This matchup between the Bengals and Cowboys has all the signs of a high-scoring shootout, driven by explosive offenses and struggling defenses. Cincinnati ranks 31st in scoring defense, allowing the sixth-most yards per game, while Dallas ranks 28th in EPA per play allowed and has given up an alarming 34.5 points per game at home. Over their last five games, the Bengals have allowed 34.8 points per game, further highlighting their defensive struggles.

Offensively, the Bengals rank 7th in EPA per play (0.099) behind the efficient play of Joe Burrow, whose passing attack is poised to exploit Dallas’ weak secondary. Meanwhile, the Cowboys' offense has surged under Cooper Rush, putting up 61 combined points in their last two games. Both teams have consistently trended towards high totals this season, with the Over hitting in 9 of 12 Bengals games and 8 of 12 Cowboys games.

Recent betting trends further bolster the case for the Over. The Over is 5-1 in Cincinnati's last six non-conference road games and 5-1 in Dallas’ last six non-conference home games, reflecting a consistent pattern of high-scoring matchups in these scenarios. The controlled environment at AT&T Stadium’s dome ensures ideal conditions for offense, and with both teams needing a win to keep slim playoff hopes alive, expect aggressive play-calling to fuel a fast-paced game.

With both defenses struggling and both offenses clicking, coupled with historical Over trends, the Over 49.5 is a compelling play for this exciting showdown.