Mixed Results for Bengals as Burrow and Tinsley Shine in Preseason Win

The Cincinnati Bengals secured a 31-17 victory over the Washington Commanders in their second preseason game, but the win came with a mix of both promising signs and lingering concerns. While the offense ultimately found its rhythm, quarterback Joe Burrow's performance was far from flawless, while an unheralded receiver stole the show and the Commanders' dynamic rookie quarterback offered a tantalizing glimpse of the future.

Joe Burrow's night was a study in contrasts. After an impressive preseason debut against the Eagles, the franchise quarterback faced more resistance from the Commanders' defense. He led two touchdown drives over three series, but the journey was anything but smooth. Burrow completed nine of 14 passes for a modest 62 yards, and the pocket seemed far from secure. He was taken down for two sacks, one of which resulted in a fumble recovered by the Bengals after a Washington penalty. While he did cap his night with a four-yard touchdown pass to Charlie Jones, the offensive struggles highlighted the need for the unit to find its footing before the regular season kicks off.

In contrast to Burrow’s bumpy ride, Washington's rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels provided a spark of excitement in his 2025 preseason debut. In a brief but explosive cameo, Daniels led the Commanders on a blistering four-play, 74-yard touchdown drive. He didn't even attempt a pass, instead showcasing his elite rushing ability, capping the series with a spectacular 14-yard touchdown run that left multiple Bengals defenders in his wake. While a single drive is hardly a full picture, Daniels' electrifying presence was a clear sign that Washington’s future is in good hands, especially with their ground game, which exploded for 106 yards on just six carries across their first two drives.

Perhaps the most surprising standout of the night was Bengals' wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley. The undrafted free agent, a former Commander, put on a show against his old team, finishing the first half with five catches for 73 yards and two acrobatic touchdowns from backup quarterback Jake Browning. Tinsley’s highlight-reel catches, including a leaping grab and a toe-tapping touchdown, showcased a skill set that could land him a spot on the already loaded Cincinnati roster. With veterans Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins leading the way, Tinsley's breakout performance adds another intriguing layer to an offense that is rarely short on weapons.

While the Bengals' offense is expected to be a force, their defense remains a point of concern. After giving up 34 points to the Eagles in their preseason opener, the unit looked porous again early against the Commanders. Washington's rushing attack, led by Chris Rodriguez Jr. and rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, consistently gashed the Bengals' front. While the defense eventually settled down and forced two interceptions in the second half, the early struggles are a clear area for improvement as the team prepares for the regular season.