Humiliating is the perfect word to describe the Bengal’s four consecutive losses to the Cleveland Browns. 

In four battles the Bengals were overwhelmed by adversity, in the face of Myles Garrett, losing disgracefully. 

This week the Bengals, especially the defense, came to play. They were superlatively victorious against the Browns, scoring 23-10 in the bout. 

This brings their season record to 1-1 against the Browns and 2-3 in divisional games. The Bengals still have one game remaining against the Baltimore Ravens in week 18. 

The Bengal’s defense played a crucial role in the game. They had a critical stop at the end of the game, shutting down any hopes of a late Browns comeback. The defense was also putting up constant pressure, holding their offense to only 10 points and grabbing an interception  (Jessie Bates III). 

The defensive line also played with their heads held high. They held Nick Chubb to only 34 yards on 14 carries, well below his average of 92.3 yards per game. The line also provided two sacks (Sam Hubbard with one sack and 0.5 sacks for Trey Hendrickson and Von Bell). 

The offense started the game off without a sense of urgency. Joe Burrow was missing passes left and right and the offense struggled to gain first downs. 

They were able to muster up two touchdowns in the first half after several unsuccessful drives, thanks to some Browns penalties. Kicker Evan McPherson missed a point-after attempt. 

In the second half, Joe Burrow and his offense began to loosen their gears and started gaining consecutive first downs. On a quick pass to Jamar Chase, the Bengals recorded another touchdown, pushing the lead to 20-10. 

The Bengals failed to pick up any more touchdowns, however, were successful on a field goal attempt. 

The Bengals won the game 23-10. 

Key players for the Bengals were Joe Burrow, Samaje Perine, Jamar Chase, Joe Mixon, Sam Hubbard, Jessie Bates, and Trey Hendrickson.

Next, the Bengals travel to Tampa to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, December 18th.