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Once a marquee matchup circled on every NFL fan's calendar, the Week 14 "Monday Night Football" clash between the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys has taken on a much different tone. Both teams entered the season with playoff aspirations, but injuries and inconsistent performances have left them scrambling to keep slim postseason hopes alive.
The Bengals (4-8) find themselves in third place in the AFC North, reeling from a three-game losing streak. Their season has been a tale of missed opportunities and narrow defeats. Even if Cincinnati wins out and finishes 9-8, they no longer control their destiny. The Bengals would need a series of favorable outcomes across the league to secure a wildcard spot--a tall order for a team struggling to find its rhythm.
On the other sideline, the Cowboys (5-7) have endured their own rollercoaster campaign. After a promising 3-2 start, Dallas stumbled through a five-game losing streak and lost starting quarterback Dak Prescott to a hamstring injury. Backup quarterbacks have stepped in irably in recent weeks, helping the Cowboys notch consecutive wins over division rivals. Now sitting third in the NFC East, Dallas faces a similarly steep climb to the playoffs. Winning their final five games would give them a 10-7 record, but their playoff hopes also hinge on favorable outcomes in a tightly contested NFC.
As these two teams collide under the primetime lights, it's a battle not just for victory, but for a lifeline. While the odds are long, both the Bengals and Cowboys know that a loss would effectively seal their fate. For fans, it's a reminder that even amidst disappointing seasons, the NFL's unpredictability can still deliver drama.
Cowboys vs. Bengals Odds, Preview, and Key Players for Monday Night Football
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for Jake Ferguson.
Ryan Rehkow punts for 13 yards to Cin42. Amani Oruwariye - no return. FUMBLE, recovered by Cin (Maema Njongmeta).
Joe Burrow to the right to Chase Brown for 15 yards to the Cin47. Tackled by Donovan Wilson.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for Jake Ferguson.
Cowboys timeout.
Cooper Rush to the middle to Jake Ferguson for 8 yards to the Dal48. Tackled by DJ Ivey.
Cowboys timeout.
Cooper Rush to the middle to Jake Ferguson for 8 yards to the Dal48.
Cowboys timeout.
Cooper Rush sacked at Dal40 for a loss of 8 yards by Trey Hendrickson.
Cooper Rush rush to the middle for 3 yards to the Dal48. Tackled by Myles Murphy.
Cowboys timeout.
Cooper Rush to the right to CeeDee Lamb for 15 yards to the Dal45.
Cade York kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
Cade York extra point is GOOD.
Joe Burrow to the right to Ja'Marr Chase for 40 yards for a TOUCHDOWN.
Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase delivered another signature moment, connecting on a 40-yard touchdown to ignite the Bengals' offense. Chase streaked down the right side, hauling in the deep throw to electrify Cincinnati fans. Cade York added the extra point, putting the Bengals firmly back in the fight with a perfectly executed play.
Chase Brown rush to the middle for 10 yards to the Dal40.
Joe Burrow to the left to Andrei Iosivas for 7 yards to the Cin50.
Ryan Rehkow punt blocked by Nick Vigil. Returned by Amani Oruwariye to the Cin43. FUMBLE, recovered by Cin (Maema Njongmeta).
Two Minute Warning.
Joe Burrow sacked at Cin29 for a loss of 8 yards.
Joe Burrow to the middle to Chase Brown for 6 yards to the Cin36.
Penalty: Holding on Bengals (Cody Ford) -10 yards.
Penalty: Holding on Bengals (Andrei Iosivas) -10 yards.
Chase Brown rush to the right for 3 yards to the Cin49.
Penalty: Interference on Cowboys (Jourdan Lewis) 19 yards.
Joe Burrow to the left to Andrei Iosivas for 5 yards to the Cin35.
Joe Burrow to the left to Ja'Marr Chase for 16 yards to the Cin30.
Bryan Anger punts for 48 yards to Cin18. Isaiah Williams return for 6 yards to Cin24. Penalty: Illegal Block on Bengals (Tanner Hudson) -10 yards.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the middle intended for KaVontae Turpin.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the left intended for Brandin Cooks.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the left intended for Jake Ferguson.
