Burrow's 4 TDs not enough as Bengals fall to Bills, dropping to 4-9 record

The Cincinnati Bengals suffered a painful 39-34 loss to the Buffalo Bills, severely damaging their playoff hopes as they fell to a 4-9 record.

Why it matters: The defeat not only places the Bengals three games behind the first-place Pittsburgh Steelers but also significantly diminishes their postseason chances, now sitting at a mere 7.3%, according to ESPN Analytics.

• Cincinnati's upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens (6-7) becomes crucial as they strive to keep their playoff aspirations alive.

What’s new: Joe Burrow displayed both brilliance and vulnerability during the contest, finishing with 284 passing yards, four touchdowns, and two interceptions—one of which was returned for a touchdown by cornerback Christian Benford.

• Despite a strong showing, including 25 completions on 36 attempts, Burrow's turnovers proved costly in a tightly contested game.

Yes, but: The Bengals initially held a 10-point lead with just over eight minutes remaining, showcasing their potential to compete against formidable opponents.

• This late-game collapse raises questions about the team's ability to execute under pressure and make critical plays when needed most.

Between the lines: Burrow acknowledged the gravity of the loss, stating, "That probably lowers our chances even more, but that's how the cookie crumbles." His candid remarks reflect the sense of urgency surrounding the team's situation.

• Zac Taylor, the Bengals' head coach, emphasized the need for resilience moving forward: "I know we're up against the wall here with whatever our opportunities are, but we got a big home game this week in the division."

By the numbers: The Bengals have now split the season series with the Steelers, underscoring the competitive nature of their division. As they prepare for the Ravens, each game becomes increasingly pivotal in determining their fate.

What’s next: Cincinnati's matchup against Baltimore will be a defining moment for the squad, requiring them to harness their strengths while addressing the vulnerabilities exposed in the loss to the Bills.

• With playoff aspirations dwindling, the Bengals must rally together to salvage their season and give Burrow the support he needs to thrive.