The Bengals thought their 2023 season went down the drain when QB Joe Burrow was dominated out for the remainder of the season. Nonetheless, with the emergence of backup QB Jake Browning, gamers appear to have a bit of further pep of their step, particularly WR Ja’Marr Chase.
It definitely took a transition interval when switching between the 2 quarterbacks, however Chase says there’s a bit of extra smiling occurring within the locker room now.
“Jake’s extra playful than Burrow,” Chase told reporters. “Jake’s going to smile with you want on the common. Joe’s simply going to stroll previous you, take a look at you after which hold going. He is simply not going to smile on a regular basis. Joe’s simply extra tunnel-visioned than Jake.”
After all, that does not imply Chase would take Browning over Burrow, who has led Cincinnati to back-to-back AFC title video games and a Tremendous Bowl look. But it surely feels as if no person must be counting out the Bengals fairly but.
The 27-year-old has accomplished 50-of-61 for 629 yards, three touchdowns and only one interception the previous two weeks, and he’s absolutely trying to keep sizzling in opposition to the Vikings (7-6) come Saturday.
This Bengals workforce has a distinct really feel in comparison with earlier years when many feared them. Now they appear to be the underdogs with a assured Browning main the way in which, and which will simply make them extra harmful.
Cincinnati’s remaining schedule will not be simple as its remaining 4 opponents mix for a 30-22 report. However the workforce has already defeated two playoff groups (8-5 Jaguars and 7-6 Colts) within the final two weeks, proving it could actually nonetheless grasp with anybody.
It’ll all rely on if Browning can proceed enjoying at a excessive stage for the remainder of the season. If he can, the Bengals might catch the remainder of the league without warning.