The Cincinnati Bengals secured a 31-17 victory over the ,[object Object], in Week 2 of the 2025 ,[object Object],, showcasing both promising and concerning elements as they near the regular season. The game highlighted Cincinnati’s offensive rhythm, particularly from their backup wide receivers, while also exposing vulnerabilities in their defensive front. Despite allowing some big runs early on, especially in the ground game where Washington’s runners Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Chris Rodriguez made significant gains, the Bengals managed key interceptions from safety Tycen Anderson and rookie linebacker Barrett Carter that swung momentum in their favor. This defensive effort helped the Bengals regain control after Washington’s explosive starts on their first two drives, which combined for two rushing touchdowns without a single pass attempt. The Bengals’ offense thrived, particularly through the connection between quarterback ,[object Object], and wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley, who recorded five catches for 72 yards and two touchdowns.

Washington's offense, while initially dominant on the ground with a strong opening salvo, showed potential concerns with their reliance on rushing and the lack of passing attempts by quarterback Jayden Daniels during certain drives. Daniels demonstrated his threat with a 14-yard rushing touchdown and effective scrambles that engaged the defense, but weighed down by league trade speculation and limited offensive starters in this preseason encounter. Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt also impressed with a 27-yard touchdown run, continuing his surge with 46 yards on 11 carries, while Chris Rodriguez contributed 62 yards on six carries, bolstering Washington's running game overall. However, the slippery, rain-soaked field and an absence of some key starters contributed to a cautious but promising outlook for Washington’s offense, indicated by strong backfield performances but underwhelming passing presence.

Joe Burrow’s limited but efficient playing time for the Bengals underscored his importance heading into the regular season. Burrow finished with 62 yards and a touchdown on 9 of 14 passing attempts, carefully managed to avoid injury and poise himself for the remaining preseason. His leadership helped stabilize the Bengals’ offense early, leveraging the wide receiver depth and red-zone execution, notably finishing a scoring drive with a five-yard touchdown pass to Charlie Jones. Conversely, the Bengals' defense showed systemic issues against the run, allowing the Commanders to rack up significant yards early, a concern that was particularly pointed with defensive end Trey Hendrickson sidelined. The Bengals must address these defensive lapses in the last weeks of preseason to solidify their strategy for the season.

Special teams provided a neat finish, with kicker Evan McPherson connecting on a 54-yard field goal late in the game, restoring confidence after a subpar kicking percentage in the previous year. Both teams emerged from this contest relatively healthy, an important factor as they prepare for the regular season intensity. The Bengals’ victory was driven by a balanced offensive attack supported by opportunistic defense, while the Commanders displayed glimpses of a dynamic running game and smart defensive play despite the loss. As the preseason nears its end, Cincinnati's win sends a message, but both squads still have adjustments to make, especially Cincinnati’s defense needing reinforcement to live up to expectations.