Ben Baby
ESPN Staff Writer
3 Minute Read
CINCINNATI — The Bengals will be without one of their key wide receivers in a crucial upcoming game.
Star wide receiver Tee Higgins will be absent for the second consecutive game due to a lingering hamstring injury, greatly impacting the team’s prospects. Despite missing practice all week, the Bengals officially ruled him out for the game on Wednesday.
The talented fourth-year player from Clemson sustained the injury during practice on November 8th and was unable to play in the team’s previous game against the Texans. In addition to Higgins, defensive end Sam Hubbard, who also missed all week due to an ankle injury, will be sidelined for the upcoming game against Baltimore.
Furthermore, the Bengals will be without wide receiver Andrei Iosivas, who has been absent all week with a knee injury. This loss of depth will undoubtedly pose a challenge for the team in the absence of Higgins, who showcased his skill in previous games.
In Week 9, Higgins put up a stellar performance in a victory over the Bills, making eight catches out of nine targets for 110 yards. This standout game was preceded by a strong showing in Week 2 against Baltimore, where he secured eight catches for 89 yards and both of his touchdowns for the season.
The absence of Higgins was also felt by his teammates, with Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase noting that the limited 1-on-1 matchups in their previous game affected their play. The Bengals, who currently boast a 5-4 record, face a tough matchup against a 7-3 Baltimore team known for its formidable defense.
Despite the challenges, there is a sense of anticipation and urgency within the Bengals camp, with offensive coordinator Brian Callahan acknowledging the high stakes for the upcoming game against Baltimore.
Adding to their woes, the Bengals received some positive news in the form of defensive end Trey Hendrickson, the team’s leading pass-rusher, who is set to play against Baltimore after recovering from a knee injury sustained in the game against Houston.
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