The Cincinnati Bengals rolled up against the Washington Commanders in a preseason matchup, and yep… the Bengals walked out with a comfy 31–17 win. Nothing too crazy, but plenty to talk about.
1. Burrow Doing Burrow Things
Joe Burrow is that guy for the Bengals. Yeah, he got knocked down a couple times, but the dude stayed chill, kept the chains moving, and got the job done. Best moment? He zipped a clean pass to Charlie Jones, who snagged it in the end zone for six points. Easy money.
2. Backups Said “Don’t Forget Us”
When Burrow grabbed the headset, Jake Browning came in and went to work. He hooked up with Mitchell Tinsley not once but twice for touchdowns. And man, Tinsley looked like he was auditioning for a bigger role — 5 catches, 73 yards, 2 TDs. That’s how you make noise in preseason.
3. Defense Got Hungry
The Bengals’ defense wasn’t just standing around. Two times they straight-up snatched the ball away (interceptions) when the Commanders messed up throws. Both turnovers turned into easy scoring chances. That’s how you flip a game.
4. Kicker Got a Cannon
Shoutout to Evan McPherson. The guy drilled a 54-yard field goal like it was nothing. That’s big-leg energy right there. Bengals fans gotta feel good seeing him back in form.
5. Commanders’ Silver Linings
Okay, so the Commanders didn’t totally flop. Rookie Jayden Daniels pulled off a slick 14-yard touchdown run no pass, just speed. And their backs Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Jacory Croskey-Merritt put in work too, with Croskey-Merritt finding the end zone. Respect where it’s due.
Big Picture
Bengals: Looking sharp, backups proving they can hang, and Burrow is still the ice-cold leader. ✅
Commanders: Some fun flashes, but overall, they’re still in “work-in-progress” mode.
