Bengals force 4 turnovers, Burrow throws for TD in 33-27 win over the Buccaneers

The Cincinnati Bengals secured a 33-27 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their inaugural game of the season on Sunday. The Bengals' new defense played a pivotal role in the win, forcing four turnovers, with the first fumble recovery for a touchdown since 2022.

Joe Burrow, the Bengals' seven-year franchise quarterback, completed 25 of 35 passes for 254 yards and a touchdown. The rookie linebacker Jeremiah Trotter of the Buccaneers made a crucial mistake by committing a pick-6, turning the ball over to the Bengals.

Evan McPherson contributed three field goals, including two long ones from 55 and 58 yards out. Linebacker Boye Mafe and safety Bryan Cook, both signed in free agency, also had significant contributions. Mafe recovered two fumbles and forced one recovery, while Mafe added to the Bengals' sack count with one of their four.

The Buccaneers, led by quarterback Baker Mayfield, signed a $165 million, three-year extension earlier in the week. Mayfield completed 23 of 28 passes for 216 yards and scored a touchdown on a 9-yard scramble, pulling the Buccaneers within six points with 3:19 left in the game. However, Cincinnati's defense sealed the win by converting all three fumbles into touchdowns.