The Cincinnati Bengals looked like they had a game plan for once in Week 1 of an NFL season under Zac Taylor's watch. Thanks to four turnovers forced by Cincinnati's defense, and an overall efficient operation from quarterback Joe Burrow, the Bengals prevailed 33-27, and the score wasn't so indicative of how comfortable the win was.
Other than a ghastly pick-six, Burrow played just about as well as he could've hoped. That's especially so given how rough the Bengals have looked during the Burrow-Taylor era in the first couple games of most years.
One major stat stands out from Week 1: Burrow had Next Gen Stats' second-fastest average time to throw (2.54 seconds), and as a result, only got sacked once. That sounds like a winning formula against the vicious Houston Texans defense in Week 2.
Burrow must emulate lightning-quick operation from Week 1 in Houston
Joe Burrow is entering Week 2 with a questionable injury designation due to back tightness. Not great, Bob, when Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter are screaming in off the edge at you.
Anderson and Hunter tend to switch up where they align a fair amount, but for the most part, Burrow's blind side will be invaded by the latter. Bengals left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. had better buckle up.
Really, if the Bengals can just run the ball well with Chase Brown against the Texans' light boxes, and their passing attack is a similar quick-strike situation as it was versus Tampa Bay, they should have little issue keeping Burrow clean.
But all of a sudden, protecting Burrow is top of mind again. Like it or not, these are the types of talking points heading into Sunday's clash at NRG Stadium...
Joe Burrow is nursing a sore back — already time to be worried in Cincinnati?#NFL #WhoDey @colleenwolfe pic.twitter.com/a2QYvwrubc
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) September 17, 2026
While the offensive line has indubitably improved compared to what Joe Shiesty has tolerated throughout his career, this is not the opponent to decisively beat back the "bad o-line" narrative with. Getting too bold and trying to bite off more than they can chew re: explosive plays is a recipe for putting Burrow in harm's way.
I understand the temptation to get Ja'Marr Chase more involved after he only had two catches for 12 yards in the preseason opener. I know how lethal he and Tee Higgins are on downfield shot plays.
Because the Texans rely so much on Cover 1 and Cover 3, Chase and Higgins should have ample opportunities to win in single coverage. Unless the run is established and we've got dialed-up shot plays on, exploiting those matchups shouldn't extend far beyond the quick-game, short-area passing range.
Burrow appeared to hurt himself most on a scramble in Week 1. He'll have to use his legs to evade Anderson and Hunter on more than a few occasions, methinks. I just think the more the Bengals can establish the run and get the ball out fast, the better off Burrow will be and the more gassed that lethal Houston pass rush will get.
As confident as I am that the Bengals can keep things rolling in Week 2 amid a relatively easy, pre-Week 6 bye schedule, they shouldn't risk changing up their game plan too much versus Houston. Otherwise, we'll be in for a fear-filled afternoon in Who Dey Land.
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