Rico Dowdle rush to the middle for 14 yards to the Dal34.
Ryan Rehkow punts for 62 yards to Dal0. Touchback.
Penalty: Delay of Game on Bengals -5 yards.
Joe Burrow sacked at Cin40 for a loss of 6 yards. FUMBLE, recovered by Cin (Tanner Hudson).
Bengals Dodge Disaster as Burrow Fumbles but Hudson Recovers
Joe Burrow was sacked at the Cincinnati 40-yard line for a six-yard loss, resulting in a fumble. Fortunately for the Bengals, Tanner Hudson was quick to recover the loose ball, averting a turnover. The play, however, stalls Cincinnati's drive as they struggle to maintain momentum in this tightly contested matchup.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the left intended for Andrei Iosivas.
Chase Brown rush to the right for a loss of 3 yards to the Cin46.
Joe Burrow to the middle to Tanner Hudson for 19 yards to the Cin49.
Chase Brown rush to the middle for 4 yards to the Cin30.
Bryan Anger punts for 52 yards to Cin19. Isaiah Williams return for 6 yards to Cin25.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the left intended for Jalen Tolbert.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for KaVontae Turpin.
Rico Dowdle rush to the middle for a loss of 1 yard to the Dal29.
Cade York kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
York's Third Field Goal Ties Bengals with Cowboys in MNF Thriller
Cade York 29 yard field goal attempt is GOOD.Cade York remains perfect on the day, nailing his third field goal to even the score for the Bengals. The clutch kick keeps Cincinnati neck and neck with the Cowboys in what's shaping up to be a nail-biting Monday Night Football showdown.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the right intended for Tee Higgins.
Chase Brown rush to the middle for 2 yards to the Dal10.
Joe Burrow to the right to Mike Gesicki for 6 yards to the Dal12.
Joe Burrow to the middle to Mike Gesicki for 13 yards to the Dal18.
Chase Brown rush to the middle for 3 yards to the Dal30.
Chase Brown rush to the left for 9 yards to the Dal33.
Joe Burrow to the right to Ja'Marr Chase for 11 yards to the Dal42.
Joe Burrow to the right to Chase Brown for 15 yards to the Cin47.
Brandon Aubrey kicks off to the Cin0. Khalil Herbert return for 32 yards to Cin32.
Cowboys Regain Lead Behind Aubrey's Field Goal and Dowdle's Dominance
Brandon Aubrey 47 yard field goal attempt is GOOD.The Dallas Cowboys are back on top, thanks to a 47-yard field goal by Brandon Aubrey that gave them a 20-17 lead over the Bengals. Rico Dowdle set up the score with a critical 14-yard run on third-and-24, moving Dallas into comfortable field goal range. Dowdle's stellar night continues, as he's racked up a career-high 118 rushing yards on 16 carries, marking his second consecutive 100-yard game. The Cowboys are leaning on their ground game and special teams to maintain control in this tight contest.
Rico Dowdle rush to the left for 14 yards to the Cin29.
Cooper Rush to the middle to Ezekiel Elliott for 2 yards to the Cin43.
Cooper Rush sacked at Cin30 for a loss of 1 yard. Penalty: Unnecessary Roughness on Cowboys (Luke Schoonmaker) -15 yards.
Rico Dowdle rush to the middle for 7 yards to the Cin29.
Rico Dowdle rush to the left for 7 yards to the Dal44. Tackled by Jordan Battle.
Rico Dowdle rush to the middle for 7 yards to the Cin29. Tackled by Myles Murphy.
Cooper Rush to the left to CeeDee Lamb for 7 yards to the Cin36. Tackled by Cam Taylor-Britt.
Cooper Rush to the left to CeeDee Lamb for 7 yards to the Cin36.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for KaVontae Turpin.
KaVontae Turpin rush to the right for 10 yards to the Cin43.
Rico Dowdle rush to the right for no gain to the Dal47.
Cooper Rush rush to the middle for 2 yards to the Dal47.
