Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Aug 23
Bears Lose 27-9 to Bengals as 11 Penalties and 2-of-14 Third Downs Stall Offense
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Aug 23

Bears Lose 27-9 to Bengals as 11 Penalties and 2-of-14 Third Downs Stall Offense

3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Aug 23

Summary

  • Chicago failed to score a touchdown in a 27-9 preseason loss at Cincinnati, managing only three Cairo Santos field goals as the Bengals pulled away with downfield scores.
  • The Bears' offense repeatedly stalled on third down — converting 2 of 14 — while 11 penalties and red-zone failures undercut even their opening drive with Caleb Williams.
  • Williams played just one series and finished 2 of 5 for 28 yards; the starting offense moved the ball early but again came away with only a field goal.
  • Braxton Jones and the left-tackle rotation struggled in pass protection, while rookie defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg stood out with three tackles and steady pressure.
  • The flat showing also hurt fringe roster hopefuls, with backup quarterback Miller Moss, J.P. Richardson and parts of the secondary failing to build on Week 1.

Insights

Can Caleb Williams master this demanding new offense before Chicago's lack of touchdowns becomes a permanent crisis?
Will the Bears' glaring penalty issues and offensive line battles derail their regular season before it even begins?