The Philadelphia Eagles will face the Cincinnati Bengals (pun intended) on Sunday. This is one of the most intriguing matchups of Week 8; Philly has won two in a row, while Cincy has won three of its last four games. Something has to give, right?

The Bengals have won three against tough teams during that stretch: the New York Giants, Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns.

Philly’s two most recent wins have come against common rivals. They also beat the G-Men and Cleveland. Their other two wins came in Week 1 during the trip to Brazil, against a then-2-0 New Orleans Saints team and a very good Green Bay Packers team.

The Bengals and Birds were inconsistent at the beginning of this season. Both teams can win this match. The home team is preferred.

Let’s look at two obvious areas where Philly will focus its game plan. Proper execution could lead Philadelphia to its third straight win.

Also read: Review of Week 8’s wide receiver showdown

Cincinnati has won two straight games, but it hasn’t been an easy road offensively. The Giants and Browns’ defenses gave them problems. However, both teams were disappointed with their offenses

Joe Burrow ran for his life behind the line of scrimmage the last two games. He was dismissed seven times. He did not have time to examine the site and was unable to ventilate it.

The Bengals’ explosive passing game stalled in Weeks 6 and 7. Burrow did not score in the first half of either game.

The Eagles defense tallied 12 sacks in Philly’s last two games. Of course, we’re discussing two unimpressive O-lines belonging to the Browns and Giants, but this is a good sign that Philadelphia’s passing offense has turned the corner.

It has been well documented that Philly’s offense struggled to score in the first quarter; so if their defense can get to Burrow, he can keep the game close to them or give them the lead if another slow start looms.

Jalen Carter should be feared on the Bengals’ offensive line. The former Georgia Bulldog has three sacks during this two-game hitting streak. The plan is simple. Get Burrow to step up, disrupt his timing, and keep applying pressure.

Saquon Barkley rushed for over 100 yards in three of the Eagles’ four wins. Enjoying a great season. Overuse is a concern, but Philly needs to continue nurturing its star tails.

Philadelphia should hit the rock early and often with Barkley. This will help open up the passing game and lead to easier receptions for AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith.

Another reason the Birds run the ball early and often is that Cincy gives up the tenth most rushing yards (953). Running the ball is one of Philly’s greatest strengths. Defending the run is the Bengals’ biggest weakness. Why not take advantage of this?