The Cincinnati Bengals’ fight didn’t end when the clock hit zero — it continued at the postgame podium.
After Sunday’s 37–24 loss to the Detroit Lions, head coach Zac Taylor was the first to speak up, admitting the team’s offensive struggles were on him.
“That’s my job. I’ve got to be better for this football team,” Taylor said.
But QB Jake Browning didn’t let his coach take the fall alone. After throwing three interceptions — for the second time in four games — Browning owned up to his mistakes.
“I appreciate Coach saying that, but this one’s on me,” Browning said. “I’ve got to play better. I can’t keep putting the team in bad spots. I need to stop throwing picks — plain and simple.”
Two of Browning’s turnovers came deep in Bengals territory, gifting Detroit short fields that quickly turned into touchdowns. By halftime, the Lions had jumped out to a 28–3 lead, and Paycor Stadium was filled with frustration.
“I tried to force things that weren’t there,” Browning said. “It was bad football from me. I let the team down and I let the fans down.”
Even though the Bengals finally showed life with 21 fourth-quarter points, it was too little, too late. Browning connected with Ja’Marr Chase for a 15-yard TD, but he wasn’t in the mood to celebrate.
“I appreciate you trying to talk about a good throw,” he said, “but I didn’t make enough of them today. That’s why we lost.”
As boos echoed through Paycor, Browning’s disappointment was obvious. Still, the 29-year-old vowed to bounce back.
“I’m not going to fold. I’ll be in here all week trying to get better. Whether it improves or not, it won’t be because of lack of effort,” he promised.
Bengals’ Offensive Woes by the Numbers:
19 straight drives without a touchdown before Browning hit Chase late in the fourth.
Outscored 69–9 in the first halves of the last three games.
Dead last in rushing — just 57 yards per game.
Browning led the team with 31 rushing yards vs. Detroit.
Only 18 offensive snaps this season with a lead — and they’ve gained just two total yards during them.
Bengals fans — what are your thoughts on Browning’s performance? Should Zac Taylor keep him starting next week against Green Bay?
