Nevertheless, the Bengals are 1-0. Quarterback Joe Burrow, who led the NFL in passing yards and touchdown passes in 2024, had one TD pass Sunday and just 113 yards, his lowest total in a win in his NFL career. Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase combined for less than 60 receiving yards. "We stole one today," Burrow told reporters after the game.

On a day when Joe Burrow and the high-powered offense struggled against the Cleveland Browns, it was the defense that came up big and propelled the Bengals to their first Week 1 victory since 2021. Turner and Jordan Battle came up with two huge interceptions in the second half as Cincinnati held on for a 17-16 victory on Sunday.