Cincinnati Bengals vs. Tennessee Titans in NFL Week 8: Everything to know

At 1-5-1, it’s hard to say what the Cincinnati Bengals need more: a win, or just their bye week.

A three-game losing streak has followed the team’s first win of the season and a plethora of injuries have come with it. A total of eight opening day starters will likely be out this week due to injury, but considering how the last two weeks have gone, injuries aren’t the team’s biggest concern.

Zac Taylor’s close game record has dropped to 1-12-1 after 23 career games. A 21-point blown lead against the Indianapolis Colts was immediately followed by allowing a 55-second touchdown drive to the Cleveland Browns, whom have now swept the Bengals for just the third time in the last 18 years.

Then there was the whole Carlos Dunlap thing, so it’s safe to say this isn’t the best time for the team to play a division leader.

The Tennessee Titans are coming to town fresh off a loss of their first loss of the season. They fought their way back from a 20-point deficit to the Pittsburgh Steelers, but couldn’t ended up three-points shy of completing the comeback. Putting up that many points in a hurry against the Steelers’ defense is impressive on its own, so what kind of damage can they create against the lowly Bengals’ defense?

That’s what will be under the spotlight at Paul Brown Stadium. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has one more chance before a long bye week to not look like he’s in way over his head. With Dunlap out of the picture, he should be distraction-free and able to implement the plan he desires. It better be a useful one when MVP candidate Ryan Tannehill and freight train Derrick Henry step onto the field ready to counter it.

For all the latest news, updates, and analysis regarding the Bengals’ matchup against the Titans, keep it locked into this stream!