CeeDee Lamb rush to the left for 1 yard to the Dal45.
Cooper Rush to the middle to Jake Ferguson for 20 yards to the Dal37.
Cowboys Defense Comes Up Big with Hooker Interception
Joe Burrow intended for Ja'Marr Chase INTERCEPTED by Malik Hooker. No return.Joe Burrow's attempt to connect with Ja'Marr Chase ended in disaster as Malik Hooker stepped in for a crucial interception. While there was no return on the play, the turnover provides a key momentum shift for the Cowboys as they look to capitalize on the mistake and swing the game in their favor.
Penalty: Illegal Plyr Downfld on Bengals (Cordell Volson) -5 yards.
Chase Brown rush to the left for 6 yards to the Dal33.
Joe Burrow to the left to Ja'Marr Chase for 8 yards to the Dal39.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the right intended for Andrei Iosivas.
Joe Burrow to the middle to Ja'Marr Chase for 6 yards to the Dal47.
Chase Brown rush to the left for 9 yards to the Cin47.
Joe Burrow to the left to Ja'Marr Chase for 8 yards to the Cin38.
Brandon Aubrey kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
Brandon Aubrey extra point is GOOD.
Cowboys Close the Gap with Rush-to-Cooks Touchdown
Cooper Rush to the right to Brandin Cooks for 3 yards for a TOUCHDOWN.Cooper Rush found Brandin Cooks on a quick to the right for a 3-yard touchdown, bringing the Cowboys closer to the Bengals in this Monday Night Football showdown. The well-timed play highlights Dallas' determination to stay in the game as they chip away at Cincinnati's lead.
Ezekiel Elliott rush to the left for 3 yards to the Cin3.
Rico Dowdle rush to the right for 27 yards to the Cin6.
Cooper Rush to the right to Luke Schoonmaker for 8 yards to the Cin33.
Cooper Rush to the middle to KaVontae Turpin for 16 yards to the Cin41.
KaVontae Turpin rush to the right for 5 yards to the Dal43.
Rico Dowdle rush to the left for 3 yards to the Dal38.
Penalty: Illegal on Bengals (Josh Newton) 5 yards.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for Jalen Tolbert.
Cade York kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
Halftime Report: Bengals Lead Cowboys 17-10
The first half comes to a close with the Cincinnati Bengals holding a 17-10 lead over the Dallas Cowboys. Joe Burrow and Chase Brown highlighted the Bengals' offensive efforts with a stunning touchdown connection, while Cade York added a clutch field goal to push their advantage. The Cowboys, led by Cooper Rush and a resilient defense, managed a touchdown and a field goal but will need to find answers to Cincinnati's offensive rhythm in the second half.
Joe Burrow rush for a loss of 1 yard to the Cin6.
Bryan Anger punts for 52 yards to Cin13. Isaiah Williams return for 1 yard to Cin14. Penalty: Illegal Block on Bengals (Tycen Anderson) -7 yards.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for Brandin Cooks.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for Jake Ferguson.
Cooper Rush to the right to Hunter Luepke for 5 yards to the Dal35. Tackled by Josh Newton.
Cade York kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
York's Field Goal Gives Bengals Crucial Seven-Point Cushion Over Cowboys
Cade York 37 yard field goal attempt is GOOD. Cade York delivers once again, drilling a crucial field goal to extend Cincinnati's lead to seven points. With the Bengals' offense unable to reach the end zone on this drive, York's accuracy ensures they maintain a touchdown-sized edge over the Cowboys as the game intensifies.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the right intended for Ja'Marr Chase.
Bengals timeout.
Joe Burrow to the left to Chase Brown for 3 yards to the Dal19.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the left intended for Ja'Marr Chase.
Bengals timeout.
Joe Burrow to the left to Ja'Marr Chase for 16 yards to the Dal22.
Joe Burrow to the left to Andrei Iosivas for 6 yards to the Dal38.
Joe Burrow to the middle to Ja'Marr Chase for 11 yards to the Dal44.
Bryan Anger punts for 46 yards to Cin33. Isaiah Williams return for 12 yards to Cin45.
