The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Buffalo Bills 24-18 on Sunday Night Football in Week 9 of the 2023 NFL season. The Bengals won the coin toss and elected to receive, and they quickly marched down the field for a touchdown on their opening drive. The Bills answered with a touchdown drive of their own, but the Bengals took the lead for good with a field goal in the second quarter.
The Bengals led 17-12 at halftime, and they extended their lead to 24-12 in the third quarter on a touchdown pass from Joe Burrow to Ja'Marr Chase. The Bills cut the lead to 24-18 with a touchdown in the fourth quarter, but the Bengals were able to hold on for the victory.
Game Highlights
The Bengals' defense was dominant in the game, holding the Bills to just 18 points. The Bengals sacked Josh Allen four times and forced two turnovers.
Joe Burrow had a solid game for the Bengals, completing 25 of 34 passes for 270 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for 36 yards.
Ja'Marr Chase was Burrow's favorite target, catching eight passes for 125 yards and a touchdown.
Josh Allen struggled for the Bills, completing just 23 of 39 passes for 214 yards and one touchdown. He also threw two interceptions.
Stefon Diggs was the Bills' leading receiver, catching six passes for 71 yards.
Stats to Know
The Bengals improved to 6-3 on the season with the victory. The Bills fell to 5-4.
The Bengals have won their last two games against the Bills.
Joe Burrow is now 21-2 when he scores on the game's first drive.
Josh Allen has thrown at least one interception in five of his last six games.
The Bengals' defense is ranked first in the NFL in scoring defense, allowing an average of just 15.7 points per game.
Conclusion
The Bengals defeated the Bills in a thrilling Week 9 showdown. The Bengals' defense was the key to the victory, as they held the Bills to just 18 points. Joe Burrow also had a solid game for the Bengals, throwing for 270 yards and two touchdowns.
The Bengals are now one of the favorites to win the AFC North, and they are a team to watch in the playoffs.