Tennessee Titans (2-2) – Cincinnati Bengals (1-3): 27-3
After two complicated defeats to start the season, and a very unconvincing victory in week 3 against the Rams, the Bengals sank against the very solid Titans. It is complicated to give Cincinnati the benefit of the doubt today: this team has a problem.
The first name on the long list of problems for the Bengals is obviously that of Joe Burrow. The quarterback, as since the start of the season, was only a shadow of himself (20/30, 165 yards). It is impossible to know if he is still bothered by his calf injury or if the problems come from elsewhere, but Burrow was in great difficulty during this meeting.
Something that seemed unthinkable in Cincinnati in recent years, the offense seemed more able to function when the ball was in Joe Mixon’s hands. The running back did what he could (14 races, 67 yards). But in a squad in such difficulty, it’s difficult to work miracles. And, to add salt to the Bengals’ wounds, Tee Higgins suffered a rib injury in the first half.
Derrick Henry is still alive
If the Bengals attack was so damaged, it is because it also came up against a Titans defense in great shape. Joe Burrow was under pressure throughout the game, and the receivers, when they caught the ball, had little room to advance further.
In attack, Tennessee relied heavily on Derrick Henry who, for the first time this season, reminded the world that he was still on top. In addition to the 122 yards and the touchdown obtained in 22 carries, he even had the luxury of throwing a touchdown pass to tight end Josh Whyle.
Ryan Tannehill (18/25, 240 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT) did what he does best: being solid without doing too much. The only downside was a nasty interception at the start of the 4th quarter, without consequence.
Cincinnati needs to wake up
A week after losing 27-3 against the Browns, the Titans beat the other team from Ohio by the same score. In such an open AFC South, all victories are good to take. If it is not the most talented, this Tennessee team will be annoying for many opponents, as it is combative and well organized. The very own of Mike Vrabel’s teams.
On the Bengals side, no more beating around the bush: the crisis is here. More than the result, which is already worrying, it is the manner that leaves something to be desired. Cincinnati was stepped on by a team that was on paper much less talented. As for Joe Burrow, calf discomfort or not, the question of his new contract, whether legitimate or futile, could arise if he continues to perform like this.
