Joe Burrow Sets Franchise Record as Bengals Overcome Titans 37-27
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Despite their slim playoff chances, Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals delivered a dominant performance, defeating the Tennessee Titans 37-27 on Sunday. Burrow threw for 271 yards and three touchdowns, setting a new franchise record with 36 career passing touchdowns, surpassing his previous mark of 35 set in 2022.
While the victory kept Cincinnati’s playoff hopes alive, Burrow was visibly frustrated with the team’s overall performance. Speaking after the game, Burrow acknowledged the team’s playoff outlook was “very slim,” but emphasized the importance of playing at their best, regardless of the outcome. “What I’m focused on right now is playing as good as we can play myself, playing up to my standard. That’s why I was so frustrated because I didn’t feel like we did that today,” Burrow said.
The Bengals (6-8) needed the win to keep their streak of winning seasons alive, and they capitalized on a series of mistakes from the Titans. Cincinnati turned six turnovers into 24 straight points, including a 39-yard pick-six by Geno Stone. Despite the penalties and mistakes, the Bengals’ defense stood out, forcing turnovers and making crucial stops. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor praised his defense’s ability to generate turnovers, calling it “huge” in securing the victory.
The Titans (3-11) struggled throughout the game, with quarterback Will Levis being benched after throwing his NFL-high fourth pick-six of the season. Backup quarterback Mason Rudolph briefly sparked hope with a rally, but was intercepted by Josh Newton, sealing the Titans’ third straight loss. Tennessee also struggled with penalties, committing 12 for 110 yards.
In a strange twist, Bengals defensive end Sam Hubbard caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Burrow, becoming the first Bengals defensive player to score on a run or pass since 1968. However, Cincinnati’s offensive line was tested, with rookie Devin Cochran filling in at left tackle after Orlando Brown Jr.’s absence and Cody Ford’s late scratch due to illness.
Despite a rough game in terms of turnovers and penalties — with both teams combining for the NFL’s first 10-turnover game since 2007 — the Bengals maintained control to secure the win and keep their faint playoff hopes alive.
Cincinnati will now look to finish the season strong, hoping for some help in the AFC playoff race while continuing to build on their resilient performance against the Titans.
