Bengals vs Lions Prediction 8/13/2026 Picks

In this article we will formulate a Lions vs Bengals prediction for this NFL game on Thursday, August 13th at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. Let’s take a look at the prediction for this preseason matchup.

Detroit Lions Betting Preview

The Detroit Lions went 9-8 last season and they finished tied for third in the NFC North standings, two games behind the Bears in first. The Lions started the season with a 27-13 loss at Green Bay, but they were 5-2 through seven games. Detroit had some injury issues and major defensive problems after that start though, as they went 4-6 in their last ten games. The Lions allowed 27+ points in five of their last seven games and the offense really took a step back. Detroit scored 28.3 points per game in 2025, while they allowed 24.3 points against per game on defense. 

Last year, Detroit went 1-3 in the preseason, which was the worst in the NFC North. The Lions lost to the Chargers 34-7, defeated the Falcons 17-10, lost to the Dolphins 24-17, and lost to the Texans 26-7 in their four preseason games. Detroit will not play most of their starters in this game. At the quarterback spot, Josh Dobbs was just signed this week and may take a few snaps, but Luke Altmyer will handle most of the work. Altmyer is a player that can make plays on the ground as well, so he may be able to move the ball consistently. 

Cincinnati Bengals Betting Preview

The Cincinnati Bengals were 6-11 last year and they finished third in the AFC North standings, four games behind the Steelers in first. The Bengals started the season with a 2-0 record after tight wins against Cleveland and Jacksonville, but they went just 4-11 in their last 15 games for another disappointing finish. Cincinnati did compete down the stretch, as they went 3-3 in their last six games and they scored 32+ points in four of those six. The Bengals scored 24.4 points per game in 2025, while they allowed 28.9 points against per game on defense. 

Last season, Cincinnati went 1-2 in the preseason, which was last in the AFC North. The Bengals lost to the Eagles 34-27, defeated the Commanders 31-17, and lost to the Colts by a score of 41-14 in their three preseason games. Cincinnati has said their starters will play a little bit in this game, but I wouldn’t expect more than a drive or two at most. Once Burrow leaves the game, we may see Flacco for a little bit, but Logan Woodside and Sean Clifford will take most of the snaps. 

Lions vs Bengals Prediction 

Cincinnati comes into this matchup as a pretty big favorite, as their starters will get some playing time, but this is a lot of points for a preseason game. The Bengals will play their starters for one or two series, so the advantage won’t last long. Detroit had a very disappointing 2025, so I could see them trying to start on a positive note with a strong showing here, plus I think Altmyer could impress with his mobility. Take the Lions and the points here.

David Racey's Pick: Lions +6.5