5 Bold predictions for New England Patriots vs. Cincinnati Bengals

Patriots vs. Bengals Bold Prediction: Brandon LaFell will outgain A.J. Green

It’s shaping up to be another elite year for A.J. Green; the sixth-year veteran is on pace for 115 receptions and 1,658 yards, both of which would be career highs. It’s Green’s stardom, as well as the respect he receives from Bill Belichick, that makes this a bold prediction.

In fact, when I told my boss at my day job that Green would be out-produced by Brandon LaFell this week, he immediately responded “that’s bold”, almost as if he knew I had to write a bold predictions article after clocking out.

Here’s the thing: LaFell was the only Bengals pass catcher that had touchdown success in the Week 5 embarrassment in Dallas. LaFell racked up 68 yards and two fourth quarter touchdown catches on eight receptions; both touchdowns were in the red zone.

Considering that Bill Belichick will allocate resources toward Green in this game, LaFell should have a good matchup against one of his former cornerback teammates: Logan Ryan, Malcolm Butler or Justin Coleman (if he’s activated).

Speaking of Butler…

Next: Malcolm Butler pick-six