The Cincinnati Bengals’ season hit another rough patch with a heartbreaking 41-38 overtime loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Now sitting at 1-4, the Bengals squandered a 10-point fourth-quarter lead, despite a spectacular showing from quarterback Joe Burrow. His performance, one of the best this season, wasn’t enough to secure the win, and wide receiver Tee Higgins didn’t shy away from pointing out what went wrong.
Tee Higgins called for a more aggressive approach, especially on those crucial first and second downs before the missed field goal. “Personally, I think we should have gone a little bit more aggressive… just to try to get Evan in better field goal range. He makes those from that deep. I’m not putting it on him at all. It’s a team effort. But we could’ve done a better job getting him closer.”
Higgins’ comments are part of a broader sentiment within the Bengals’ camp—conservatism cost them dearly. While Burrow and fellow receiver Ja’Marr Chase put up historic numbers, including Chase’s 70-yard touchdown reception and Burrow’s climb in the rankings for long touchdown passes, the team’s cautious play-calling in key moments stood out.
Bengals WRs Tee Higgins, Ja’Marr Chase on the lack of aggression by the offense in overtime, pic.twitter.com/mY9UZOszv4
— Ben Baby (@Ben_Baby) October 6, 2024
Missed opportunity cost Bengals their match
Burrow’s 30-of-39 completions for 392 yards, five touchdowns, and an interception gave Cincinnati multiple leads—24-14 in the third quarter, and 38-28 late in the fourth. But when it mattered most, the Bengals faltered.
After Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson fumbled a snap, instead of capitalizing, the Bengals managed only three yards in three plays, leading to a 53-yard field goal attempt. Kicker Evan McPherson missed the kick after an imperfect snap, and the Ravens took advantage of the blunder, driving down the field for the game-winning score.
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Head coach Zach Taylor defended the play-calling, but with star players like Higgins and Chase voicing their concerns, it’s clear the Bengals’ management may need to reassess their late-game strategies. The team isn’t lacking in talent—Burrow and Chase continue to break records, and the chemistry between them rivals the best in the league. But without capitalizing on critical opportunities, talent alone won’t turn the season around.
Looking ahead, the Bengals face the New York Giants, who are fresh off an upset win over the Seattle Seahawks. It’s a chance for Cincinnati to bounce back, but as Higgins pointed out, they’ll need to play with more aggression and seize every opportunity if they hope to turn their season around. For a team loaded with potential, playing it safe is no longer an option.