Browns Fall Narrowly to Bengals Following Late Interception, Missed Field Goal

The Cleveland Browns opened their 2025 NFL season with a narrow 17-16 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals despite controlling the ball and clock with several long drives. Quarterback Joe Flacco completed 31 of 45 passes for 290 yards and a touchdown but threw two costly interceptions, both coming off dropped passes by receivers Jerry Jeudy and Cedric Tillman, highlighting the Browns' challenges in securing the ball. Cleveland's defense performed well against the run, limiting the Bengals to 46 rushing yards, yet the team was undone by missed kicking opportunities, including a wide-right 36-yard field goal attempt by Andre Szmyt in the final minutes. Looking ahead, the Browns face a tough test against the Baltimore Ravens, who are favored by 12.5 points following a heavy loss to the Buffalo Bills; the Browns' defense will be challenged by the Ravens' dynamic offense led by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. Analysts emphasize that the Browns must reduce turnovers and capitalize on scoring chances to avoid self-inflicted losses. Overall, the team's strong effort was overshadowed by execution errors and missed opportunities that cost them the game.