NFL Analysis: Preseason Week 3 Commanders vs Bengals

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In the lead-up to the regular NFL season, the Washington Commanders demonstrated a commanding presence by clinching a 21-19 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. This triumphant feat allowed the Commanders to boast a flawless 3-0 record in the preseason. The Bengals, on the other hand, have had a challenging start, registering a scoreline of 0-2-1.

Taking center stage for the Bengals was Jake Browning. While the world awaits the decision of who will serve as Joe Burrow’s backup, and possibly take the reins as the Week 1 starter, Browning made a compelling case. In Cincinnati’s preseason climax, he showcased impeccable precision, completing 6 out of 6 attempts, amassing 42 yards, and delivering a touchdown pass to Andre Iosivas.

Contrasting Browning was Trevor Siemian, the seasoned quarterback vying for the same spot. Siemian’s performance, while generally sturdy, was tarnished by an untimely interception towards the end of the first half. He ended the game with a stat line of 14 completions out of 23 attempts, tallying up 133 yards. It’s worth noting that Joe Burrow’s calf injury has intensified the spotlight on his possible replacements, and Coach Zac Taylor remains tight-lipped about Burrow’s recovery status. Browning, despite lacking regular-season snaps, is fortified by extensive practice and preseason exposure.

The Commanders face no such quarterback uncertainty. Sam Howell is firmly positioned as their starting QB. Jacoby Brissett, the reliable veteran, is on standby as Howell’s backup. Brissett’s skill was evident in the match as he executed 10 completions from 15 attempts, covering 96 yards, and serving up a stunning 39-yard touchdown pass to the promising undrafted receiver, Mitchell Tinsley. Jake Fromm took over the reins for a substantial portion of the game, achieving 144 yards with two touchdowns, solidifying Washington’s undefeated preseason.

Given the impending regular season, both teams exercised caution. Opting to rest their key players to sidestep potential injuries, only a handful of mainstay athletes from the Commanders took to the field, including linemen Saahdiq Charles, Nick Gates, and Sam Cosmi. The Bengals followed suit, resting Joe Mixon. In his place, rookie Chase Brown, a fifth-round selection, showcased his prowess, accumulating 39 yards from 11 carries.

Some Notable Performances

Spotlighting notable performances, Cincinnati’s Evan McPherson deserves acclaim. The kicker remained unerring, converting field goals from 58 and 35 yards, maintaining his perfect preseason record.

Andrei Iosivas, the fresh-faced receiver from Princeton, grabbed attention with his six-targeted passes, converting three for a gain of 35 yards, including a touchdown. While his touchdown showcased his agility, Iosivas also displayed remarkable athleticism with some challenging receptions during the match. Iosivas’ potential might have the kind of impact on NFL Odds bettors love to analyze.

For the Commanders, Mitchell Tinsley’s performance was nothing short of impressive. From just four targets, Tinsley amassed 89 receiving yards, crowned with a touchdown. The game also highlighted the defensive prowess of Khaleke Hudson, a linebacker who not only tackled efficiently but was also adept at covering opponents.

Injury Report

However, the match was not devoid of concerns. Bengals’ defensive stalwart, Joseph Ossai, faced an early exit due to an ankle injury in the initial quarter, casting doubts about his immediate future in the games to come. Coach Taylor, while addressing the injury, remained uncertain about its gravity. Moreover, D’Ante Smith, the backup offensive tackle, encountered a shoulder injury during the second quarter. Keep an eye on these injuries coming into week one as they might affect how NFL Lines are settled.

With the preseason drawing to a close, both teams will now channel their energies and strategies toward the regular season, taking lessons from their wins, losses, and everything in between.