The Titans were bullying the Bengals so badly that even Derrick Henry threw a TD pass with ease
To say the Cincinnati Bengals have disappointingly begun their 2023 campaign would be an understatement. Entering Sunday’s matchup with the Tennessee Titans, the Bengals were just 1-2 and were clearly feeling the effects of an unfortunate Joe Burrow calf injury.
Instead of getting back to .500, the Titans absolutely clocked them all around. By the late second quarter, Tennessee held a commanding 17-3 lead. And with mere seconds left on the clock, the Titans decided to pour it on with Derrick Henry. Ah, OK. Cool. Yeah, a good Henry run always makes sense.
Oh, no, scratch that. They had Henry throw the ball on a way-too-easy touchdown pass to Josh Whyle. Cincinnati, what are we doing?
4th career TD pass for @KingHenry_2
: #CINvsTEN on FOX
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/Jq9JHUeqb6 pic.twitter.com/8jDPz1qfp9— NFL (@NFL) October 1, 2023
The Bengals wanted to even up after a poor start to their season. Rather than give them what they wanted, the Titans took the opportunity to humble their AFC rival by using a running back touchdown pass. For what it’s worth, Henry has been uncharacteristically good as a passer despite his reputation as a runner.
Derrick Henry’s career passing stats, including playoffs: 7 of 8 for 28 yards and 4 touchdowns. pic.twitter.com/Uoftc3e1z2
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 1, 2023
Burying a conference rival with a trick running back play? It doesn’t get more beautiful (or petty?) than that.