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

The Cincinnati Bengals started their 2025 season with a close win, beating the Cleveland Browns 17-16 at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Both AFC North rivals had high hopes but faced different situations.

The Bengals entered 2025 with their strong offensive team, keeping superstars Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on new contracts. Quarterback Joe Burrow was ready to build on his great 2024 season with his talented receivers. Meanwhile, the Browns were uncertain at quarterback. Veteran Joe Flacco started the game, after competing with rookies and other veterans for the position.

First Quarter: Bengals Strike First

Cincinnati quickly showed their strong running game. Running back Chase Brown, who was the main back last season, ran through the Browns' defense on a long 75-yard drive. Brown finished the drive with a 5-yard touchdown run, giving the Bengals a 7-0 lead early in the game.

The Browns responded with their own drive. They used short passes to rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. and runs from their new group of running backs, Dylan Sampson and Jerome Ford. However, they couldn't score a touchdown and ended the first quarter in field goal range.

Second Quarter: Offensive Showcase

In the second quarter, both teams found their rhythm. Cleveland finally scored when rookie running back Raheim Sanders ran in a 1-yard touchdown to tie the game 7-7. The Browns used their tight ends well, with David Njoku and rookie Fannin being reliable targets for Flacco.

Cincinnati answered quickly. Burrow showed off his accurate passing. Even though he faced pressure and got sacked three times, Burrow threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Noah Fant. This put Cincinnati ahead 14-7 at halftime.

Right before halftime, Cleveland got a 45-yard field goal from kicker Andre Szmyt, bringing the score to 14-10.

Third Quarter: Browns Take the Lead

The third quarter started with Cleveland on the attack. Flacco connected with wide receiver Cedric Tillman, who had become a key target late last season. Tillman caught a 5-yard touchdown pass, giving the Browns their first lead of the game at 16-14 (they missed the extra point).

The Bengals had chances to score but didn't take advantage. A big interception by Cincinnati's Jordan Battle gave them good field position, but they only managed a 35-yard field goal by Evan McPherson to lead 17-16.

Fourth Quarter: Defensive Battle

The final quarter turned into a defensive struggle. Burrow faced strong pressure and was sacked three times in a row by Cleveland's defense, led by star pass rusher Myles Garrett. The Browns had several chances to score, but their kicker missed a critical 36-yard field goal that could have won the game.

As time ran out, Cincinnati's defense made the game-winning play when DJ Turner intercepted a Flacco pass meant for Tillman, sealing their narrow victory.

Looking Ahead

This win gives Cincinnati an important early victory in their division and proves that keeping their offensive team together was a good choice. Burrow completed 14 of 23 passes for 113 yards and one touchdown, while Chase Brown had 43 rushing yards and a touchdown on 21 carries.

For Cleveland, the loss showed their need for a more stable quarterback situation, though Flacco did show his experience. The Browns will need to be more consistent as they continue with their crowded quarterback competition.

Both teams will look to improve as they get ready for their next games in what should be another exciting AFC North season.