2025 Bengals: Grit, Setbacks, and the Fight for a Playoff Run

In a season already shaken by the loss of star quarterback Joe Burrow and a historically rough turnover night, the Cincinnati Bengals are showing grit—not as favorites, but as challengers with something to

prove. Burrow’s absence is a major blow to the team’s rhythm and leadership, and while backup QB Jake Browning has returned to the starting role, his comeback has been rocky—highlighted by a crushing 10–48 loss to the Vikings in Week 3. The question now is: can this be the turning point for a Bengals playoff run?

Preseason analysts had high hopes for the Bengals, especially with the addition of several promising defensive players. First-round pick Shemar Stewart (EDGE, Texas A&M), second-rounder Demetrius Knight Jr. (LB, South Carolina), and fourth-round pick Barrett Carter (LB, Clemson) were expected to bolster a defense that struggled last season. However, despite the upgrades, the Bengals currently rank 24th in the league, allowing an average of 363.5 yards per game—a stat that must improve if they hope to make a playoff push.

One of the biggest concerns remains the offensive line. Burrow’s injury history speaks volumes: a torn ACL in his rookie year, a Grade 2 MCL sprain in 2022, a season-ending wrist ligament tear in 2023, and now a Grade 3 turf toe injury in 2025 that could sideline him for three months—essentially the entire season. These injuries highlight the urgent need for better protection up front.

Before his latest injury, Burrow was performing well, completing 23 of 37 passes for 197 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions. But during a home game against the Jaguars, a sack left him unable to get up—signaling another devastating setback. With Browning now under center, the pressure is on to keep the team competitive until Burrow can return.

The upcoming schedule is no cakewalk. On Monday Night Football, the Bengals face the Denver Broncos and their dynamic offense led by Bo Nix. Despite Denver’s 1–2 record, they remain a tough opponent. The following week, the Bengals host the Detroit Lions—one of the most improved and dangerous teams in the NFL. After that, they travel to Green Bay to face the Packers, a challenge made tougher by the cold and hostile environment at Lambeau Field.

Browning must stay composed and lead the offense effectively through these tough matchups. If he can keep the team afloat, there’s still hope for a playoff run when Burrow returns.

Moeller student Mason Zerhusan (Class of ’26) weighed in on the team’s challenges: “That O-line needs a lot of work and has to be a big focus in next year’s draft.” When asked if Browning can succeed until Burrow is back, Mason added, “I don’t think he’ll keep a winning record until the star quarterback returns.”

Despite the setbacks, the Bengals remain a fan-favorite team with a passionate following. Burrow’s injury is a major obstacle, but it shouldn’t be a reason to give up. This team has heart, and that should show in their performance throughout the season. With resilience and determination, the Bengals still have a chance to earn the title of “Super Bowl Champions” and show the country what Cincinnati football is all about.