Bengals defeat Dolphins 45-21, Burrow surpasses 20,000 passing yards in dominant performance

The Cincinnati Bengals delivered a commanding performance against the Miami Dolphins, winning 45-21 and reviving their playoff hopes.

Why it matters: This victory not only improves the Bengals' record to 5-10 but also showcases their ability to dominate defensively while balancing offensive prowess, essential for momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.

• Joe Burrow's impressive outing solidified his status as one of the league's top quarterbacks, surpassing 20,000 career passing yards in just 75 games.
• The win positions Cincinnati favorably as they seek to build on this performance in coming weeks.

What’s new: Burrow completed an efficient 25 of 32 passes for 309 yards and four touchdowns, highlighting a potent offensive scheme that exploited Miami’s defensive weaknesses.

• His connection with wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase was particularly fruitful, resulting in nine catches for 109 yards.
• Rookie running back Chase Brown contributed significantly, accumulating 109 scrimmage yards and scoring three touchdowns.

Yes, but: While the offensive fireworks were captivating, the Bengal's defense played an equally crucial role, forcing three turnovers and executing a fourth-down stop.

• The defense converted each turnover into a touchdown, demonstrating a "killer instinct" that head coach Zac Taylor emphasized as vital for the team’s identity moving forward.
• Taylor remarked on the team's response to external pressures, indicating a growing confidence that could translate into sustained success.

What to watch: As the Bengals look ahead, maintaining this level of performance will be critical, especially given the high stakes of their upcoming matchups.

• Cincinnati must continue to leverage its diverse offensive weapons while ensuring defensive consistency.
• With key players like Tee Higgins returning from injury and contributing meaningfully, the Bengals seem primed to make a late-season push.

Between the lines: Joe Burrow's remarks encapsulate the team’s mindset: "That's how it's supposed to look like. That's what it's supposed to feel like."

• His sentiment reflects a renewed vigor that could propel the Bengals through the remainder of the season, particularly as they aim to secure a playoff spot.
• The successful integration of Higgins post-concussion demonstrates the depth of talent available to the Bengals, further enhancing their offensive capabilities.

The bottom line: The Bengals comprehensive victory over the Dolphins signals their potential as a formidable contender in the AFC, contingent upon maintaining consistency both offensively and defensively in the weeks to come.