How ’bout them Bengals? They went out there and looked like a team playing with some purpose. The Bengals just beat up on the one time 5-0 Tennessee Titans 31-20. Now that’s the Titans second loss in two weeks, losing to the Steelers 27-24 in a come-from-behind effort.
The offensive line, who was missing four players, actually protected Burrow and gave him time to make a play! What a revelation that was! And that defense that loves to give up crucial plays and scores at the end of the game to waste a lead and ruin a game, did none of that this time. I’ll admit, I had that feeling in the pit of my stomach thinking they would give up a big play and blow the game. Thankfully that didn’t happen.
And how about Gio Bernard in his second game as the lead back with Mixon sidelined with a foot injury still? He looked pretty darn good if you ask me. Two touchdowns, one receiving and one on the ground. He compiled 78 all-purpose yards on 18 touches to get those 2 touchdowns for the Bengals.
Finally, I’m not saying the Bengals will make the playoffs this year, they won’t. But, it was extremely refreshing and fun to watch the Bengals play football this past Sunday afternoon. And it gives more hope for the future. Also, if you look at the second half of the schedule after the Bengals enjoy this bye week, it seems rather favorable. If they can split with the Steelers, while unlikely even though they’ve shown they can compete with anybody, the Bengals could win 5 or 6 of the last 8 games. Like I said, it is the Bengals and that’s just wishful thinking, but just maybe it’s not. Enjoy the bye week everyone and Who-Dey!!