The Cincinnati Bengals improved to 5-10 on the year with a 45-21 win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. The game featured the return of wide receiver Tee Higgins, who had missed the previous game with a concussion.
Higgins’ status was up in the air all of last week as he did not clear concussion protocol until a day before the game. The star wide receiver was able to participate in limited fashion until logging a full practice on Friday. Higgins proved his effectiveness in his return as he had three receptions for 53 yards and a touchdown. The touchdown was his tenth of the year, which tied the most he’s ever had in a season.
Tee Higgins’ Injury
Following the game, head coach Zac Taylor provided some insight on Higgins’ injury and recovery. He said Higgins saw an independent specialist on Thursday morning to get clearance to play on Sunday. Taylor did not disclose that piece of information prior to the game as he said he wanted to keep it under wraps.
After the game, Higgins said he was “was anxious and nervous flying to Pittsburgh for additional input about his recent concussions. Additionally, he said he wore a new helmet that featured some additional padding. His return gave the Bengals offense a much-needed boost as they scored a season-high 45 points, after getting shut out in their previous game.
His first-quarter touchdown gave the Bengals a 7-0 lead. His 10 touchdowns lead the Bengals. Higgins now has 20 touchdowns over his last 25 games. The Bengals offense was rolling all throughout the game. They faced an early 14-10 deficit, but then scored 35 straight points as they put the game out of hand. By the fourth quarter, the Bengals began removing starters. Higgins played only 38 snaps as a result, but the previous concussion injury does not seem like it was a factor in that decision.
Bengals Upcoming Schedule
Prior to the game, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase was asked about playing in games after being eliminated from playoff contention. He said “We can’t go out there embarrassing ourselves or the organization.” Head coach Zac Taylor had shared a similar mindset for the team as they prepared for their final three games. He said “These types of games are good character games.”
On Sunday, the Bengals showcased the type of team they can be when they are fully healthy. They improved to 3-1 when Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are all active. Zac Taylor has already confirmed the team will continue to start quarterback Joe Burrow in their remaining games. His reasoning was “because we want to win.”
The Cincinnati Bengals will look to win against the Cardinals and Browns. Arizona and Cleveland have a combined 6-24 record on the year. A strong closing stretch could provide Cincinnati with some momentum as they finish off their third consecutive year without a postseason appearance. The team has also guaranteed their first losing season since 2020, which was quarterback Joe Burrow’s rookie season.
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