In a dramatic overtime finish, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow delivered a decisive 3-yard touchdown pass to Tee Higgins, securing a crucial 30-24 victory over the Denver Broncos on Saturday. This victory keeps the Bengals’ playoff aspirations alive, marking their first win this season against a team with a winning record.
The game, held in Cincinnati, saw the Bengals break a pattern of struggles against top teams. After a Broncos punt, Burrow capitalized on the opportunity with a 31-yard completion to Higgins, driving to the Denver 3-yard line before sealing the win with another pass to Higgins. Higgins finished the match impressively with 11 receptions for 131 yards.
Earlier, kicker Cade York had a chance to clinch the game for Cincinnati with a 33-yard field goal. However, his attempt hit the left upright, missing the goal. This setback was quickly turned around as the Bengals’ defense held firm, forcing a three-and-out from Denver, orchestrated by quarterback Bo Nix, whose third-down pass fell incomplete.
The Bengals, standing at 8-8, now face a critical game against Pittsburgh in their final regular-season match. A win, along with favorable results from other games, could see them reach the postseason for the first time since 2022. Meanwhile, the Broncos, now 9-7, missed securing an AFC wild card but have another chance as they prepare to face Kansas City.
Burrow’s performance further solidified his remarkable season, completing 39 of 49 passes for 412 yards and three touchdowns. His partnership with Ja’Marr Chase also shone, with Chase making nine receptions for 102 yards. Burrow’s consistency has been a highlight, as he continues to extend his NFL record with at least 250 passing yards and three touchdowns in eight consecutive games.
The game featured notable comebacks, such as Burrow’s 1-yard touchdown run leading to a 24-17 advantage with just over a minute left in regular time. However, Broncos’ quarterback Bo Nix responded with a 25-yard pass to Marvin Mims Jr., leveling the scores with mere seconds on the clock. Mims ended the game with eight receptions for 103 yards and two touchdowns.
Injuries impacted the game as well, with Broncos’ cornerback Damarri Mathis leaving due to a hamstring issue in the first quarter. On the Bengals’ side, right tackle Amarius Mims exited late in the first half with a hand injury.
With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, the Bengals’ victory over the Broncos was a critical step towards postseason contention. As both teams prepare for their final regular-season games, the outcomes will determine their playoff fates, showcasing the thrilling unpredictability and competitiveness of the NFL season.
Source: Local10
