The Cincinnati Bengals fell to the Cleveland Browns in Week 9, but quarterback Joe Burrow had some positive thoughts to share about the rest of the season.
This wasn’t a close game by any means. The Browns thumped the Bengals 41-16 in Cincinnati, and it would appear this Bengals team has started to fall apart after falling to the Jets in a much more pathetic loss last week.
Burrow remains the picture of optimism, though. He told reporters at a post-game press conference:
"“We got tough, resilient guys that are excited to come back to work. We’re halfway through the season, so we’ve still got a long way to go. Everything’s still in front of us.”"
After nine weeks, the Bengals are currently 5-4 and in third place in the AFC North. Losing to the Browns meant losing crucial ground in their division, and the Ravens getting the win against the Vikings on Sunday doesn’t help, either.
These are not, however, desperate times, and this does not call for desperate measures.
"“There’s no panicking. We’ve lost two in a row — so what? There’s still a chance to win the division and make the playoffs.”"
Cincinnati Bengals QB Joe Burrow focuses on team’s bright future after Week 9 loss
Reporters mostly asked about Burrow’s interceptions and his chemistry with the wide receivers, especially Tyler Boyd. Boyd was nearly non-existent with one catch for 11 yards, but Burrow brushed aside any worries of Boyd’s decreasing production halfway through the season.
Burrow also maintained his faith in the O-line, which allowed Browns defenders to hit him 12 times and sack him five times this game.
Ever the team leader, Burrow focused on his personal weaknesses and what he could improve on moving forward. Mainly, interceptions.
"“The interceptions were frustrating. The ones that I can control I need to limit, and that’s that. I’ve got to take care of the ball better.”"
Burrow finished 28-of-40 for 282 yards and failed to throw a score while recording two picks. His quarterback opponent, Baker Mayfield, received nearly twice as high of a quarterback rating for his 218 passing yards and two touchdowns.
Everybody knew it — this wasn’t Burrow’s best game, and he’ll have to get back on track to keep Cincinnati’s winning spirit alive.
One bad game does not a bad team make, but two bad games….also don’t spell doom for the rest of the season. Burrow, the WR corps, and the Bengals defense will get it together soon.