The Cincinnati Bengals hit the bye at 3-2, and if you squint, you can see how this team could’ve been 5-0 or 1-4. A three-point loss in Pittsburgh.
A five-point loss to Jacksonville after Ja’Marr Chase left with a concussion in the first 18 minutes. Then a 31-24 win in Miami to stop the bleeding.
So who’s been the one player this team can’t do without? Here are the nominees.
Joe Burrow, QB: 135-of-189 (71.4%), 1,361 yards, 11 touchdowns, three interceptions, and a 104.4 passer rating. That completion percentage leads the NFL. He’s done it while losing Colbie Young on the first play in Pittsburgh, Chase early against Jacksonville, and Tee Higgins late in that same game. Four touchdowns in Miami went to Mike Gesicki, Samaje Perine, Tanner Hudson and Chase. That’s an MVP spreading the wealth.
Tee Higgins, WR: 27 catches for a team-high 423 yards (15.7 per catch). When Chase was out or limited, Higgins was the guy keeping defenses honest down the field.
Ja’Marr Chase, WR: While Chase had a quiet debut and battled a concussion against the Jaguars, he has had his share of splash plays. He has four receiving touchdowns through five games, and continues to be a key to the Bengals’ success.
Boye Mafe, DE: The biggest free-agent deal of the offseason, and he’s earned it: three sacks, five tackles for loss, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. He’s been among the league leaders in pressures, and he tipped the pass that became Battle’s first interception in Miami.
Dexter Lawrence II, DT: The biggest free agent acquisition (figuratively and literally) by the Bengals has had a big impact on the previously maligned defense. Through five games, Lawrence has three sacks, nine tackles (five for loss), and eats up space for other defenders.
Is it fair that a quarterback almost always wins this? If Burrow weren’t eligible, who’s your MVP? Sound off on the comments!