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The Cincinnati Bengals opened their 2026 preseason with a 16-14 victory over the Detroit Lions on Thursday evening at Paycor Stadium. The win marked the franchise’s first successful preseason opener since 2021, providing an encouraging start to the exhibition season.
Cincinnati’s defense made an immediate impact, forcing two turnovers early in the contest. Defensive standouts Jordan Battle and Cashius Howell each recorded takeaways, with Battle intercepting a pass and second-round draft pick Howell recovering a fumble. Starting quarterback Joe Burrow appeared briefly, completing 5 of 6 passes for 39 yards on 13 snaps. Backup Joe Flacco later found Jack Endries for a touchdown pass that helped secure the victory.
Kicker Evan McPherson contributed three points with a 56-yard field goal, the game’s opening score. The Bengals will continue their preseason schedule on August 22 when they host the Chicago Bears at Paycor Stadium.
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Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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