The Cincinnati Bengals pulled off a dramatic victory over the Dallas Cowboys in the final minutes of Monday Night Football (MNF), winning 27-20. With the win, the Bengals improve to 5-8, while the Cowboys drop to 5-7. Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, was clutch when it mattered most, ensuring a thrilling finish that keeps their slim playoff hopes alive.
Ja’Marr Chase Delivers the Game-Winning Touchdown
A Last-Minute Play That Sealed the Victory
With just over a minute remaining in the game, Joe Burrow connected with Ja’Marr Chase for a 40-yard touchdown that put the Bengals up 27-20, giving them a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. Chase, who had already caught one touchdown earlier in the game, put the team on top with his second TD reception. The Cowboys, despite having three timeouts left, couldn’t respond in time, marking a thrilling finish for Cincinnati.
Chase’s Historic Performance
Ja’Marr Chase was a standout throughout the game, finishing with 177 receiving yards on 14 catches and two touchdowns. His 177 yards were the fourth-most by a receiver this season, and his performance tied Travis Kelce and Cooper Kupp for the most receptions in a game this year. This Bengals win also keeps Chase on track for an Offensive Player of the Year award contention as he continues to dominate on the field.
Joe Burrow’s Impressive Stats Lead Bengals’ Offense
Burrow’s Leadership Shines Through
Joe Burrow had a spectacular night, completing 33 of 44 passes for 369 yards, throwing three touchdowns, and just one interception. Burrow’s leadership, especially in the clutch moments, was crucial in securing the Bengals victory for Cincinnati. His ability to stay calm and composed under pressure allowed him to make key throws, including the game-winning pass to Chase.
A Quick Look at the Bengals’ Offensive Stats:
- Total yards: 433
- Passing yards: 369
- Rushing yards: 74
- Rushing leader: Chase Brown – 14 carries, 58 yards (4.1 YPC)
- Receiving leader: Ja’Marr Chase – 14 catches, 177 yards, 2 TDs
Cowboys Struggle to Keep Pace Despite Strong Individual Efforts
Rico Dowdle’s Solid Performance
Rico Dowdle was the standout performer for the Cowboys on the ground, rushing for 131 yards on 18 carries, averaging 7.3 yards per carry. While Dowdle’s performance was impressive, the Cowboys’ inability to establish a consistent passing game and capitalize on turnovers ultimately hindered their chances.
Cooper Rush’s Inconsistent Performance
The Cowboys’ quarterback Cooper Rush had a challenging night, completing just 16 of 31 passes for 183 yards, with two touchdowns and one interception. Rush struggled to find a rhythm, and his incomplete pass on a crucial fourth-and-7 late in the game sealed the Cowboys’ fate.
Key Moments in the Fourth Quarter
Ja’Marr Chase’s Go-Ahead Touchdown
At 1:01 remaining in the game, Burrow connected with Chase for a 40-yard touchdown, giving the team a 27-20 lead. This proved to be the game-winning score, as the Cowboys’ last-minute drive was thwarted by the Bengals’ defense.
Bengals Recover Muffed Punt for Key Possession
In a pivotal moment with 2:00 left, Amani Oruwariye muffed a punt, and Maema Njongmeta recovered it. This mistake by Dallas gave the game new life, setting them up for their game-winning drive.
Trey Hendrickson’s Sack Ends Cowboys’ Hopes
With 35 seconds remaining, Bengals’ defensive end Trey Hendrickson recorded a crucial sack on Cooper Rush, pushing the Cowboys back eight yards and effectively ending their chances of a comeback.
Final Stats Breakdown: Bengals vs. Cowboys
Bengals’ Dominance in Total Yards
- Total yards: Bengals – 433 | Cowboys – 322
- Rushing yards: Bengals – 74 | Cowboys – 156
- Passing yards: Bengals – 369 | Cowboys – 183
Top Performers of the Game
- Joe Burrow (CIN): 33-for-44, 369 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
- Cooper Rush (DAL): 16-for-31, 183 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
- Ja’Marr Chase (CIN): 14 catches, 177 yards, 2 TDs
- Rico Dowdle (DAL): 18 carries, 131 yards (7.3 YPC)
Cris Collinsworth Predicts Ja’Marr Chase Touchdown
A Bold Prediction Becomes Reality
During the ManningCast broadcast, Cris Collinsworth predicted that the Bengals would go for a touchdown on their final drive, and that Ja’Marr Chase would score it. After the touchdown, Collinsworth excitedly celebrated, declaring it a “walk-off home run.” His accurate prediction highlighted his deep football knowledge and added to the excitement of the game.
Cowboys’ Late-Game Mistakes and Missed Opportunities
A Turnover on Downs Seals Cowboys’ Fate
With 24 seconds left, the Cowboys faced a fourth-and-7 at the Bengals’ 18-yard line. Cooper Rush’s pass to Jake Ferguson was incomplete, giving the Bengals the ball back and ensuring their victory.
Defensive Struggles for Dallas
While the Cowboys’ defense managed to sack Joe Burrow once, they were unable to generate consistent pressure or make key stops when it mattered most. A lack of discipline and missed tackles allowed the Bengals to move the ball down the field and score crucial points.
Playoff Projections for the Bengals
The Bengals may have won, but their playoff chances remain slim. According to The Athletic’s Austin Mock, the Bengals have less than a 1% chance of making the playoffs, needing to win every game from here on out and rely on other teams to falter.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
- Cowboys’ Next Game: Dallas will head to Carolina to face the Panthers and rookie quarterback Bryce Young. The game is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.
- Next Game: The Bengals will travel to Tennessee to face the Titans, coached by former Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan. This game is also scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.
Bengals Show Resilience in Crucial Win
The Bengals’ dramatic 27-20 win over the Cowboys is a testament to their resilience, especially in the face of a tough season. Despite being 5-8, they remain mathematically alive in the playoff race, and this victory gives their fanbase something to hold onto. With standout performances from Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, the Bengals proved they can compete with anyone, even with their backs against the wall.
The Cowboys, on the other hand, will have to regroup after this loss. Despite individual successes, their defensive lapses and offensive inconsistencies left them with too many missed opportunities to secure the win.