Two Minute Warning.
Cooper Rush sacked at Dal21 for a loss of 7 yards.
Penalty: False Start on Cowboys (Jake Ferguson) -5 yards.
Rico Dowdle rush to the left for 4 yards to the Dal34.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the middle intended for Jonathan Mingo.
Cade York kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
Brown's Sideline Sprint Puts Bengals Back in the Lead Over Cowboys.
The Bengals regain the lead in spectacular fashion as Chase Brown turned a Joe Burrow into a highlight-reel touchdown. Racing down the sideline and weaving past a cluster of Cowboys defenders, Brown capitalized on a perfectly timed block by Andrei Iosivas to break free and find the end zone. The play puts Cincinnati back in front, showcasing their explosive offensive potential in this tightly contested game.
Cade York extra point is GOOD.
Joe Burrow to the left to Chase Brown for 13 yards to the Dal6.
Joe Burrow to the right to Mike Gesicki for 5 yards to the Dal19.
Joe Burrow to the left to Ja'Marr Chase for 14 yards to the Dal24.
Joe Burrow to the right to Andrei Iosivas for 23 yards to the Dal38.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the left intended for Tee Higgins.
Chase Brown rush to the right for 3 yards to the Cin39.
Brandon Aubrey kicks off to the Cin0. Khalil Herbert return for 36 yards to Cin36.
Brandon Aubrey 35 yard field goal attempt is GOOD.
Facing a critical third-and-5 from the Bengals' 20-yard line, Cooper Rush's short fell incomplete, forcing Dallas to settle for a field goal. Brandon Aubrey stepped up and delivered, nailing the kick to add three points. The Cowboys now hold a 10-point lead as they continue to apply pressure in this Monday Night Football matchup.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for Jalen Tolbert.
Cooper Rush to the right to Jake Ferguson for 4 yards to the Cin17.
Ezekiel Elliott rush to the left for 1 yard to the Cin21.
Rico Dowdle rush to the left for 19 yards to the Cin22.
Cooper Rush to the middle to Rico Dowdle for 10 yards to the Cin41.
Rico Dowdle rush to the right for 5 yards to the Dal49.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the right intended for Chase Brown.
Joe Burrow to the left to Tee Higgins for 10 yards to the Dal44.
Penalty: Holding on Bengals (Cordell Volson) -10 yards.
Khalil Herbert rush to the left for no gain to the Dal44.
Joe Burrow to the left to Khalil Herbert for 7 yards to the Dal44.
Joe Burrow to the left to Ja'Marr Chase for 24 yards to the Cin49.
Chase Brown rush to the left for 5 yards to the Cin25.
Joe Burrow to the middle to Drew Sample for 12 yards to the Cin20.
End of First Quarter: Lamb's Big Play Highlights Cowboys' Momentum
The first quarter wraps up with the Dallas Cowboys holding the edge, thanks in part to a spectacular 44-yard sprint by CeeDee Lamb. Evading two defenders on a screen play, Lamb charged down the left sideline before finally being brought down, further exposing Cincinnati's defensive struggles. It's been business as usual for the Cowboys' offense and a continuing concern for the Bengals' defense as the game progresses.
Khalil Herbert rush to the left for 4 yards to the Cin8.
Cooper Rush intended for CeeDee Lamb INTERCEPTED by Geno Stone defensed by and returned for 3 yards.
Disaster struck for the Cowboys as a miscommunication between Cooper Rush and CeeDee Lamb resulted in a crucial interception. Anticipating a slant route, Rush fired toward Lamb, who was disrupted by incidental with his defender. The deflected fell straight into the hands of Geno Stone, giving Cincinnati's defense a much-needed turnover to halt Dallas' red zone momentum. It's a game-changing moment as the Bengals look to capitalize on their defensive heroics.
Rico Dowdle rush to the left for no gain to the Cin12.
Rico Dowdle rush to the middle for 12 yards to the Cin12.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the left intended for Ryan Flournoy.
Cooper Rush to the right to CeeDee Lamb for 43 yards to the Cin24.
