In a game that the Cincinnati Bengals absolutely had to have, wide receiver Tee Higgins delivered a performance for the ages. With their playoff hopes on the line, Higgins willed his team to a thrilling 30-24 overtime victory over the Denver Broncos, catching a career-high 11 passes for 131 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Higgins, who is set to become a free agent after this season, knew the magnitude of this moment. Not only was Cincinnati’s season at stake, but this could have been his final home game wearing the Bengals’ stripes. Despite battling ankle and knee injuries throughout the week, the fifth-year pro texted head coach Zac Taylor a simple message ahead of the game: “I’m playing.”
A Warrior’s Mentality
From the opening whistle, it was clear that Higgins was on a mission. He consistently won his matchups, making tough catches in traffic and moving the chains to sustain drives. His connection with quarterback Joe Burrow was on full display, as the duo carved up Denver’s secondary all night long.
Everybody can see what kind of player he is. He elevates us to a different level when he’s playing like that and lucky to be a part of what we have going on right here.
Joe Burrow on Tee Higgins’ performance
Overcoming Adversity
Higgins’ heroics nearly went for naught when he lost a fumble in the fourth quarter, giving the Broncos a chance to seal the game. But the Bengals’ defense held strong, forcing a punt and giving their offense another opportunity. It was then that Higgins’ leadership shone through, as rookie receiver Jermaine Burton encouraged him to brush off the mistake.
Don’t worry about that. You’re going to come back and win the game for us.
Jermaine Burton to Tee Higgins after his fourth-quarter fumble
The Game-Winning Drive
With the game on the line in overtime, Higgins delivered on Burton’s prophecy. He hauled in a 31-yard strike from Burrow to set the Bengals up deep in Broncos territory, then capped off the drive with a 3-yard touchdown catch to send the home crowd into a frenzy.
- 11 receptions on 12 targets
- 131 receiving yards
- 3 touchdown catches
The impact of this win cannot be overstated for Cincinnati. Not only does it keep their playoff hopes alive heading into Week 18, but it also showcased the heart and resilience of a team that refuses to quit. And at the center of it all was Tee Higgins, a true warrior who left everything he had on the field, potentially in his final home game as a Bengal.
It’s the best feeling ever. Couldn’t go out a better way.
Tee Higgins on his game-winning touchdown in what could be his last home game as a Bengal
As the Bengals turn their attention to next week’s must-win game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, they’ll do so knowing that they have a true difference-maker in Tee Higgins. His grit, toughness, and clutch playmaking ability will be crucial as Cincinnati looks to punch their ticket to the postseason. And if this was indeed his final game at Paycor Stadium, he certainly gave the fans a memory they’ll never forget.
