The Cincinnati Bengals’ shocking Week 1 loss to the New England Patriots exposed key weaknesses and raised concerns about their 2024 season. This unexpected defeat, orchestrated by new Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo, leaves many questioning Cincinnati’s ability to rebound.
The Bengals’ disappointing performance against a supposedly weaker Patriots team, led by Jacoby Brissett, revealed critical areas needing immediate attention. Let’s delve into three crucial takeaways from this upset.
The Absence of Joe Mixon’s Impact
The Bengals’ decision to release running back Joe Mixon proved costly in Week 1. Mixon’s immediate success with the Houston Texans, rushing for 159 yards and a touchdown, highlighted the void in Cincinnati’s running game. While Zack Moss managed a respectable 44 yards and a touchdown on nine carries, he lacked the game-changing impact Mixon consistently delivered. This disparity in production underscores the Bengals’ need for a more dominant rushing attack. Mixon’s performance served as a stark reminder of his value, raising questions about the Bengals’ offseason strategy.
Ja’Marr Chase’s Holdout Hangover
Ja’Marr Chase’s extended holdout leading up to Week 1 seemingly affected his on-field performance. His six receptions for 62 yards and no touchdowns fell short of expectations. While his absence from training camp didn’t force him to miss game time, the lack of practice likely contributed to his slow start. It’s reasonable to expect Chase to regain his form as the season progresses, but his Week 1 performance suggests the holdout had a tangible impact.
Lingering Concerns about Joe Burrow’s Wrist
Joe Burrow’s wrist injury, which sidelined him for a significant portion of the 2023 season, remains a concern. The Bengals’ anemic 10-point performance against the Patriots raised questions about Burrow’s full recovery. While his completion percentage (21 of 29) was solid, his total passing yards (164) were alarmingly low for a quarterback capable of 500-yard games. While the Patriots’ historically strong defense and Coach Mayo’s strategic schemes likely contributed to Burrow’s struggles, his performance fueled concerns about his long-term health and ability to lead the Bengals’ offense.
The Path Forward for Cincinnati
The Bengals’ Week 1 loss serves as a wake-up call. Addressing the running game deficiency, allowing Ja’Marr Chase to fully integrate back into the offense, and monitoring Joe Burrow’s health are crucial for a successful season. The Bengals face an uphill battle, but addressing these key issues will determine their ability to contend in the AFC North. The coming weeks will reveal whether this loss was a mere stumble or a sign of deeper problems within the team.
