Tanner Hudson's Challenges Highlight Bengals' Mistakes in First Half

Tanner Hudson's Impactful Fumble

The Cincinnati Bengals are back in Paycor Stadium, set to take on the New England Patriots to kick off the 2024 season. After a first half filled with offensive and defensive mistakes, the Bengals are heading into halftime with zero points. Tanner Hudson fumbled near the end zone, allowing Patriots corner Marcus Jones to recover the ball. This fumble came after what would have been the Bengals' first touchdown of the season was overturned when officials ruled that tight end Mike Gesicki didn't have control of the ball when he landed in the end zone.

Key Plays and Challenges

Cincinnati got its first first down of the game in the second quarter when Joe Burrow connected with Andrei Iosivas for a 12-yard pass. However, Burrow was sacked for a second time on the Bengals' third down, leading to a three-and-out on their first offensive series of the season. The Patriots struck first, scoring at the start of the second quarter with Rhamondre Stevenson easily walking into the end zone. Bengals QB Joe Burrow was sacked on the second play of the game, but he quickly recovered his fumbled ball.

The Bengals are looking to bounce back this season after ending last year at 9-8 and at the bottom of the AFC North. Cincinnati's 2023 season was impacted by star quarterback Joe Burrow nursing a torn wrist ligament. A healthy Burrow is now heading into Sunday's game with his No. 1 receiver at his disposal. After uncertainty due to unresolved contract negotiations, Ja'Marr Chase has been declared active for Sunday. However, fellow star receiver Tee Higgins will be inactive due to a hamstring injury. Second-year receiver Andrei Iosivas is expected to receive more touches in Higgins' absence as the Bengals also welcome running back Zack Moss into the fray.