The Bengals’ season indeed seems to be marked by frustration and missed opportunities, as their record reflects how close they’ve been in many games. Losing seven out of eight games by just one score highlights the team’s inability to execute in crucial moments. Sunday’s loss to Pittsburgh, where they allowed 520 yards and committed three turnovers, exemplifies a recurring theme: defensive struggles and untimely mistakes.
Joe Burrow’s turnovers are a concern, as is the defense’s inability to step up when needed, particularly in high-pressure divisional matchups. The Bengals clearly have offensive firepower, as their scoring output indicates, but without complementary defense or the ability to limit mistakes, those efforts are often wasted.
A 4-8 record with so many close games suggests that the team isn’t far off from turning things around but will need to address these key areas—especially tackling and ball security—to finish the season on a stronger note and build momentum for the future.
Joe Burrow’s shift in focus from playoff aspirations to simply trying to win a game or two reflects the frustrating reality of the Bengals’ season. His comments show a grounded perspective, emphasizing steady improvement rather than clinging to fading postseason hopes.
The Bengals’ defensive issues were glaring against the Steelers, as Russell Wilson picked apart the secondary for a season-high 414 yards and three touchdowns. The inability to capitalize on the momentum from a pick-six, coupled with Pittsburgh’s ability to score on seven of their last nine possessions, underscores a defense that is struggling to get off the field. Allowing the Steelers to avoid punting until the fourth quarter highlights a lack of effective adjustments and execution.
For Cincinnati to salvage any positives from this season, they’ll need to find ways to create more defensive stops and play complementary football. Burrow’s leadership will remain crucial in maintaining morale and focus as the team tries to finish the season with pride and growth.
The Bengals’ season epitomizes the frustration of having a high-powered offense overshadowed by defensive shortcomings. Joe Burrow continues to put up impressive numbers, including his 309-yard, three-touchdown performance against the Steelers, but his turnovers—two fumbles and an interception—proved costly in Sunday’s 44-38 loss. Burrow’s comments reflect a focus on immediate improvement rather than distant playoff aspirations, which is a pragmatic outlook given the team’s struggles.
What’s Working
- Joe Burrow’s performance: Despite turnovers, Burrow has been a bright spot. His accuracy (28-for-38) and ability to produce in high-pressure moments keep the Bengals competitive.
- Ja’Marr Chase’s dominance: Chase continues to excel, with his league-leading 13 touchdown receptions providing a consistent spark for the offense.
What Needs Help
- Defensive woes: Allowing 520 yards to Pittsburgh, including Russell Wilson’s season-high 414 passing yards, underscores persistent tackling issues and an inability to contain opposing offenses. Missing key defenders like Logan Wilson and Sheldon Rankins certainly didn’t help, but the unit’s struggles are systemic.
- Late-game execution: Despite scoring over 33 points in multiple games, Cincinnati has become the first team to lose four such contests in a single season. The defense’s inability to step up in crucial moments is a significant reason for these heartbreaking losses.
- Turnover woes: Burrow’s two fumbles and interception on Sunday were critical errors. While his overall play remains stellar, these mistakes have compounded the team’s struggles.
Looking Ahead
The Bengals need to focus on defensive improvements, particularly tackling and situational awareness, while minimizing turnovers on offense. With the playoffs likely out of reach, the remaining games are an opportunity to solidify a foundation for 2025, recalibrate the defense, and protect their franchise quarterback.
Stock Up
RB Chase Brown: The second-year back has stepped up admirably in the absence of Zack Moss, delivering consistent performances in recent weeks. Against the Steelers, Brown totaled 100 all-purpose yards, including 70 rushing yards and a touchdown, along with three receptions for 30 yards. His 677 rushing yards and six touchdowns this season highlight his growth into a dependable option for the Bengals. Joe Burrow’s praise for Brown’s work ethic and improvement in both running and pass protection underscores his value to the team moving forward.
Stock Down
Coaching Staff: The Bengals’ coaching decisions and defensive preparation are under scrutiny, especially after a dismal performance following a bye week. Allowing over 500 yards for the second time this season signals deeper issues with scheme and execution. Zac Taylor’s admission that the team hasn’t “earned the win” points to systemic failures in getting the defense ready for critical divisional matchups. With the team sitting at 4-8, changes may need to be considered to address these recurring problems.
Final Thoughts
Chase Brown’s emergence is one of the few bright spots in a frustrating season for Cincinnati, but the coaching staff and defense must improve dramatically to salvage any positives from 2024. The Bengals have the offensive pieces to compete but are consistently undone by poor preparation and execution on the other side of the ball.
Injuries
Thankfully for the Bengals, no new injuries were reported following their game against the Steelers. Staying healthy will be key as they navigate the rest of the season and try to improve their record.
Key Number
30.3: That’s the Bengals’ average points per game against teams with a .500 or better record this season—a stat that highlights the offense’s productivity. However, their 0-7 record in those games underscores their inability to close out high-scoring contests, largely due to defensive struggles and costly mistakes.
Next Steps
The Bengals will look to regroup and snap their losing streak when they face the Dallas Cowboys (5-7) on Monday night. This matchup offers an opportunity for Cincinnati to build momentum against a team also searching for consistency. Improving defensive performance and limiting turnovers will be crucial if the Bengals hope to turn things around.
