Joe Burrow threw for 232 yards and two touchdowns as the Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Carolina Panthers 34-24, securing their first win of the season. The fifth-year quarterback, who acknowledged the importance of the game, was supported by Chase Brown, who rushed for 80 yards and scored two touchdowns.
Historically, teams starting 0-4 have struggled to make the playoffs, with only the 1992 Chargers managing to do so. The Bengals will avoid that fate as their offense shows signs of improvement and their defense made key stops late in the game.
Burrow highlighted the team’s urgency to secure a win, stating, “There was really no other option than to figure out how to win this game. And we got it done.” Star receiver Ja’Marr Chase contributed with three receptions for 85 yards, including a spectacular 63-yard touchdown that showcased his agility and speed.
Zack Moss added 78 total yards and a touchdown, while Tee Higgins caught six passes for 60 yards and drew several defensive pass interference penalties for Cincinnati.
For the Panthers, Andy Dalton threw for 220 yards with two touchdowns and an interception but fell to 2-2 against his former team. Chuba Hubbard performed well with 104 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Diontae Johnson caught seven passes for 83 yards and a score. Head coach Dave Canales expressed optimism about the team’s progress, stating, “I’m encouraged that our football team continues to improve, but we’ve got to finish.”
Cincinnati’s defense, previously criticized after allowing 38 points the previous week, made a strong start by stopping Carolina on four attempts from the two-yard line on the opening drive. A pivotal moment came when Dalton was intercepted by Vonn Bell, setting up Brown’s first touchdown.
At one point, the Bengals extended their lead to 28-14, but Carolina fought back with Dalton connecting on a touchdown to Johnson and another field goal, narrowing the gap. However, Cincinnati’s defense held firm, forcing a three-and-out that allowed kicker Evan McPherson to seal the victory with a field goal.
Notably, rookie Xavier Legette stepped up in the absence of Adam Thielen, catching six passes for 66 yards and scoring his first career touchdown.
The game also featured the honorary recognition of defensive end Julius Peppers, who was celebrated at halftime for being the first player drafted by the franchise to enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Injury updates revealed that Bengals’ defensive end Trey Hendrickson sustained a neck stinger and did not return, while the Panthers lost linebackers Shaq Thompson and Josey Jewell to injuries.
Next, the Bengals will host the Ravens while the Panthers travel to face the Bears.