Bengals vs. Bears: Season Over? Winners & Losers From Week 9 Collapse! (2025)

Bengals vs. Bears: 5 Winners and 10 Losers from a Potentially Season-Killing Defeat

The Cincinnati Bengals entered their Week 9 match-up with a recent history of embarrassment. Instead of a 4-4 record and a chance to enter their bye week with more wins than losses, they faced the Bears without their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, and a defense that continues to struggle. The Bengals' defense, led by Al Golden, made a critical mistake by allowing Justin Fields and the Jets to score 39 points, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat and handing the Jets their first win of the season.

The Chicago Bears, on the other hand, entered the game with a 4-3 record, having won four of their last five games. This provided the Bengals with an opportunity to end their off week on a high note.

Here's a breakdown of the Bengals' winners and losers from Week 9.

Winners

Tee Higgins: Higgins, the Bengals' top wide receiver, showcased his talent with two incredible, acrobatic touchdown catches and a two-point conversion in garbage time. His performance highlights the strength of the Bengals' wide-receiver duo, which includes Ja'Marr Chase, one of the best receivers in the league.
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Charlie Jones: Jones, often overlooked, made a significant impact by returning the game's opening kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown, giving the Bengals an early lead. Despite the Bengals' overall talent, Jones' contribution demonstrates his ability to make a difference when given the opportunity.
Evan McPherson: McPherson, the Bengals' kicker, has been reliable this season. He was two for three on field goals and three for three on extra points, including a significant moment when he became a member of the 500-point club. His performance, including a rare onside kick conversion, shows his importance to the team's success.
Betters Who Took the Over: With a talented offense and a sub-par defense, the Bengals were expected to exceed the over/under total of 51.5 points, which they did early in the second half.
Joe Flacco: Flacco, the 40-year-old quarterback, had a solid performance with 457 passing yards, four touchdowns, and a two-point conversion, despite a shoulder injury. This was his first 400-yard game, showcasing his resilience and ability to lead the team.

Losers

Bengals Fans: The Bengals had a chance to improve their record and morale after defeating the Steelers, but they gave up 80 points to the Jets and Bears. The team's poor defense, which failed to address the issues that kept them out of the playoffs in 2024, has left fans disappointed and questioning the front office's decision-making.
Bengals' Playoff Hopes: The Bengals' loss to the Bears, combined with their earlier loss to the Jets, has significantly impacted their playoff chances. With a brutal schedule ahead, including games against Pittsburgh, New England, Buffalo, and the Ravens, the team's playoff hopes are now in doubt.
Joe Burrow: Burrow's return from toe surgery was anticipated to boost the team's playoff chances. However, the Bengals' losses have likely dashed those hopes, making it difficult for the team to remain in the playoff mix when Burrow returns.
Zac Taylor: Taylor, the Bengals' head coach, has faced criticism for his team's inability to turn losses into wins. While individual calls may not be the sole reason for the team's struggles, the constant bad luck and poor performance reflect on the coaching staff's decision-making.
Al Golden: Golden's defense struggled to stop the run, allowing the Bears' backup running backs to gain 215 yards on the ground. Despite the Bengals' offense scoring 42 points, Golden's defense couldn't prevent the loss.
Jordan Battle: Battle's performance on defense has been inconsistent, with critical gaffes in crucial moments. His continued lack of improvement suggests that it's time for a change in the defensive lineup.
Shemar Stewart: Stewart, the Bengals' first-round pick, struggled to make an impact and left the game with a knee injury. His disastrous rookie season raises questions about the team's scouting and draft process.
Orlando Brown Jr.: Brown Jr., a Pro Bowl left tackle, has faced challenges in 2025, giving up three sacks. His performance in the fourth quarter, where he was bull-rushed and punched the ball out, highlights the team's defensive struggles.
Duke Tobin: Tobin, the Bengals' top scout, has faced scrutiny for the team's failed draft picks. While he made a strategic trade for Joe Flacco, the overall draft process needs improvement to build a competitive roster.
Hope for the Future: With a 3-6 record, the Bengals' playoff hopes are nearly gone. The team's inability to acquire and develop talent raises concerns about the franchise's future, leaving fans questioning the direction of the organization.