Bengals Escape Cleveland with Narrow 17-16 Victory in Season Opener

The Cincinnati Bengals kicked off their 2025 season with a nail-biting 17-16 victory over the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Both AFC North rivals entered the game with high hopes but very different stories to tell.

The Bengals came into 2025 with their explosive offensive core intact after successfully keeping superstars Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on new contracts. Quarterback Joe Burrow was ready to build on his exceptional 2024 campaign alongside his dynamic receiving duo. Meanwhile, the Browns faced uncertainty at quarterback with veteran Joe Flacco getting the start in a crowded quarterback room that includes rookies and other veterans competing for the position.

First Quarter: Bengals Strike First

Cincinnati wasted no time establishing their ground game. Running back Chase Brown, who emerged as the team's featured back last season, powered through the Browns' defense on a methodical 75-yard drive. Brown capped off the impressive opening drive by punching in a 5-yard touchdown run, giving the Bengals an early 7-0 lead.

The Browns responded with their own sustained drive, mixing short passes to rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. with runs from their new backfield committee featuring Dylan Sampson and Jerome Ford. However, they couldn't find the end zone and settled for field goal range as the first quarter ended.

Second Quarter: Offensive Showcase

Both teams found their rhythm in the second quarter. Cleveland finally broke through when rookie running back Raheim Sanders punched in a 1-yard touchdown to tie the game 7-7. The Browns effectively used their tight ends, with David Njoku and rookie Fannin providing reliable targets for Flacco.

Cincinnati answered right back with Burrow showing his precision passing skills. Despite facing pressure from Cleveland's defense and getting sacked three times throughout the game, Burrow connected with tight end Noah Fant for a 1-yard touchdown pass. The score gave Cincinnati a 14-7 halftime lead.

Just before the break, Cleveland added a 45-yard field goal by kicker Andre Szmyt to cut the deficit to 14-10.

Third Quarter: Browns Take the Lead

Cleveland came out firing in the third quarter. Flacco found his groove, connecting with wide receiver Cedric Tillman, who had emerged as a key target late last season. Tillman hauled in a 5-yard touchdown pass to give the Browns their first lead of the game at 16-14 (the extra point was missed).

The Bengals had opportunities but couldn't capitalize. A crucial interception by Cincinnati's Jordan Battle gave them excellent field position, but they could only manage a 35-yard field goal by Evan McPherson to regain the lead 17-16.

Fourth Quarter: Defensive Battle

The final quarter became a defensive struggle. Burrow faced intense pressure, getting sacked three consecutive times by Cleveland's defense, led by star pass rusher Myles Garrett. The Browns had multiple chances to score, but their kicker missed a crucial 36-yard field goal attempt that could have won the game.

With time running out, Cincinnati's defense made the game-winning play when DJ Turner intercepted a Flacco pass intended for Tillman, sealing the narrow victory.

Looking Ahead

This victory gives Cincinnati an important early division win and validates their decision to keep their offensive core together. Burrow completed 14 of 23 passes for 113 yards and one touchdown, while Chase Brown carried the load with 43 rushing yards and a touchdown on 21 carries.

For Cleveland, the loss highlights their quarterback situation, though Flacco showed flashes of his veteran experience. The Browns will need to find more consistency as they navigate their crowded quarterback competition.

Both teams will look to build on this performance as they prepare for their next opponents in what promises to be another competitive AFC North season.