The Cincinnati Bengals capped off an undefeated preseason on Friday, August 28, 2026, with a dominant 30-13 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. With both teams electing to sit their primary starters, the final exhibition matchup served as a critical showcase for depth pieces fighting to survive upcoming roster cuts.
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The Bengals' offense clicked early behind veteran quarterback Josh Johnson, who played the entire first half. Johnson looked sharp and poised, completing 12 of 19 passes for 156 yards. He heavily targeted wide receiver Dohnte Meyers, who boosted his roster hopes by hauling in three catches for 51 yards on the opening drive alone. Cincinnati’s first-half drives repeatedly stalled in the red zone, but kicker Evan McPherson proved lethal, converting field goals from 29, 34, and a booming 58 yards out.
Conversely, the Eagles' offense sputtered early under backup quarterback Tanner McKee, who struggled heavily against Cincinnati's relentless pressure. McKee was sacked twice and tossed an interception to Bengals defensive back Tacario Davis. Philadelphia finally got on the board at the stroke of halftime when Jake Elliott drilled a 45-yard field goal, making it 9-3.
The second half brought a flurry of scoring. Sean Clifford took over under center for Cincinnati and quickly orchestrated an efficient drive, finding Ke'Shawn Williams for an 11-yard touchdown pass to extend the lead to 16-6. The Eagles responded under veteran quarterback Andy Dalton, who played the second half and brought a veteran rhythm to the offense. Dalton orchestrated an impressive 14-play, 76-yard drive that culminated in a 5-yard touchdown pass to running back Carson Steele, narrowing the deficit to 16-13.
However, Cincinnati's ground game completely took over in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach. The Bengals' rushing attack finished the night with 211 total yards. Kentrel Bullock wore down the Eagles' defense, capping a physical drive with a 6-yard touchdown run. Minutes later, Jamal Haynes put an exclamation point on the victory, bursting through the line for a spectacular 39-yard touchdown scamper.