It's been a difficult season for the Cincinnati Bengals, who are 4-6 after another heartbreaking loss in Week 10. However, don't let the record fool you, this is still a dangerous football team, especially on the offensive side of the ball.
It might be the biggest challenge of the year for Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. One more loss and the Bengals may lose all hope of sneaking into the postseason. Here are some Bengals players the Chargers need to keep an eye on this coming weekend:
WR Ja'Marr Chase
Let's start with the best player on the field. Chase is one of the best wideouts in all of football and has been exceptional in 2024. Entering Week 11, he leads the NFL in catches (66), receiving yards (981) and receiving touchdowns (10). Even though the team's record hasn't lived up to their expectations, Chase has been nothing short of phenomenal.
TE Mike Gesicki
Gesicki has emerged as an underrated signing for Cincinnati. In 10 contests, his 383 receiving yards rank eighth among tight ends. With Tee Higgins recently sidelined due to injury, Gesicki has emerged as a good secondary option in the passing game. The former Penn State product is second on the team in receiving yards behind Chase. He has 16 catches, 203 receiving yards and two touchdowns in the last three games.
OT Orlando Brown
Brown signed a massive $64 million contract in 2023 that has had mixed results so far. He's proven to be solid for the Bengals, but he's not worth quite that much money. The trenches will be a crucial factor in this weekend's game, and that starts with Brown against the Chargers' standout pass rushers. Los Angeles ranks fourth in the NFL with 31 sacks, so it will be an exciting matchup to watch.
EDGE Trey Hendrickson
Hendrickson continues to fly under the NFL's radar. He has been a monster this season as he leads the league in sacks (11.0) and is a leading candidate for NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Hendrickson added 28 total tackles, three pass deflections and one forced fumble. The Chargers have two legitimate offensive tackles, but they will be tested against this front.
CB Mike Hilton
Hilton is one of the best slot cornerbacks in the NFL, and he proved that again in 2024. His matchup against Ladd McConkey will be a deciding factor in this AFC matchup. Hilton always plays a physical form of football and is also known as an exceptional blitz player.
