Bengals Snap Losing Streak with 31‑24 Victory Over Dolphins

When the Bengals stepped onto the humid Hard Rock Stadium field on Sunday, the goal was simple: break the two‑game losing streak and put a win on the board before the bye week. By the final whistle, they’d done just that, edging the winless Dolphins 31‑24 and improving to 3‑2.

The opening drive set the tone. Joe Burrow, calm as ever, found Ja’Marr Chase for a quick strike, and the Bengals led less than a minute into the contest. From there they never looked back, even though Miami kept the game respectable on the scoreboard.

Offense – B

Burrow tossed four touchdown passes to four different targets, a tidy reminder of why he’s the league’s most poise‑filled quarterback. The ground game was the unsung hero, churning out 117 rushing yards at a healthy 3.8 yards per carry. Samaje Perine and the rest of the backfield kept the Dolphins’ defense honest, which in turn gave Burrow the time he needed to hit his receivers cleanly. The most dazzling moment? A 45‑yard grab by Chase that turned a routine play into a highlight‑reel finish.

Defense – B

Jordan Battle, the young safety, stole the show with two interceptions of Malik Willis. Those picks, combined with a crucial sack in the fourth quarter, tipped the turnover battle 3‑1 in Cincinnati’s favor. Yes, Miami racked up 217 rushing yards, but the Bengals’ defensive line made enough pressure to keep the drive‑makers in check when it mattered most.

Special Teams – B

Special teams may not grab headlines, but they helped the cause. Kicker Evan McPherson extended his streak of consecutive field goals to 22, a small but meaningful piece of the puzzle. Meanwhile, wide‑out Dohnte Meyers blasted an 81‑yard kickoff return early, gifting Cincinnati great field position that set up the first score.

Coach Zac Taylor will be pleased with the balanced effort but knows there’s work to be done. The team’s next challenge comes after the bye: a showdown with the Baltimore Ravens on Oct. 25 at M&T Bank Stadium. If the Bengals can polish the rough edges—especially protecting the ball in the red zone—they’ll be a tougher opponent than the scoreline alone suggests.

For now, though, the Bengals can savor a clean win, a tidy set of grades, and a brief moment of relief before the next stretch of the season. Miami, still 0‑5, will have to regroup quickly if they’re to avoid another tough week.