Jaguars (2-1) at Bengals (2-1) NFL Week 4 Matchup

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 29, 2026

The Jacksonville Jaguars will visit the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday in a crucial Week 4 game where both teams hold 2-1 records, with the Jaguars favored by 2.5 points. Jacksonville aims to leverage their improving rushing attack and strong defense, while Cincinnati must protect quarterback Joe Burrow against a Jaguars secondary that leads the league in interceptions.

The Jacksonville Jaguars and Cincinnati Bengals are set to face off in an NFL Week 4 matchup on Sunday, October 4, at 1:05 p.m. Eastern Time at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The game will be broadcast on CBS, with the Jaguars entering as 2.5-point underdogs according to BetMGM.

Both teams hold identical 2-1 records, making this contest a pivotal early-season test. Jacksonville aims to capitalize on its emerging rushing attack, taking cues from the Pittsburgh Steelers’ recent success in running against Cincinnati. In that game, Steelers running back Jaylen Warren rushed for 127 yards, helping to open up the passing game for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Jaguars running back Bhaysul Tuten has recently gained confidence as the team’s primary ball carrier, while Chris Rodriguez Jr. provides valuable support. By establishing the run, Jacksonville hopes to alleviate pressure on quarterback Trevor Lawrence and create opportunities against the Bengals secondary.

For Cincinnati, protecting quarterback Joe Burrow will be a major focus. The Jaguars’ defense ranks tied for the NFL lead with four interceptions through three games, signaling a potential threat to disrupt the Bengals’ passing offense. Burrow must exercise caution to avoid turnovers after the Bengals’ defense struggled against the Steelers in their most recent outing.

A key individual matchup to watch is the Jaguars secondary versus Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. Chase has been productive in three career games against Jacksonville, totaling 31 receptions for 391 yards and two touchdowns. Last season, he posted 14 catches for 165 yards and one touchdown against the Jaguars, followed by 11 receptions for 149 yards and one score in 2023, although Burrow missed both contests due to injury.

Analysts note that Cincinnati’s defense showed vulnerability in their last game, while Jacksonville’s balanced offensive approach and strong defensive unit could provide an advantage on the road. Predictions lean toward a close contest, with the Jaguars favored to pull out a 27-24 victory.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.