Burrow Down! Can the Bengals Survive Without Their Star QB? Season Analysis

The Cincinnati Bengals’ Super Bowl aspirations have been thrown into turmoil. In their Week 2 victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Joe Burrow suffered a turf toe injury that will require surgery, sidelining him for at least three months. The immediate question on everyone’s mind: Burrow Down! Can the Bengals Survive Without Their Star QB?

The Injury and Its Impact

The injury occurred during the second quarter when Burrow was sacked by Arik Armstead. Burrow was seen leaving Paycor Stadium on crutches with his left foot in a protective boot. This marks the third time in six seasons that Burrow has suffered a significant injury, raising concerns about the team’s ability to protect their franchise quarterback. Since being drafted in 2020, Burrow has been sacked 201 times, including a league-high 51 in 2021.

NFL analyst Ari Meirov suggests the Bengals face an uphill battle to reach eight wins while Burrow is sidelined. The consensus betting odds have the Bengals’ full-season win total now sitting at 7.5 wins, even with their 2-0 record.

Jake Browning Takes the Helm

With Burrow out, the Bengals turn to backup quarterback Jake Browning. Browning, who went undrafted in 2019, has limited NFL experience but demonstrated promise in 2023 when Burrow missed time due to a wrist injury. In seven starts, Browning led the Bengals to a 4-3 record, completing 70.4% of his passes for 1,936 yards, 12 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.

In the game against the Jaguars, Browning completed 21 of 32 passes for 241 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also had a game-winning 1-yard touchdown leap with 19 seconds remaining. Despite the interceptions, Browning’s performance was historic. He became the first non-starting quarterback in 15 years to enter a game trailing, throw at least three interceptions, and still win.

ESPN’s Seth Walder ranks Browning as the second-best backup quarterback in the NFL, behind only Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons. Walder notes that in 2023, Browning would have ranked 13th in QBR (60.8) and fifth in completion percentage over expectation (plus-3%) had he played enough snaps to qualify.

The Offensive Strategy Without Burrow

Zac Taylor doesn’t feel the need to change the Bengals’ offensive scheme much for backup QB Jake Browning. The Bengals’ offensive coordinator, Dan Pitcher, praised Browning’s work ethic and his positive impact on the team since joining in 2021.

One key adjustment may involve an even greater emphasis on the quick passing game. In 2024, Burrow led the league in attempts on passes that took fewer than 2.5 seconds after the snap. This strategy aims to mitigate the offensive line’s struggles in pass protection.

Key Players Need to Step Up

For the Bengals to remain competitive without Burrow, several players need to elevate their performance.

Ja’Marr Chase: Chase had a monster game against the Jaguars, catching 14 passes for 165 yards and a touchdown. 128 of those yards came with Browning under center. The Bengals will need Chase to continue his stellar play.
Tee Higgins: With Browning at quarterback, Higgins may see a decrease in his target share. However, he remains a vital part of the Bengals’ offense and needs to capitalize on his opportunities.
Trey Hendrickson: The Bengals’ defense needs to maintain its strong play, and Hendrickson, a Pro Bowler, must continue to deliver impactful performances.

The Schedule Ahead

The Bengals face a challenging schedule over the next three months. Key games include matchups against the Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, and Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL analyst Ari Meirov suggests that the best-case scenario for the Bengals is to reach eight wins by the time Burrow returns.

Trade Possibilities

If the Bengals struggle without Burrow, they may consider trading for a veteran quarterback. Potential options include Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons and Jameis Winston of the New York Giants.

Can the Bengals Make the Playoffs?

The Bengals’ playoff hopes hinge on Browning’s ability to lead the team effectively and the performance of the supporting cast. While the loss of Burrow is a significant blow, the Bengals have a talented roster and a capable backup quarterback.

The Final Verdict

The Cincinnati Bengals’ season is at a crossroads. The injury to Joe Burrow presents a formidable challenge, but the team has the pieces to remain competitive. Jake Browning has proven himself a capable backup, and the Bengals’ offense boasts a wealth of talent. The defense must continue its strong play, and key players need to step up in Burrow’s absence.

The road ahead will be tough, but the Bengals have the potential to weather the storm and make a playoff push when Burrow returns.