This was supposed to be the game we see No. 1 overall pick Joe Burrow take on a Cowboys team with Dak Prescott.
Obviously, that isn't the case for either team.
But in this battle of struggling teams with two of the worst records in the NFL, let's look at some of the key players for the Bengals.
With No. 1 pick Joe Burrow out for the season, let's look at some of the key players for the Bengals on both sides of the ball.
Who is the Guy? Tyler Boyd
The Bengals' WR1 is on the verge of posting his third straight 1,000-yard season. Boyd's creative route running ability and pass-catching skills make him a difficult matchup on the perimeter, particularly when he faces inexperienced cover corners. Considering how the Pro Bowler feasts on one-on-one coverage, the Cowboys will need to keep their eyes on Boyd to neutralize his explosive playmaking potential.
Don't Sleep On… Giovani Bernard
The eighth-year pro is a multi-purpose playmaker with the speed, quickness, and burst to exploit the Cowboys' defense. Bernard has amassed 513 scrimmage yards on 113 touches in 12 games as the Bengals' change of pace back for most of the season. As a substitute RB1 for Joe Mixon, he adds a different dimension to the offense as a jitterbug with unique playmaking ability from the backfield.
Know His Name… Tee Higgins
The rookie pass catcher has already made his mark as a WR3 opposite Tyler Boyd and A.J.Green. Higgins ranks second in receptions (53) and receiving yards (729) as a big-play specialist on the perimeter. Measuring 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, he displays a combination of athleticism, length, and leaping ability that enables him to win 50-50 balls down the field. With 11 big plays (receptions over 20 yards) on his resume, the Cowboys must keep an eye on No.85 on the perimeter.
Under Pressure… Brandon Allen
Whenever the backup quarterback is thrust into the starting role, the defense tends to ratchet up the pressure to see if the QB2 is capable of holding his own under duress. Allen will get a chance to show his wares against a Cowboys' defense that is intent on getting back on track after a few disappointing performances. As a career journeyman with a 50.8-percent completion rate, the Bengals' success hinges on an inconsistent passer with questionable judgment.
Numbers Game
The Bengals feature the worst pass rush in football with just 13 sacks in 12 games. The defense's inability to pressure the passer will prompt defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo to send pressure from every angle. Although his efforts have failed to produce positive results, the Cowboys' reshuffled offensive line must be prepared to deal with a host of five- and six-man pressures on Sunday.
Match-up to Watch: Ezekiel Elliott vs Josh Bynes
Elliott appeared to regain his rhythm against the Ravens and could be primed for a breakout game against the Bengals. Bynes is an instinctive defender with a knack for finding the ball. He needs to play at a high level to help the Bengals keep Elliott under wraps.
Offensive Strategy
The loss of Joe Burrow and Joe Mixon has dramatically altered the Bengals' offensive approach. Taylor has attempted to adapt to his new circumstances by utilizing a quick rhythm passing game designed to get the ball into the hands of Boyd, Higgins, Green, and Bernard. The "five out" (five eligible receivers into the route) premise can stretch the defense but it also leaves the quarterback vulnerable to big hits in the pocket. If the Bengals can keep Allen upright and out of harm's way, there will be a few chances for the offense to produce fireworks against the Cowboys' defense.
Defensive Strategy
Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has been forced to dial up the pressure to generate a consistent pass rush. The aggressive tactics haven't yielded positive results but it is a necessity to help the Bengals keep the score down. Considering the defense has held each of their last three opponents to 20 points or fewer, the Cowboys will face a unique challenge from a 2-9-1 team desperately looking for a win.
