Defensive efforts by Bengals steer them to a 17-16 triumph over Browns in initial match

Defense of the Bengals takes charge, securing a 17-16 victory over the Browns in the opening game.

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2025 September 15 . 8:17 PM

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Defense of Bengals takes charge in 17-16 victory over Browns in opening game

Defensive efforts by Bengals steer them to a 17-16 triumph over Browns in initial match

In a thrilling opening game, the Cincinnati Bengals emerged victorious against the Cleveland Browns, winning 17-16.

The decisive moment came in the fourth quarter, when Evan McPherson made a 35-yard field goal to put the Bengals up by one point. The field goal was set up after Jordan Battle intercepted a pass, marking one of two second-half turnovers for the Bengals' defense, under new coordinator Al Golden.

The Browns' offense struggled to capitalize on these turnovers, with new kicker Andre Szmyt missing a pair of second-half kicks. Szmyt was wide right on an extra point after Cedric Tillman's touchdown reception, and on a potential go-ahead 36-yard attempt.

The Bengals' offense also faced challenges in the second half, with quarterback Joe Burrow completing only 14 of 23 passes for 113 yards and a touchdown. Wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase had only two receptions for 26 yards. However, Chase Brown scored the first touchdown on the Bengals' first possession of the season since 2015, and Noah Fant contributed with four catches for 26 yards, including a 1-yard TD catch.

The Browns scored early in the second quarter, with receiver Raheim Sanders tying the game at 7-7. However, the Bengals' defense held strong, with DJ Turner intercepting the ball with 1:24 remaining in the game, securing the victory for the Bengals.

Injuries also played a part in the game, with both the Bengals' guard Lucas Patrick and the Browns' offensive tackle Jack Conklin leaving the game with calf and eye injuries, respectively, and not returning.

With this win, the Bengals will host Jacksonville next Sunday, while the Browns will play at Baltimore next Sunday. Despite the injury-plagued game, the Bengals showed resilience and determination, securing a hard-fought victory in their opening game.