by Chris Asbrock

The Bengals are sitting pretty in the AFC North and they control their own destiny in the division. The Bengals are one of three undefeated teams in the AFC with Denver and New England being the others. They have exceeded many peoples’ expectations thus far this season, except for most here in the city. The next two games are key, as they host Kansas City and Seattle. Let’s take a look to this huge AFC tilt early in the season.

Offense

There may not be a quarterback who is playing better football than Andy Dalton. Obviously, he faces a massive test in the Seahawks Legion of Boom defense. The Bengals had a great game plan against the solid Chiefs defense and executed it to perfection early on. Dalton is currently third in the league with 1187 passing yard. However, the key for the Bengals today will be A.J. Green and his matchup when he is not covered by Richard Sherman. Green is fifth in the NFL with 417 receiving yards. He will have to make an impact and continue his hot play. If the Bengals can establish a running game with Gio Bernard and Jeremy Hill, things will be looking up for the Bengals.

Russell Wilson is currently middle of the pack when it comes to passing yards. He only has five touchdowns on the season, coupled with two interceptions. However, Wilson is most dangerous when the play breaks down and he can take off. He already has 177 yards rushing through the first four games. The downside, the Seahawks offensive line is pretty bad. Wilson has already been sacked an astounding 18 times. He will be under immense pressure today so it will be key for the Bengals defense to keep him in the pocket.

Advantage: Bengals

Defense

Both defenses are some of the best units in the game. The Bengals defense is certainly not as well-known as the Seahawks defense, but they are playing maybe just as well. The defense has given up the third most points in the league but that may be a little misleading. The Bengals defense gave up 21 points last week to the Chiefs, on seven field goals. Yes, seven field goals. They have been playing staunch defense and have done a great job of keeping opposing teams out of the endzone. With Geno Atkins playing like the old Geno Atkins, it could be a good day for the Bengals if they can pressure Wilson.

The Seahawks are one of the best defenses we’ve ever seen. Early on in the season, they were without Kam Chancellor as he was in a contract dispute. With that being put aside and Chancellor back, this tough defense got much stronger. This defense has given up the sixth fewest yards per game and the 13th fewest points so far. This defense will need to get pressure on Dalton and force him to beat them. If they have trouble stopping the run, it could be their downfall this afternoon.

Advantage: Seahawks

Special Teams

Advantage: Push

Coaching

Advantage: Seahawks

Prediction: Bengals 20-13

Other Predictions: 

Chris Asbrock is a staff writer and analyst for FTI Sports and can be followed on TwitterÂ