Bengals' Historic Loss to Vikings: Key Points

The Cincinnati Bengals suffered their worst defeat in franchise history, losing 48-10 to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. The absence of starting quarterback Joe Burrow, sidelined for three months due to a turf toe injury, greatly impacted the team. Down 48-3, the Bengals faced their largest deficit ever before scoring their first touchdown, taking 49 minutes to do so.

Cincinnati struggled to move the ball, managing only 53 rushing yards, and had difficulty protecting the ball, with five players fumbling, resulting in three turnovers. Vikings cornerback Isaiah Rodgers scored two defensive touchdowns, an 87-yard pick-six, and a 66-yard fumble return.

Despite Vikings quarterback Jake Browning's 19-for-27 performance with 140 yards and two interceptions, the team comfortably led the game. The Bengals, now 2-1, will face the Broncos on Monday Night Football next week.

The Bengals' lack of a running game has become a significant issue, with attempts to improve unsuccessful. The team's ground performance was the worst in the league, with Chase Brown managing only six yards on nine carries. Coach Zac Taylor tried various strategies, including quick screens and gadget plays, to generate movement, but the running game remained ineffective. The team needs to address this weakness to compensate for Burrow's absence.