CINCINNATI — In a remarkable display of resilience and skill, quarterback Jake Browning steered the Cincinnati Bengals to a dramatic 27-24 overtime victory against the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday. Browning, stepping up in the absence of the injured Joe Burrow, delivered a stellar performance that bolstered the Bengals’ playoff aspirations.
Trailing 17-3 late in the third quarter, Browning orchestrated an incredible comeback, leading Cincinnati to three fourth-quarter touchdowns. His efforts culminated in a tension-filled overtime, where his key plays set up Evan McPherson’s game-winning 29-yard field goal. The win improved the Bengals’ record to 8-6, enhancing their position in the playoff race.
Browning’s performance was notable for his calm demeanor under pressure. “Jake’s just so steady, you know?” coach Zac Taylor remarked. Completing 29 of 42 passes for 324 yards, Browning threw two touchdowns, both to receiver Tee Higgins, and maintained a high passer rating of 110.9 across his four starts.
Higgins was pivotal in the Bengals’ resurgence, notably with a 16-yard touchdown catch that tied the game with 39 seconds left in regulation. He finished with four catches for 61 yards, proving crucial in the clutch moments of the game.
For the Vikings, quarterback Nick Mullens, their fourth starter this season, put up a solid performance, throwing for 303 yards and two touchdowns. However, his two interceptions proved costly in the tightly contested match.
Minnesota’s Jordan Addison had an impressive outing with six catches for 111 yards and two touchdowns. Justin Jefferson also made a significant impact with seven receptions for 84 yards.
The Vikings, now 7-7, have lost three of their last four games, raising concerns about their playoff viability. “Very unfortunate,” said Minnesota coach Kevin O’Connell. “Felt like we let one slip away.”
Browning’s victory held special significance as he faced the team that had previously released him from their practice squad. Reflecting on the win, Browning said, “I screamed at the camera and said, ‘They never should have cut me.'”
The Bengals’ late-game heroics were a testament to their fighting spirit, with crucial plays in the dying moments of the game leading to their eventual victory.
Injuries:
- Bengals DT DJ Reader suffered a right leg injury, while CB DJ Ivey and WR Ja’Marr Chase also left the game with injuries.
Up Next:
- The Vikings host the Detroit Lions on December 24.
- The Bengals travel to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Dec 23.
