Cincinnati Bengals Face a Steep Road After Loss to Commanders

The Cincinnati Bengals endured a tough 38-33 loss to the Washington Commanders, marking their third consecutive defeat. The game, held on Monday Night Football, saw rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels shine, leading his team with impressive performance.

Daniels, drafted second overall in 2024, was the star of the night, completing 21 of 23 passes for 254 yards. He also showcased his versatility by rushing for 39 yards and scoring three touchdowns. His remarkable ability to execute under pressure proved to be the deciding factor in the game. A 55-yard pass to Terry McLaurin was one of the standout moments, setting up a touchdown and ultimately sealing the Commanders' victory with a game-winning 27-yard pass.

On the other side, the Bengals, now at 0-3, struggled to find consistency. While Joe Burrow and his connection with Ja’Marr Chase brought the team back within striking distance, their efforts were not enough to secure the win. Despite a late surge, which saw Burrow completing crucial passes to Andrei Iosivas and Chase, the Bengals couldn’t recover from their slow start.

Washington, now 2-1, showcased an effective offense, scoring on five of their six drives, while Cincinnati’s defense struggled to keep pace. The Commanders' offensive dominance, paired with the Bengals' inability to convert in the red zone, highlighted the mismatch.

As the Bengals move forward, their prospects of competing for the AFC title appear dim, particularly considering the historical challenges faced by teams that begin the season with three straight losses. Meanwhile, the Commanders will need to address their defense, especially their vulnerability in stopping the run, before their next game against the Arizona Cardinals.