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Bengals Edge Browns 17-16 as Missed Kicks, Late Interception Decide Opener

Coach Kevin Stefanski signaled patience with rookie Andre Szmyt despite a debut marked by two misses.

Overview

  • Cincinnati sealed the road win with two second-half takeaways, including DJ Turner's interception with 1:24 left, on a day its offense mustered 141 yards.
  • Rookie kicker Andre Szmyt missed a third-quarter extra point and a 36-yard attempt with 2:22 remaining after making a 45-yarder before halftime.
  • Joe Flacco went 31-of-45 for 290 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions that deflected off receivers, while Cleveland outgained Cincinnati 327-141 and controlled the ball for nearly 36 minutes.
  • Evan McPherson's 35-yard field goal with 2:48 in the third quarter put the Bengals ahead for good after Jordan Battle intercepted a tipped pass.
  • Stefanski said he was “not there” on bringing in a new kicker immediately as fan criticism mounted; Cleveland visits Baltimore next, and the Bengals host Jacksonville.