bengals must maintain their rushing lanes without allowing Robinson to exploit defenders who overcommit or lose leverage. 

Winning initial contact matters, but finishing those tackles is equally important against a runner capable of creating additional yardage. However, crowding the line of scrimmage carries risks if Atlanta uses play action to attack behind the linebackers. If Cincinnati can contain Robinson without repeatedly involving extra defenders, it can force Atlanta into longer passing situations while preserving coverage flexibility.

Cincinnati’s pass rush vs. Michael Penix Jr. 

Michael Penix Jr. against Cincinnati’s pass rush could ultimately determine whether Atlanta has time to exploit its receiving options. Cashius Howell’s absence following wrist surgery reduces the Bengals’ available depth, making contributions across the remaining rotation especially important. Cincinnati needs pressure that disrupts Penix’s rhythm rather than simply accumulating sacks after long developing plays. 

However, relying too heavily on blitzes could leave fewer defenders available to help against London and Robinson. Generating pressure with four rushers would allow the Bengals to protect vulnerable areas behind them. If Cincinnati consistently moves Penix off his spot, it can disrupt Atlanta’s passing game.