The Cincinnati Bengals face a significant challenge as they prepare for their Week 9 showdown against the formidable Philadelphia Eagles. According to NFL expert Dan Graziano, this game could be impacted by the status of key players.

Sources indicate that Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins, who sustained a quad injury during Friday’s practice, may be unable to compete in Sunday’s critical matchup against the Eagles. The Bengals are poised to wait until game time to make a final decision, but there is growing skepticism regarding his chances of playing.

As of Friday’s injury report, Higgins has been officially designated as doubtful for the game. Fans and team members alike will learn more about his status when the inactive list is announced at 11:30 AM Eastern on Sunday morning. This decision could significantly affect the Bengals’ offensive strategy and overall game plan.

The potential absence of Higgins is a substantial concern for the Bengals. This season, he has recorded 29 receptions for 341 yards and 3 touchdowns. Although the Bengals can still rely on the exceptional talent of Ja’Marr Chase, who leads the team with 39 catches for 620 yards and 6 touchdowns, Higgins’ absence would allow the Eagles to focus more on limiting Chase’s impact. Here’s a look at the performance of the Bengals’ other receiving options this season:

• Andrei Iosivas: 24 targets, 14 receptions, 189 yards, 3 touchdowns
• Jermaine Burton: 2 targets, 1 reception, 47 yards
• Trenton Irwin: 8 targets, 2 receptions, 11 yards
• Charlie Jones: 1 target, 1 reception, 5 yards

Overall, this group does not present the same level of threat without Higgins on the field, potentially hampering the Bengals’ offensive effectiveness.

The Philadelphia Eagles’ defense comes into this game riding high, having not allowed a touchdown in their last two outings. Their defensive system and pass rush have been highly effective, working in tandem to stifle opposing offenses. The spotlight will be on defensive coordinator Vic Fangio to see if his strategy can effectively neutralize Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, especially if Higgins is sidelined.