Bengals Defense Secures 17-16 Season-Opening Win over Browns in Cleveland

The Cincinnati Bengals secured a narrow 17-16 victory over the Cleveland Browns in their 2025 season opener, thanks largely to a resilient defensive effort that forced two second-half turnovers. The Bengals' defense, operating under new coordinator Al Golden, made crucial plays despite the offense sputtering in the second half, including DJ Turner's interception with just over a minute remaining that helped seal the win. Cleveland's rookie kicker Andre Szmyt missed an extra point and a potential game-winning 36-yard field goal, which proved decisive in the outcome. Offensively, the Bengals featured Chase Brown heavily, who had 21 carries and scored a touchdown, while tight end Noah Fant led the team in receptions and caught a touchdown pass. Defensive players Logan Wilson and Jordan Battle stood out with key tackles and impactful plays, though the defense as a whole showed signs of needing improvement. The Browns outgained Cincinnati significantly and controlled time of possession, but turnovers and missed kicks were their undoing in the tightly contested "Battle of Ohio."