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Cincinnati Bengals, Joe Burrow, ESPN
November 18, 2024 By  Cincinnati Bengals

Bengals’ Chances To Make Playoffs After Week 11 Loss, Revealed

It’s no secret the Cincinnati Bengals are struggling mightily this season and aren’t doing so well against other contenders in the NFL. According to a projection by ESPN, though, they may have to move heaven and hell if they want to make it to the playoffs in the coming months.

Just recently, the Los Angeles Chargers edged out Cincinnati with a final score of 34-27, marking a significant victory for the Chargers. The game was a rollercoaster, as the Chargers built a commanding 21-point lead in the third quarter before nearly squandering it. J.K. Dobbins emerged as the hero, scoring a decisive touchdown with just 18 seconds left in the game, ensuring the Chargers secured their fourth consecutive win.

Cincinnati Bengals, Joe Burrow
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) gets to his feet after being sacked on third down in the first quarter of the NFL Week 2 game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Cincinnati Bengals at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024. The Bengals led 16-10 at halftime.

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed his enthusiasm post-game, celebrating the team’s resilience. Dobbins’ late-game heroics came after a tense stretch where the Chargers’ offense had stalled, failing to score throughout much of the second half. With only seconds remaining, the Chargers executed a rapid 84-yard drive that culminated in Dobbins’ 29-yard touchdown run, showcasing both strategy and execution under pressure.

Quarterback Justin Herbert delivered a solid performance, throwing for 297 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to connect with receivers, particularly Ladd McConkey, who finished with 123 yards, was crucial in establishing the early lead. Despite a shaky second half, Herbert remained composed, leading the game-winning drive when it mattered most.

On the other side, quarterback Joe Burrow threw for an impressive 356 yards and three touchdowns, but his team faced yet another close loss, leaving them at 4-7 for the season. Missed opportunities in the fourth quarter, including two failed field goals from Evan McPherson, haunted Cincinnati, as they struggled to finish drives.

ESPN Predicts Cincinnati Bengals Have an Abysmal Chance To Make The Playoffs

Cincinnati Bengals, Joe Burrow, ESPN
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws a pass on the run in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 11 game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. The Chargers won 34-27.

Cincinnati’s current record has led fans and critics alike to sour on their postseason plans. According to an post by ESPN NFL’s official Instagram account, the team’s current chance on making the playoffs is at 22%.

 

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In another discussion with Pat McAfee, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter highlighted the Cincinnati’s potential to make a playoff push despite their challenging 4-7 start to the season. He emphasized that while the road ahead will be tough, the Joe Burrow-led team has the talent and capability to compete for a postseason spot.

Cincinnati Bengals, Joe Burrow, ESPN
Sep 10, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) looks up at the scoreboard during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Their playoff hopes hinge on improving their performance in upcoming games. With key players and strategies in place, the Bengals remain a team to watch as they strive to turn their season around and fight for a chance at the playoffs.

Cincinnati Bengals, Joe Burrow, ESPN
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) drops back to throw a pass in the first quarter of the NFL Week 11 game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. The Chargers led 24-6 at halftime.

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About Angelo Guinhawa

Angelo Guinhawa is a veteran sports writer and editor who has been working in the industry for over 10 years now. He has worked for FOX Sports PH and several other reputable sports publications. His specialty is the NBA and the NFL, though he also covers the MLB, NHL and European top-flight football.

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