A season of extremes: elite offense meets defensive struggles
In short: The 2024 Cincinnati Bengals season was defined by a striking dichotomy. While Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase delivered historic offensive performances, the defense struggled to contain opponents, leading to an NFL record for most losses in games where the team scored 30 or more points.
The Bengals' 2024 campaign was marked by significant volatility. After a 4–8 start—their worst since 2020—the team rallied to win their final five games, finishing with a 9–8 record. A Week 18 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, courtesy of the Denver Broncos, ended their postseason hopes for a second straight year despite their late momentum. Despite their late surge, the team suffered an early setback by starting 0–1 for the third consecutive year. This poor start was mirrored by a 0–2 record following a narrow defeat in Kansas City.
Offensively, the team was dominant. Quarterback Joe Burrow led the league in both passing yards and passing touchdowns, anchoring the NFL's best passing offense. By topping all other receivers in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns, Ja'Marr Chase secured a rare Super Bowl era triple crown. Chase's achievement made him only the seventh wide receiver to accomplish this feat during the Super Bowl era. This offensive success was bolstered by a victory in Cleveland, marking their first win there since 2017.
However, this offensive firepower was undermined by defensive inconsistencies. Even with Trey Hendrickson leading the league in sacks, the Bengals' scoring defense ranked 7th-worst, conceding 30+ points in six matches. This defensive struggle was highlighted by a league-record feat: the Bengals became the first team to lose three games in a single season while scoring 30 or more points. The unit struggled significantly in close contests, finishing with a 4–7 record in one-score games. Furthermore, they suffered their first home loss to Philadelphia since the year 2000.
The season also saw significant roster and coaching shifts. The Houston Texans acquired running back Joe Mixon in March in exchange for a seventh-round pick. Following the season's conclusion, the team released defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. The roster underwent changes when the team traded Joe Mixon to the Houston Texans for a draft pick. Additionally, the franchise achieved its first road victory against the Giants in several attempts.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2024 Cincinnati Bengals season
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