Bengals players criticize late-game play calling in Week 5 loss
- The Bengals lost to the Ravens 41-38, resulting in a 1-4 record.
- Players criticized the conservative play calling during the final overtime drive, wishing for a more aggressive approach.
- The team's poor start is their worst since 2019, raising concerns about their championship potential.
In Cincinnati, the Bengals faced a disappointing 41-38 loss to the Baltimore Ravens during Week 5 of the NFL season, leaving them with a 1-4 record. Center Ted Karras expressed the team's frustration, stating they must now work to escape what he termed 'football hell.' The game featured a critical moment when Bengals holder Ryan Rehkow fumbled a snap on a potential game-winning field goal, which allowed the Ravens to capitalize and secure the victory. Bengals players, including Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase, voiced their concerns over the conservative play calling during the final overtime drive, suggesting a more aggressive approach could have improved their chances of winning. Despite having one of the league's top offenses, the Bengals have struggled defensively, and quarterback Joe Burrow acknowledged that the team is not performing at a championship level. The Bengals' current situation marks their worst start since the 2019 season, a year that ultimately saw them advance to the Super Bowl after overcoming early struggles.