In Charlotte, North Carolina, Joe Burrow understood the importance of securing a victory early in the NFL season, and he delivered an impressive performance on the field. The fifth-year quarterback threw for 232 yards and two touchdowns, supported by Chase Brown’s 80 rushing yards and two scores, leading the Cincinnati Bengals to their first win of the season with a 34-24 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
Burrow’s determination was evident as he expressed the team’s mindset of needing to secure a win. The Bengals avoided the daunting task of trying to be just the second team since the merger to make the playoffs after starting 0-4. Their offense showcased significant progress, and the defense came through with a crucial third-and-out stop late in the game, securing the much-needed victory.
The star receiver, Ja’Marr Chase, played a pivotal role in the Bengals’ success with a remarkable 63-yard touchdown catch-and-run display of toughness, quickness, and speed. Zac Taylor, the Bengals’ coach, commended Chase’s abilities, highlighting his contact balance and explosiveness that were showcased in the standout play during the game.
Zack Moss contributed with 78 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown reception, while Tee Higgins added six catches for 60 yards and drew important defensive pass interference penalties near the goal line for the Bengals. On the Panthers’ side, Andy Dalton threw for 220 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, falling short against his former team.
Carolina’s Chuba Hubbard stood out with 104 rushing yards and a touchdown, and Diontae Johnson made an impact with seven receptions for 83 yards and a score, despite battling a groin injury. Panthers’ head coach, Dave Canales, acknowledged his team’s improvement but emphasized the need to finish games to achieve success.
The Bengals’ defense, which struggled in the previous week, stepped up to create opportunities for the team. Burrow displayed exceptional command and pocket presence throughout the game, with one interception being his sole mistake. His performance, especially a play where he evaded multiple pass rushers to find Moss for a crucial gain, showcased his skill and composure under pressure.
Cincinnati’s running game improved significantly in the second half, adding 130 yards on the ground after a slow start. The Bengals capitalized on key defensive plays, including Trey Hendrickson’s hit on Dalton leading to an interception returned by Vonn Bell to set up a touchdown. Cincinnati extended their lead in the third quarter, ultimately securing the win with clutch plays on both sides of the ball.
Rookie Xavier Legette seized the opportunity in the absence of Adam Thielen, contributing six receptions for 66 yards and his first career touchdown for the Bengals. The Panthers honored Julius Peppers at halftime for his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, adding a nostalgic touch to the game.
Injury concerns arose during the game, with Hendrickson suffering a neck stinger and the Panthers losing linebackers Shaq Thompson and Josey LB Jewell to injuries in the second half. Looking ahead, the Bengals will host the Ravens while the Panthers visit the Bears in their upcoming games.