Rico Dowdle rush to the left for 3 yards to the Dal33.
Cade York kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
Cade York extra point is GOOD.
Penalty: Delay of Game on Bengals -5 yards.
Burrow and Chase Shine as Bengals Answer Cowboys with Highlight Reel TD
Joe Burrow to the right to Ja'Marr Chase for 5 yards for a TOUCHDOWN. Joe Burrow showcased his trademark heroics on a crucial third-down play, scrambling out of the pocket and firing a dart to Tee Higgins, who found space near the Cowboys' six-yard line. On the very next play, Burrow delivered a perfectly timed to Ja'Marr Chase in the corner of the end zone. Despite tight coverage from DaRon Bland, Chase's impeccable route-running and Burrow's quick release proved unstoppable. The Bengals are on the board, showcasing the chemistry that makes this duo one of the NFL's most feared connections.
Bengals Respond with Precision as Burrow Leads Methodical Drive
The Cincinnati Bengals are answering back with a composed and strategic drive down the field. Joe Burrow has found his rhythm, utilizing the dynamic duo of Chase Brown and Ja'Marr Chase to slice through the Dallas defense. With a mix of precision ing and clever play design, Cincinnati is inching closer to the Cowboys' end zone, setting the stage for a potential score in this thrilling Monday Night Football showdown.
Chase Brown rush to the right for 1 yard to the Dal5.
Joe Burrow to the right to Tee Higgins for 13 yards to the Dal6.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the right intended for Ja'Marr Chase.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the right intended for Chase Brown.
Joe Burrow to the left to Chase Brown for 8 yards to the Dal19.
Joe Burrow to the left to Ja'Marr Chase for 14 yards to the Dal27.
Chase Brown rush to the right for 4 yards to the Dal41.
Penalty: Holding on Bengals (Amarius Mims) -10 yards.
Ja'Marr Chase rush to the left for 14 yards to the Dal35.
Joe Burrow to the right to Chase Brown for 13 yards to the Dal49.
Penalty: Holding (Return) on Cowboys (Micah Parsons) 5 yards.
Chase Brown rush to the middle for 3 yards to the Cin33.
Brandon Aubrey kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
Brandon Aubrey extra point is GOOD.
Cooper Rush to the right to CeeDee Lamb for 11 yards for a TOUCHDOWN.
CeeDee Lamb's Fourth-Down TD Puts Cowboys on the Board Early. The Dallas Cowboys wasted no time putting points on the board against the Bengals. On a gutsy fourth-and-one play, quarterback Cooper Rush lofted a perfectly placed to CeeDee Lamb, who broke free from his defender and found open space in the end zone. The touchdown marks an electrifying start for Dallas, making an early statement in this critical Monday Night Football clash.
Rico Dowdle rush to the middle for 1 yard to the Cin11.
Rico Dowdle rush to the middle for 8 yards to the Cin12.
Cowboys Start Strong with Diggs Breakup and Turpin Return Against Bengals
The Dallas Cowboys' defense wasted no time making an impact on Monday Night Football. Trevon Diggs broke up a intended for Tee Higgins, forcing the Bengals' high-powered offense into a quick three-and-out. KaVontae Turpin followed up with a strong punt return, setting up Cooper Rush and the Cowboys with excellent field position for their opening drive. It's a promising start for Dallas in this pivotal matchup.
Cooper Rush incomplete to the right intended for Rico Dowdle.
Cooper Rush to the right to CeeDee Lamb for 13 yards to the Cin20.
Cooper Rush to the right to CeeDee Lamb for 4 yards to the Cin33.
Micah Parsons Shines Early Against Bengals in MNF Showdown
Micah Parsons is proving why he's been the NFL's most dominant rusher since Week 10 as he takes the field tonight on "Monday Night Football." With 5.5 sacks and 22 quarterback pressures since returning from a high ankle sprain, the Cowboys' All-Pro edge rusher is making his presence felt early against Joe Burrow and the Bengals' explosive offense. As the game unfolds, Parsons' battle with Burrow and star wideout Ja'Marr Chase is shaping up to be a showcase of elite talent in a high-stakes showdown.
