Key Takeaways from the Bengals’ 31-17 Win Over the Commanders

The preseason Week 2 matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Washington Commanders offered plenty of storylines, from the return of star quarterbacks to standout performances from potential roster gems. In the end, the Bengals walked away with a 31-17 victory, but the game raised just as many questions as it answered for both teams as they prepare for the 2025 season.

Joe Burrow’s Preseason Struggles Offer a Glimpse into Reality

For the Bengals, all eyes were on quarterback Joe Burrow, who played a significant portion of the game in an effort to avoid the team’s trademark slow starts to the regular season. While he ultimately led two touchdown drives, his performance was far from flawless.

Burrow finished the night completing 9 of 14 passes for just 62 yards, and he was sacked a concerning two times, including a scary play where he fumbled. The offense struggled to move the ball without the help of multiple Washington penalties. While Burrow connected with Charlie Jones for a 4-yard touchdown to end his night, the overall picture was messy. The performance highlighted that even with a high-powered offense, the Bengals still face challenges, particularly with their offensive line.

Jayden Daniels’ Brief, Explosive Debut

Washington’s highly anticipated franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels made his 2025 preseason debut in a brief but electrifying cameo. On his only series, Daniels led a lightning-fast four-play, 74-yard touchdown drive. He didn’t even attempt a pass, instead capping the drive with a sensational 14-yard touchdown run where he dodged defenders and broke a tackle.

The play confirmed the immense potential of Daniels, even as the Commanders continue to navigate roster uncertainties, including the absence of star receiver Terry McLaurin and trade rumors swirling around running back Brian Robinson. Daniels’ short but spectacular performance was a much-needed morale boost for a team that’s had a turbulent offseason.

Wide Receiver Mitchell Tinsley Steals the Show

While the headlines went to the quarterbacks, undrafted free agent Mitchell Tinsley was the undisputed star of the night. The wide receiver, a former Commander, returned to Washington and had a breakout performance, hauling in five catches for 73 yards and two touchdowns in the first half alone.

Both of Tinsley’s touchdowns came from backup quarterback Jake Browning, and they showcased his fantastic hands and leaping ability. His highlight-reel catches have certainly complicated the Bengals’ already-loaded wide receiver room, which features stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Tinsley’s strong showing gives the coaching staff a difficult decision to make, but as Joe Burrow said, you can never have too many weapons.

Commanders’ Rushing Attack Shines Without Brian Robinson

With Brian Robinson a healthy scratch amidst trade speculation, the Commanders’ revamped rushing attack showed its impressive depth. Newcomer Deebo Samuel started the game with a 19-yard jet sweep, followed by a 40-yard dash from Chris Rodriguez Jr. The backfield later saw a 27-yard touchdown run from rookie Bill Croskey-Merritt.

The Commanders’ run game looked potent, racking up 106 yards and 12 points on just six carries across the first two drives. While the performance came against a Bengals defense that looked vulnerable, it was a promising sign for a Washington team that could rely on a committee approach with new talent like Rodriguez, Croskey-Merritt, and veteran Austin Ekeler.