CINCINNATI – The Cincinnati Bengals finally broke through for a close victory, overcoming a season marked by narrow losses. Of their eight losses this season, seven came by a single score, leaving the team frustrated and eager for a turnaround. Their 27-20 win against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday night was a much-needed boost, showcasing their resolve after a three-game losing streak.
In a decisive moment late in the game, quarterback Joe Burrow connected with Ja’Marr Chase for a 40-yard touchdown that put the Bengals ahead with just over a minute remaining. This pivotal play was set up after a misplayed punt block allowed Cincinnati to regain possession with less than two minutes left on the clock. Bengals coach Zac Taylor reflected on the victory, acknowledging a stroke of good fortune. “I guess I could say luck went our way on this one,” he stated.
Despite only having five wins this season, many of the good things that happened during the game were earned rather than simply handed to the Bengals. Burrow excelled with a performance of 33 completions on 44 attempts for 369 yards, throwing three touchdown passes but also surrendering an interception. Chase had a standout night, catching 14 passes for 177 yards and two touchdowns. Coach Taylor emphasized the importance of the win for team morale, stating, “We needed this feeling because those last three locker rooms haven’t been like this.” He added that feeling this joy would boost the team’s confidence moving forward.
Overall, the Bengals outperformed the Cowboys significantly, amassing 433 total yards compared to Dallas’s 322. Coach Taylor praised the platform of Monday Night Football as a chance for the Bengals to showcase their capabilities, vowing that every time they step on the field, they will give their best effort.
The connection between Burrow and Chase continues to flourish. Burrow expressed his intent to prioritize getting the ball to Chase, especially after missing out on key opportunities in a previous match against the Steelers. Both players are having impressive seasons, with Burrow currently leading the NFL in passing yards (3,706) and touchdowns (33). Meanwhile, Chase leads in receptions (93), receiving yards (1,319), and touchdowns (15). Burrow noted the mutual benefit of their synergy on the field, stating, “We feed off each other. We make each other better.”
On defense, Trey Hendrickson made a pivotal sack on Cooper Rush late in the game, extending his lead in the NFL with 12.5 sacks this season. However, the Bengals’ secondary remains a point of concern, as the defensive unit allowed Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle to rush for 131 yards at an average of 7.3 yards per carry. Additionally, Bengals cornerback Mike Hilton struggled, particularly on the Cowboys’ first touchdown against CeeDee Lamb, who caught six passes for 93 yards.
Injury-wise, Burrow was seen limping after being pulled down by his facemask in the fourth quarter but reassured fans afterward that he was fine, stating, “It’s nothing crazy. I just landed on it a couple of times.” He acknowledged that the knee would remain sore for a while but expressed confidence in his recovery.
Notably, Burrow’s performance marked his fourth consecutive game with at least 300 passing yards and three touchdowns, with this victory being the first in that streak. Looking ahead, the Bengals will face the Tennessee Titans next, preparing for a challenging matchup on a shortened week.