The Cincinnati Bengals’ Thursday night contest with the Baltimore Ravens came right down to the wire, the Bengals dropping a 35-34 decision on a missed two-point conversion that would have won the game. No matter, as Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase had one heck of an evening, hauling in 11 catches for 264 yards and three touchdowns, proving once again how inevitable the chemistry is between him and quarterback Joe Burrow. But Chase’s comments after the game left some sense that there was a little frustration – which added intrigue on this hard-fought night by the Bengals.
Ja’Marr Chase’s Big Night
Chase was hot all game long, showing why he’s one of the best wide receivers in the league. Burrow targeted him time and again to move the chains and score three touchdowns that kept the Bengals in the vicinity. The connection between Burrow and Chase was electric, as Chase regularly ended up in favorable matchups and making plays every time the Bengals needed them.
"As a receiver you should want the ball yes, but sometimes Joe don't see it"
Ja'Marr Chase when asked about not getting the ball on the Bengals' failed 2-pt conversion
(via @Bengals) pic.twitter.com/jKKMRk3gbz
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 8, 2024
“Sometimes Joe Don’t See It”
After the game, Chase was open about his role and wanted to be the go-to guy in clutch moments. He also told the reporters, “As a receiver, you should want the ball-yes, but sometimes Joe don’t see it.” The comment seemed to show a little frustration with his QB as the top receiver wanted the ball in the game’s biggest moment. With Chase clearly locked in during this game, it’s understandable that he’d want every opportunity possible to make an impact.
“I’m Always Open”
Chase wasn’t shy when asked if he was open on the pivotal two-point conversion attempt: “I’m always open.” Said with bravado, the declaration might have thrown a slight jab in the direction of Burrow, who decided to go to tight end Tanner Hudson on that play. It didn’t make it; Chase, like many fans, was left wondering what could have been if the ball had gone a different direction.
Building on the Connection
As Chase’s quotes might raise some eyebrows, they also show the passion and confidence of a player who genuinely believes he can make a difference in every play. Still, one of the most powerful Bengals weapons is his connection with Burrow, which, as he gets open with great regularity, will make him a prime target in any circumstance.
Look Ahead
The Bengals have shown a penchant for putting the game in Burrow’s and Chase’s hands, and Thursday night wasn’t any different. Building that chemistry will be huge going into the second half of the season. With talent like Chase and trust from a quarterback like Burrow, there’s reason for Bengals fans to believe more big plays, and maybe some more thrilling finishes, are well on their way.
Also Read: Carolina Panthers: Chuba Hubbard’s Contract Extended Through 2028
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