The last time Atlanta took the field, its offense was shut out and Michael Penix Jr. threw four interceptions. Now the Falcons must carry that tough lesson across the ocean to Santiago Bernabéu, where they face a Cincinnati Bengals team that keeps turning wild games into wins. Sunday morning’s Week 9 game in Madrid is a crossroads: Atlanta is 3-5 and trying to restart its climb, while 5-2 Cincinnati wants to prove it belongs near the AFC’s front group.

Atlanta’s clearest path begins with Bijan Robinson. The powerful, slippery runner has rushed for 780 yards in eight games, and he can hurt defenses in more than one way. He can squeeze through a small lane, race into open grass, or catch a short pass and make the first defender miss. The Falcons average nearly 135 rushing yards per game, which gives new coach Kevin Stefanski a sturdy base after last week’s mistakes.

That ground attack can also help Penix settle in. When Robinson makes Cincinnati respect the run, Drake London and Kyle Pitts Sr. may find more room downfield. London has 624 receiving yards and uses his size to battle for difficult catches. Pitts has scored four touchdowns, showing he can be a big target near the goal line. But Atlanta must protect the ball. Lost possessions have been a season-long problem, and a sharp Bengals offense can turn extra chances into points quickly.

Cincinnati arrives with a passing game that moves like a fast relay race. Joe Burrow gets the ball out to Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, two receivers who make defenses choose a problem. Chase has six touchdown catches, with speed that can stretch a play into a long gain. Higgins brings strong hands and a larger frame, and his 726 receiving yards lead the Bengals. He just caught 10 passes for 155 yards and two touchdowns against Tennessee, a reminder that Burrow has answers even when a game becomes messy.

The Bengals score 29.4 points per game, almost eight more than Atlanta. Still, their 43-36 overtime win over Tennessee showed a weakness the Falcons can chase. Cincinnati gave up big plays and needed Burrow’s late heroics after he threw three interceptions. Atlanta’s defense must slow the first drive, tackle cleanly, and make the Bengals work through long fields instead of allowing quick strikes.

Injuries could shape the edges of this contest. Atlanta is already missing wide receiver Zachariah Branch and several linemen, while linebacker Divine Deablo and running back Brian Robinson Jr. are questionable. Cincinnati could be without key defensive backs, including DJ Turner II and Kyle Dugger. That may place even more focus on London, Pitts, Chase, and Higgins when passes arrive in crowded spaces.

The Falcons have enough star power to make this a fierce response game, especially if Robinson controls the pace. But Cincinnati has been more steady, owns the stronger record, and brings the NFL’s more explosive passing attack to Madrid. Prediction: The Bengals will win.

Bijan Robinson Brings Atlanta’s Reset to Madrid