Bengals Force Four Fumbles and Hold Off Buccaneers 33–27
The Bengals opened their season with a 33–27 victory over Tampa Bay on Sunday, using four fumble recoveries to build a lead they protected through the final possession. Cincinnati’s defense scored the team’s first touchdown of 2026 and repeatedly handed its offense opportunities at Paycor Stadium.
The Bengals’ official recap details three consecutive first-half Tampa Bay possessions that ended with lost fumbles. Myles Murphy knocked the ball from Baker Mayfield, and Demetrius Knight Jr. returned it 27 yards for a touchdown. Bryan Cook then forced a Bucky Irving fumble recovered by Boye Mafe. Barrett Carter caused another Mayfield fumble near the goal line, with Cook recovering in the end zone.
Cincinnati led 24–10 at halftime after offensive touchdowns from Mike Gesicki and Chase Brown. Joe Burrow finished 25-for-35 for 254 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Gesicki caught five passes for 78 yards. Evan McPherson supplied four field goals, including successful attempts from 55 and 58 yards, giving the Bengals valuable points when possessions stopped short of the end zone.
Tampa Bay’s rapid reaction report highlights rookie linebacker Josiah Trotter’s response. He recorded a sack, returned an interception for a touchdown and led the Buccaneers with 10 combined tackles. His pick-six cut Cincinnati’s lead to 27–20, keeping the visitors within reach despite their earlier giveaways.
Mayfield completed 23 of 28 passes for 216 yards. His late eight-yard touchdown run reduced the margin to six points, but Tampa Bay never got another possession. Cincinnati held the ball for the remaining 3:19. Mafe had forced the fourth fumble earlier in the final quarter, with T.J. Slaton Jr. recovering; the ensuing Bengals drive ended in another field goal.
The result gives Baltimore another winning AFC North rival to track in PowerPage Sports. Cincinnati’s offense had productive moments, but its defense determined the shape of the afternoon. For Tampa Bay, efficient passing could not erase four lost possessions. The Buccaneers return home to face Cleveland on September 20 at 1 p.m. Eastern.
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