Bengals roll past Commanders 31-17 in NFL preseason game

In a showdown between LSU Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks, Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels each made their mark as the Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Washington Commanders 31-17 on Monday night.

Burrow, the 2020 Heisman winner, played three series, completing 9 of 14 passes for 62 yards. He capped his night with a 4-yard touchdown strike to Charlie Jones, while running back Chase Brown finished off the Bengals’ opening drive with a 1-yard score on fourth-and-goal.




Cincinnati’s offense has been sharp this preseason, scoring touchdowns on four of five possessions with Burrow at the helm, giving the team confidence in avoiding its usual slow regular-season starts.


Daniels, the reigning 2023 Heisman winner, saw action for just one possession but made it count. After big runs by Deebo Samuel and Chris Rodriguez, Daniels showcased his trademark explosiveness, scrambling 14 yards for a touchdown.


He did not attempt a pass and absorbed contact at the goal line, something Washington head coach Dan Quinn admitted he’d prefer his young star avoid, but also acknowledged it is part of what makes Daniels special.

Considering the Commanders were without multiple offensive starters and playing on a slick, rain-soaked field, the brief outing was likely a wise decision.


Rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt continued his preseason surge for Washington, breaking free for a 27-yard touchdown and totaling 46 yards on 11 carries.

Rodriguez also impressed with a team-high 62 yards on just six attempts, strengthening his case for a rotation role. Matt Gay added a 27-yard field goal for Washington in the second half.

For Cincinnati, Evan McPherson connected on a long 54-yard kick late in the fourth quarter to seal the win. Head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged room for improvement but praised the team’s offensive rhythm, noting he’s encouraged by where the Bengals stand with the regular season approaching.