The Cincinnati Bengals are 3-6 this season, but if they’d gotten a lucky break or two, there’s a real chance the team could be at least .500 or better.
The Bengals’ last two losses have both been in one-possession games, and it’s clear from his reaction who wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase blames for Sunday’s 47-42 Week 9 loss to the Chicago Bears.
Moments after the defeat, video emerged on social media showing Chase venting his frustration with Cincinnati’s defense, which allowed second-year quarterback Caleb Williams and the Bears to march 72 yards on four plays in just 37 seconds in the final minute of the game to score a go-ahead touchdown just seconds after the Bengals took a 42-41 lead on a 49-second long scoring drive of their own.
“One [expletive] stop,” a visibly dejected Chase shouted as he walked back to the locker room.
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Chase’s objection is well-noted.
The Bengals allowed the Bears offense to run up 576 yards, 30 first downs, convert 8 of 15 third-down attempts and both of their fourth-down conversions in addition to a 280-yard, three touchdown performance from QB Caleb Williams.
Chicago gained 304 of its 576 yards in the second half, and five of its six second-half drives ended in points. The Bears also had three touchdown drives of 72 yards or more in the second half.
Sunday marked the second straight game the Bengals allowed 500 or more yards of total offense.
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The week prior, Cincinnati surrendered 504 yards in a 39-38 loss to the New York Jets — a game in which New York rushed for 254 yards and two scores, and the Bengals blew a 31-16 lead and allowed a nine-play, 58-yard go-ahead touchdown drive in the final six minutes of the game.
At 3-6, it’s unlikely the Bengals have a shot at competing for a postseason spot with star QB Joe Burrow out until mid-December.
Star defensive players like pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson and linebacker Logan Wilson seemed unlikely to be moved before Tuesday’s 4 p.m. trade deadline, but perhaps the front office will try have a change of heart and try to recoup some draft capital for both.
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