Off The Bench is BACK! Join the crew for all the reaction and hot takes to the Cincinnati Bengals win over the Browns and Week 1 of the NFL season.

Cincinnati Bengals Edge Cleveland Browns in Week 1 Thriller

In a gritty AFC North showdown, the Cincinnati Bengals narrowly defeated the Cleveland Browns 17-16 on September 7, 2025, at Huntington Bank Field, kicking off their season with a crucial 1-0 record. The Bengals, fueled by comments from Browns' receiver Jerry Jeudy, relied on a strong first half led by quarterback Joe Burrow and running back Chase Brown. Burrow orchestrated a methodical opening drive, throwing for 113 yards and a touchdown, while Brown paced the ground game, helping Cincinnati build a 14-point lead. However, the offense struggled in the second half, managing just 2 net yards and one first down across their final four drives, totaling minus-23 yards. The Bengals' defense stepped up, securing two critical interceptions off dropped passes by Cleveland’s receivers, halting potential go-ahead scores. A missed extra point and a failed field goal attempt by Browns’ rookie kicker Andre Szmyt in the fourth quarter sealed Cleveland’s fate. Despite outgaining Cincinnati 327 to 141 yards, the Browns couldn’t capitalize, dropping to 0-1. This win marked the Bengals’ first Week 1 victory since 2021, breaking a trend of slow starts under coach Zac Taylor, who emphasized the importance of starting 1-0 in the division.

Cincinnati Reds Rally to Beat New York Mets

The Cincinnati Reds staged a dramatic comeback to defeat the New York Mets 6-5 on September 7, 2025, at Great American Ball Park, improving their record to 72-71. Trailing 5-4 in the bottom of the ninth, the Reds capitalized on a Mets’ bullpen collapse. With two outs, Will Benson delivered a walk-off single, capping a rally sparked by a series of clutch hits and Mets’ defensive miscues. Reds’ starting pitchers Nick Martinez, Andrew Abbott, and Nick Lodolo had previously excelled against the Padres in July, and their depth was evident here. Despite a challenging 2-12 record in their last 14 games in San Diego, the Reds showed resilience against a strong Mets squad. This victory highlighted their ability to compete against top National League teams, boosting their momentum as they vie for a wild card spot, though they trail the Padres by 6.0 games. The Reds’ .248 batting average and 93 stolen bases rank them mid-tier in MLB, but their fightback spirit could prove vital in the season’s final stretch.

Top NFL Storylines from Week 1, 2025

Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season delivered compelling narratives across the league, setting the tone for an unpredictable year. Here are five key storylines:

Bengals Overcome Slow-Start Narrative: The Bengals’ 17-16 win over the Browns was a statement against their historical Week 1 struggles (1-5 under Zac Taylor). Joe Burrow’s leadership and defensive opportunism, including two interceptions, silenced doubters, though their second-half offensive collapse (2 net yards) raises concerns about consistency.

Aaron Rodgers’ Steelers Debut: In a dramatic 34-32 victory over the New York Jets, Aaron Rodgers, now with the Pittsburgh Steelers, showcased his enduring talent. Despite a turbulent Jets tenure, Rodgers led a comeback, exploiting a fumble and a late 68-yard touchdown drive. His performance underscored his quest for one last playoff run at age 41.

Browns’ Offensive Woes Persist: Cleveland’s loss to Cincinnati highlighted ongoing offensive struggles. Despite a robust defense holding the Bengals to 141 yards, Joe Flacco’s receivers dropped four catchable passes, two leading to interceptions, and rookie kicker Andre Szmyt missed critical kicks. The Browns’ 3-14 record last season looms large as they navigate a soft roster reset.

Daniel Jones Revitalized with Colts: In a 33-8 rout of the Miami Dolphins, Daniel Jones, now starting for the Indianapolis Colts, looked rejuvenated under new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. The Colts’ defense, featuring exotic pressure packages, stifled Miami, holding them to under 100 yards until late in the third quarter. Jones’ steady play signals playoff potential for Indianapolis.

Micah Parsons’ Packers Impact: Traded to the Green Bay Packers before Week 1, Micah Parsons made an immediate impact in a 27-13 win over the Detroit Lions, despite playing only 29 snaps. His pressure on Jared Goff, including a sack and aiding an interception, showcased his value to an already stout defense, though his back injury raises durability questions.

On September 6, 2025, the Cincinnati Bearcats defeated the Bowling Green Falcons 34-20 at Nippert Stadium, securing their first win of the season (1-1). QB Brendan Sorsby threw for 333 yards and three TDs, including two to Cyrus Allen, and ran for another. The Bearcats overcame a 0-4 historical deficit against BGSU, with their defense notching four sacks to hand new Falcons coach Eddie George his first FBS loss.