Joe Burrow threw for 232 yards and two touchdowns as the Cincinnati Bengals secured their first victory of the season, defeating the Carolina Panthers 34-24 on Sunday in Charlotte. Burrow’s strong performance came after the Bengals started the season with three losses, emphasizing the urgency to win this game.
Chase Brown contributed significantly with 80 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Ja’Marr Chase was also instrumental, catching three passes for 85 yards, which included an impressive 63-yard touchdown catch that showcased his blend of toughness and speed. Bengals coach Zac Taylor praised Chase’s remarkable play, highlighting his physicality and explosiveness.
Zack Moss added 78 total yards and a touchdown, while Tee Higgins caught six passes for 60 yards and drew two crucial defensive penalties.
Carolina’s Andy Dalton threw for 220 yards with two touchdowns and an interception but fell short against his former team. The Panthers’ running back Chuba Hubbard rushed for 104 yards and a touchdown, and wide receiver Diontae Johnson had seven receptions for 83 yards and a touchdown.
First-year Panthers head coach Dave Canales expressed optimism about the team’s improvement, despite their ongoing struggles, particularly on defense, where they have allowed the most points in the league.
Burrow’s performance included evading pass rushers and showing impressive mobility in the pocket. He encountered a minor injury but dismissed it as not serious. The Bengals also revived their ground game, rushing for 130 yards in the second half after a disappointing first half.
The game began with a strong defensive effort from the Bengals, who stopped the Panthers on four attempts from the 2-yard line during the first drive. Cincinnati extended their lead to 28-14 early in the third quarter with another touchdown from Brown.
Despite attempts from the Panthers to close the gap, Cincinnati’s defense held firm, forcing a crucial three-and-out late in the game. Jake McPherson effectively sealed the game with a 46-yard field goal.
Emerging star Xavier Legette, filling in for the injured Adam Thielen, caught six passes for 66 yards and scored his first career touchdown, celebrated with a horse-riding imitation.
The Panthers honored defensive end Julius Peppers at halftime for his recent induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Injury updates saw Hendrickson exit with a neck stinger, while the Panthers lost linebackers Shaq Thompson and Josey Jewell to injuries in the second half.
Looking ahead, the Bengals will host the Ravens next Sunday, while the Panthers will travel to face the Bears.