Cooper Rush to the right to Luke Schoonmaker for 14 yards to the Cin37.
Rico Dowdle rush to the middle for 7 yards to the Dal49.
Rico Dowdle rush to the left for 2 yards to the Dal42.
Ryan Rehkow punts for 46 yards to Dal20. KaVontae Turpin return for 20 yards to Dal40.
Joe Burrow incomplete to the left intended for Tee Higgins.
Joe Burrow to the middle to Drew Sample for 1 yard to the Cin34.
Joe Burrow to the left to Ja'Marr Chase for 3 yards to the Cin33.
Brandon Aubrey kicks off to the endzone. Touchback.
ESPN's 'Simpsons Funday Football' Brings Animated Twist to Bengals-Cowboys Matchup
In a unique twist for "Monday Night Football," ESPN will present "The Simpsons Funday Football" during the Cincinnati Bengals vs. Dallas Cowboys game. This alternate broadcast will transport the live game into the animated world of "The Simpsons," with Bart Simpson ing the Bengals and Homer Simpson backing the Cowboys. The special presentation aims to infuse humor and a fresh viewing experience, featuring iconic Springfield elements and characters integrated into the game coverage. This initiative follows ESPN's previous collaboration with Nickelodeon for a kid-friendly NFL broadcast, showcasing the network's commitment to innovative and entertaining sports programming.
Micah Parsons Praises Bengals' Trey Hendrickson as 'Mr. Consistent' Defensive End
Cowboys All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons heaped praise on Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, comparing him to wide receiver Mike Evans in of consistency and production. Hendrickson, who has logged four 10-sack seasons since 2020--second only to Myles Garrett--earns respect for his old-school approach. "He's like a '90s football player--no gloves, all long arm power," Parsons said. "He's not flashy, but he's Mr. Consistent." With his relentless style and effectiveness, Hendrickson remains a cornerstone of Cincinnati's defense.
CeeDee Lamb's Injury Status and Season Performance
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has been contending with a sprained AC t in his right shoulder since Week 9 against the Atlanta Falcons. Despite the injury, Lamb plans to play in tonight's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, benefiting from an 11-day rest period.
Lamb's 2024 season has been inconsistent, partly due to the shoulder injury and the absence of starting quarterback Dak Prescott, who is out for the season with a hamstring injury. Lamb leads the team with 79 receptions for 880 yards and four touchdowns over 12 games.
However, he has also recorded a career-high nine dropped es, including three in a recent game against the New York Giants.
Joe Burrow's MVP Candidacy Amid Bengals' Struggles
Despite the Cincinnati Bengals' 4-8 record, quarterback Joe Burrow's exceptional performance has caught the attention of NFL peers, including Cowboys' All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons, who considers Burrow a worthy NFL MVP candidate. Burrow leads the league with 30 touchdown es and has amassed 3,337 ing yards with only five interceptions, resulting in a 107.4 er rating over 12 games.
Joe Burrow s Andrew Luck in Historic Losing Streak Despite Elite Play
Joe Burrow continues to etch his name into NFL history, but not in the way Bengals fans would hope. The star quarterback, who leads the league with 30 touchdown es this season, became just the second quarterback in NFL history to throw for 300 or more yards and three ing touchdowns in three consecutive games--all resulting in losses. He s Andrew Luck, who accomplished the feat during the 2018 season with the Indianapolis Colts.
Burrow's individual brilliance has been undeniable. In Week 10, he torched the Ravens for 428 yards and four touchdowns. He followed that with 356 yards and three scores against the Chargers in Week 11 and capped it off with 309 yards and three more touchdowns in a heartbreaking loss to the Steelers in Week 13. Despite his stellar performances, the Bengals have been unable to capitalize, falling to 4-8 on the season.
This rare and dubious distinction underscores Cincinnati's struggles to complement Burrow's MVP-caliber play with consistent defensive and special teams efforts. While Burrow is putting up numbers to rival the NFL's best, his team's inability to close games has left the Bengals on the outside of the playoff picture looking in.
