Jake Browning led the Bengals to a thrilling 31-27 win over the Jaguars after Joe Burrow’s injury, proving Cincinnati’s resilience early in the season.
Cincinnati, OH — The Cincinnati Bengals overcame a nerve-wracking moment Sunday when quarterback Joe Burrow left the game with a toe injury, but backup Jake Browning stepped in and delivered a dramatic 31-27 comeback win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Burrow, who was sacked in the second quarter, limped briefly before collapsing on the field. Trainers helped him back to the locker room, where he was later ruled out. He left Paycor Stadium on crutches and wearing a protective boot.
Despite the setback, coach Zac Taylor praised his team’s resilience.
“They just looked each other in the eye in the second half and said, We’re going to figure out a way to win this game. And that’s exactly what they did,” Taylor said.
Browning’s Breakthrough Performance
In relief duty, Browning went 21-of-32 for 241 yards, recording three touchdowns—though he also threw three interceptions. When it mattered most, he engineered a 92-yard drive in the final minutes, capped by a gutsy 1-yard leap into the end zone with just 18 seconds left.
Browning’s mindset was simple:
“Be delusional. I had thrown three picks, but somehow we had a chance to win the game. I can’t be afraid of the fourth down in that situation.”
This wasn’t Browning’s first time stepping up for Burrow. Back in 2023, he started the last seven games after Burrow’s wrist injury. Sunday’s win showed once again that he can carry the load when needed.
Team Reaction
The Bengals’ offensive line admitted struggles protecting Burrow early in the game, with center Ted Karras calling their first-half play “horrible.” Yet the group rebounded, and Browning’s poise steadied the offense.
Receiver Mitchell Tinsley, who caught his first career touchdown, praised the backup:
“No matter what happened out there, Browning stayed poised and handled it like a professional.”
With the win, the Bengals are 2-0 for the first time since 2018, giving the team momentum and confidence—even if Burrow’s status for next week remains uncertain.
Before leaving the locker room, Burrow congratulated Browning on his performance, a small but meaningful moment that highlighted the Bengals’ unity.
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❓ FAQ
Q: What injury did Joe Burrow suffer?
A: Burrow injured his left toe after being sacked in the second quarter. He left the stadium in a walking boot and on crutches.
Q: Who replaced Burrow in the Bengals’ win?
A: Backup quarterback Jake Browning took over, throwing for 241 yards, three touchdowns, and leading a late game-winning drive.
Q: How significant is this win for Cincinnati?
A: The victory puts the Bengals at 2-0 for the first time since 2018, giving them a strong start to the season and showing depth at quarterback.
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