The Cincinnati Bengals finally found paydirt against the Denver Broncos on Saturday night, courtesy of the reliable connection between quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Tee Higgins. Burrow hit Higgins on a quick 2-yard strike for a touchdown with 1:49 remaining in the first half to put the Bengals ahead 7-3.
It was a much-needed score for a Bengals offense that had moved the ball effectively on its first two possessions but failed to put any points on the board. An 11-play drive to open the game stalled out at the Broncos 22-yard line after Burrow’s fourth down pass fell incomplete. Cincinnati then marched 17 plays on the ensuing possession, reaching the Broncos 2-yard line before once again turning it over on downs.
But Burrow and Higgins made sure the third time was the charm. Taking over with great field position after a Broncos punt, Burrow engineered an efficient 8-play, 58-yard drive that he capped off with the short TD toss to Higgins on 2nd-and-goal.
The scoring connection marked a significant individual achievement for Burrow as well. The third-year quarterback has now thrown 40 touchdown passes on the season, extending his own single-season franchise record.
Bengals Breathe Sigh of Relief
For a Bengals squad with high aspirations this season, it was crucial to cash in a touchdown after the two earlier missed opportunities. Falling behind against a stout Broncos defense would have made for a tense second half.
“We were moving the ball well all half, but you have to finish drives in this league, especially against a good defense like that. I have a lot of trust in Tee and he ran a great route to get open on that touchdown. We needed that one.”
– Joe Burrow on the touchdown drive
The Bengals will get the ball to start the second half with a chance to extend their narrow 7-3 advantage. With the way Burrow and the offense are clicking now, they’ll aim to string together a few more scoring drives to gain separation on the scoreboard.
Meanwhile, the Broncos defense will need to regroup in the locker room and find answers for the Bengals’ balanced attack. They held firm in the red zone early but finally bent on that last possession.
Key Factors to Watch in Second Half
- Establishing the run – The Bengals found some success on the ground in the first half and will look to wear down the Broncos front.
- Winning the turnover battle – In a tight defensive struggle, one big takeaway could swing momentum decisively.
- Unleashing the deep passing game – Burrow and his speedy receivers are always a threat to strike quickly over the top.
The stage is set for an intense second half in this AFC showdown. The Bengals have their noses in front for now thanks to Burrow and Higgins. But there is plenty of football left to be played. Buckle up!
