Bengals defense shows promise as Joe Burrow leads team to 2-0 start
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 7:37 PM
Last updated Sep 25, 2026
The Cincinnati Bengals are 2-0 as they prepare for Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. While Joe Burrow's offense has had its ups and downs, the defense has stood out, ranking fifth in team pressure rate and fourth in QB hit rate early in the season. With eight sacks and only three touchdowns allowed, the new defensive line, including Boye Mafe and Dexter Lawrence II, appears to be making a significant impact. This potential turnaround in defense is seen as a key development for Burrow, who has long sought improvements in this area.
- •Bengals are 2-0 after wins against the Buccaneers and Texans.
- •Defense ranks fifth in team pressure rate at 40.2%.
- •Cincinnati recorded eight sacks and allowed only three touchdowns.
- •Upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers will test the defense further.
- 7:37 PMYahoo Sports — Bengals might have finally given Joe Burrow what he wants in a defense
"This Bengals' defense might finally be what Burrow has been asking for for a while.
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