3 things we learned from Bengals divisional round win vs. Titans

The dream lives on! Saturday night in Nashville, the Cincinnati Bengals defense played perhaps its best game of the season and bottled up the Titans en route to a 19-16 win and a chance to play in the AFC title game.

The Bengals offense, despite good statistical games from Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase struggled most of the night, relying on four Evan McPherson field goals. Sometimes it is that way, right?

The Cincy defense stepped up and shut down Derrick Henry, as well as forced three Ryan Tannehill interceptions, the last of which facilitated the drive for the winning field goal.

The Titans brought a relentless pass rush, resulting in nine sacks of Burrow. He spent the balance of his evening wincing in pain and picking himself up off of the field, yet he continued to answer the challenge and deliver clutch throws.

Fortunately, the defensive game plan cooked up by Lou Anarumo, who is creating head coaching buzz around the league himself, was executed to perfection, resulting in no room to run for Henry. While there weren’t many Bengal sacks on Ryan Tannehill, he was clearly confused and uncomfortable.

Many of the questions surrounding this team heading into this game against the Titans were answered, including mine about the defense, which you can see here. Much was learned about the depth and character of this team as well.

Here are three things we learned from the Bengals big divisional win against the Titans.