Bengals Set Record for Most Points Scored in 3-Game Losing Streak Since AFL/NFL Merger
The Cincinnati Bengals are rewriting the record books, but not in a way they'd hoped. Despite scoring a staggering 99 points over their last three games, the Bengals have lost all three matchups--a feat that sets an NFL record for the most points scored in a three-game losing streak since the 1970 AFL/NFL merger.
Their high-octane offense has been on full display, dropping 34 points against the Ravens in Week 10, 27 against the Chargers in Week 11, and a jaw-dropping 38 in a Week 13 loss to the Steelers. Yet, Cincinnati's defense has struggled mightily, giving up 113 points across the same stretch, leaving Joe Burrow and the offense with little room for error.
As the Bengals sit at 4-8, the frustration grows. While their explosive offense has shown they can compete with the NFL's best, their porous defense continues to hold them back, leaving fans wondering what might have been if both units could find a way to click.
Bengals' Historic Offensive Output Undermined by Struggling Defense in 2024 Season
The Cincinnati Bengals' 2024 season has been marred by a defense that ranks 31st in the NFL, allowing 28.3 points per game. Despite quarterback Joe Burrow leading an offense that averages 27.9 points per game in losses--a record high in NFL history for teams with at least five defeats--the Bengals hold a 4-8 record. This offensive output sures that of the 2009 Green Bay Packers (27.4) and the 2013 Dallas Cowboys (27.3) under similar conditions. The disparity between Cincinnati's potent offense and porous defense underscores the team's struggles this season.
Bengals Inactives Announced: Orlando Brown Jr. Out Again vs. Cowboys
The Cincinnati Bengals have listed their inactives for the Monday Night Football clash against the Dallas Cowboys. Offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr. will remain sidelined, ed by wide receiver Charlie Jones, safety Daijahn Anthony, tight end Tanner McLachlan, and defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins. With Brown out, the Bengals' offensive line faces another challenging test in a must-win game to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.
Dallas Cowboys Roster Updates: Diggs Active, Vaughn and Others Out vs. Bengals
The Dallas Cowboys have announced their inactives for the Monday Night Football showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals. Key players like linebacker Damone Clark (#18), cornerback Andrew Booth (#25), and safety Juanyeh Thomas (#30) will be sidelined, along with running back Deuce Vaughn (#42), wide receiver Jalen Brooks (#83), and defensive end Tyrus Wheat (#91). However, stars Trevon Diggs and Tyler Guyton are active, bolstering the Cowboys' lineup as they fight to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Under the bright lights of AT&T Stadium, the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys collide on "Monday Night Football," a matchup that once carried Super Bowl aspirations but now tells a tale of two teams teetering on the brink of irrelevance. Both squads entered the season aiming for greatness, but as Week 14 approaches, the stakes are far lower, with playoff hopes fading fast.
The Bengals (4-8) find themselves grappling with an inconsistent season despite boasting one of the league's most productive offenses. Joe Burrow and company have scored 25 or more points in eight games this year, yet their record in those contests is a dismal 2-6. Defensive struggles have been Cincinnati's Achilles' heel, allowing games to slip away despite the offense's heroics. A win in Arlington would keep their slim playoff hopes alive, but with the Steelers and Ravens dominating the AFC North, the odds are stacked against them.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys (5-7) are also in survival mode. After a promising start to the season, injuries, including the loss of quarterback Dak Prescott, have derailed their campaign. While Dallas has managed back-to-back wins in recent weeks, their postseason path remains murky in a competitive NFC East dominated by the 11-2 Eagles.
Vegas has Cincinnati favored by 4.5 points, with a moneyline of -225, but Dallas remains dangerous, especially at home. The over/under for the game is set at 50.5, reflecting the potential for a high-scoring affair.
With the roof closed at AT&T Stadium, weather won't be a factor, allowing both teams to focus on what could be a shootout. For the Bengals and Cowboys, Monday night is more than just another game--it's a last-ditch effort to salvage what remains of their seasons.
Joe Burrow rush for a loss of 1 yard to the Dal49.