Bengals collapse, allow Jets to get 1st win of season with 39-38 victory

CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals fell to the formerly winless New York Jets 39-38 on Sunday in Paycor Stadium.

Cincinnati (3-5), specifically on offense, looked strong throughout the day, but the defense collapsed in the second half, allowing the Jets (1-7) to come back.

Jets running back Breece Hall found his footing in the second half, racking in two rushing touchdowns — his first touchdowns of the season.

New York quarterback Justin Fields — who threw 21-of-32 and 244 yards — also found Mason Taylor and Tyler Johnson in the end zone.

Despite the loss, Cincinnati had its best rushing game of the season, collectively garnering 181 yards throughout the game.

Running back Chase Brown had two touchdowns, one where he powered into the end zone and the other off a 19-yard pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, who threw 21-of-34 for 223 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Running back Samaje Perine also found the end zone off a 32-yard rush.

Flacco also rushed, or shall we say leaped, 1 yard into the end zone for Cincinnati's first touchdown of the game.

In the air, Flacco also found Tee Higgins for a deep 44-yard touchdown pass.

After the loss, head coach Zac Taylor called the game "humbling."

Taylor said he's looking for "someone to step up and lead the group" on Cincinnati's defense, but he wouldn't name names.

The Bengals are back in Paycor Stadium next week to face the Chicago Bears.