In Week 8, two of the league’s most electrifying wide receiver duos go head-to-head when the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Cincinnati Bengals. Both teams have a pair of outstanding receivers who can take over games, but injuries have affected their production this season

While AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith bring a mix of physicality and precision to the Eagles offense, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins offer speed and explosiveness for the Bengals.

With both duos leading their teams’ aerial attacks, this clash will come down to which one can outmaneuver the opposition defence. Let’s break down each receiver room and examine the matchups.

Must read: Eye-catching stats from Eagles vs Bengals that could affect Philly’s strategy

AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith have played in just eight games combined this season, reflecting the impact of injuries. Despite the limited playing time, this duo has managed 41 receptions, 625 yards and five touchdowns, contributing to a 33.8% completion percentage.

The Eagles’ offensive scheme leans more towards the run game, with 48.72% of their plays resulting in passes. Additionally, the Eagles’ pass-blocking unit has held up well, with a 66% pass-block win rate, allowing Brown and Smith to get open for quarterback Jalen Hurts.

From 13:30, our friends at DraftKings have Brown and Smith’s props:

Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have again been quite productive this season, combining for 12 games played, 68 receptions, 961 yards and nine touchdowns, which equates to a 41.1% completion percentage.

The Bengals, in contrast to the Eagles, have a more pass-heavy approach, with 66.85% of their plays coming through the air.

However, the Bengals’ offensive line has struggled a bit more than Philadelphia’s, as evidenced by their 57% pass block win rate. This could limit quarterback Joe Burrows’ time to target Chase and Higgins, especially against a relentless Eagles pass rush.

Here are DraftKing’s current player guidelines for Chase and Higgins (if the latter plays):

Brown and Smith should find openings against a Bengals defense that has allowed 1,519 passing yards and is giving up 25.7 points per game. While Cincinnati’s pass rush has 12 sacks and a 42% win rate, it’s not as dominant as Philadelphia’s, meaning Hurts may have time to find his top targets.

The Bengals’ ability to generate turnovers with six interceptions (tied for sixth-most) could be an issue, but the Eagles’ more conservative passing strategy could cut down on risky throws. Against the Bengals’ secondary, Brown and Smith were able to exploit coverage, especially with Cincinnati allowing 1,519 passing yards already this season.

Still, with the Eagles’ tendency to pass less often, their success may depend on play-action plays and well-timed deep shots.

The Eagles defense has allowed 1,135 passing yards and 19.2 points per game, but they rank near the bottom of the league with only two interceptions this season. Chase and Higgins could have a strong showing if Burrow gets the protection he needs, but again, that’s assuming Higgins plays on Sunday.

However, Philadelphia’s front seven has been formidable, with 19 sacks on a 43% pass-rush gain. This pressure can force Burrow into quicker throws, limiting downfield options for Chase and Higgins.

The Eagles’ secondary allows the sixth-most targets and ninth-most receptions to opposing wide receivers, suggesting Chase and Higgins could have big-play opportunities.

Both wide receiver duos have been plagued by injuries this season – some missing more time than others, affecting their production. But with both teams relying heavily on their top receivers, expect those four receivers to be focal points on Sunday.

The outcome of this matchup could depend on which offensive line can provide better protection and which defense can limit big plays while potentially benefiting from turnovers.

Regardless, fans should be in for an exciting contest between two of the most talented wide receiver pairings in the league.