Cincinnati opened its preseason with Joe Burrow under center for 15 snaps, marking the most summer reps he’s ever logged. He completed 9 of 10 passes for 123 yards with two touchdowns and a near-perfect 157.5 passer rating, signaling a healthy, locked-in rhythm as Cincinnati plans to ramp his workload for September. The plan to play starters early aims to build on-field timing and toughness, turning preseason reps into Week 1 stability.

Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins were active in the first half, combining for four catches and 77 yards, including a 36-yard score from Chase that showcased the duo’s chemistry. Tanner Hudson capped Cincinnati’s opening drive with a quick curl for a TD. Burrow’s performance, plus the early strides from the receiver group, provide a blueprint for how the Bengals want to translate summer reps into sustained fantasy production once the games count.

Head coach Zac Taylor stressed the value of real-game pressure, insisting Burrow will see more preseason action than ever to build familiarity and readiness. Jake Browning’s moments late showed the other side of the equation, but the overarching takeaway is clear: the Bengals want Burrow’s ramp to pay dividends in September, with the offense’s core weapons primed for a strong start.

The Cincinnati Bengals secured a crucial 19-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, keeping their playoff hopes alive with a fifth consecutive win. Despite controlling the game for most of the night, missed opportunities forced Cincinnati to protect a narrow lead in the fourth quarter. With a record of 9-8, the Bengals now await the outcomes of other games to see if they clinch the final playoff spot in the AFC.

The Steelers, already playoff-bound with a 10-7 record, ended the regular season on a disappointing four-game losing streak. Coach Mike Tomlin's team struggled offensively, failing to capitalize on key opportunities. Their playoff journey begins under a cloud of uncertainty and concern over their recent form.

In a positive development for the Cincinnati Bengals, veteran Alex Cappa has cleared concussion protocol and will return as the starting right guard against the Cleveland Browns. This is crucial as the Bengals prepare to face the formidable pass rusher Myles Garrett.

However, the team will miss star left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. due to a fibula injury, with Cody Ford stepping in to fill that role. Additionally, several players including Logan Woodside and Charle Jones will be inactive for the game.