Bengals Fall 48-10, Now 2-1; Turnovers Plague Team

The Cincinnati Bengals are reeling after Joe Burrow’s injury and a franchise‑worst 48-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings that leaves them 2-1 and headed to Monday’s game in Denver. Backup Jake Browning has thrown five interceptions since replacing Burrow and the team leads the NFL with eight turnovers, forcing Browning to try to turn damaging plays into safer incompletions. Cincinnati’s offense has been pummeled by pressure (26 of 63 dropbacks pressured, a 41.3% rate), has allowed 10 sacks and averages a league‑low 2.4 yards per carry, exacerbating the turnover problem. Coach Zac Taylor said the season is long and emphasized open dialogue with underperforming playmakers as the team searches for answers. Analysts have speculated about pursuing a veteran like Kirk Cousins, but his large contract and the team’s familiarity with Browning make such a move unlikely at this point.