The New England Patriots secured a gritty 16-10 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, marking a successful debut for new head coach Jerod Mayo. Powered by a strong defensive effort and Rhamondre Stevenson’s 120 rushing yards, the Patriots were able to hold off the mistake-prone Bengals and start their season on a high note.
Stevenson set the tone early, capping an 80-yard drive with a 3-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. That drive, led by veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett, featured six first downs and showcased the Patriots’ ability to control the clock and sustain drives. Brissett, who was chosen to start over rookie first-round pick Drake Maye, was not flashy but played efficiently. His steady play helped New England avoid turnovers and manage the game effectively.
The Bengals, led by star quarterback Joe Burrow, struggled to find any rhythm in the first half. Cincinnati went three-and-out on their first three possessions, with Burrow unable to get the offense going. Burrow did manage to push the Bengals into the red zone in the second quarter, but the drive ended in disappointment when Patriots safety Kyle Dugger forced a fumble at the goal line, stripping tight end Tanner Hudson. Cornerback Marcus Jones scooped up the loose ball and returned it 17 yards, preserving New England’s early lead.
Cincinnati’s woes continued into the second half. A costly fumble by Bengals returner Charlie Jones on a punt led to a Patriots field goal by Joey Slye, extending New England’s lead. The Bengals had another opportunity on a fourth-and-1 play, but Burrow’s pass came up short, turning the ball over to the Patriots once again.
The Bengals finally found the end zone late in the third quarter, with Zack Moss punching in a 5-yard touchdown run. Evan McPherson’s 51-yard field goal cut the Patriots’ lead to 16-10, giving Cincinnati a chance to mount a comeback. However, the Patriots’ defense stiffened when it mattered most.
With just under three minutes left in the game, Cincinnati got the ball back but failed to move the chains and elected to punt. Rhamondre Stevenson, continuing his dominant performance, rushed for two crucial first downs to help the Patriots run out the clock and seal the victory.
Mayo’s debut as head coach couldn’t have gone much better, with New England’s defense forcing key turnovers and the offense doing just enough to secure the win. For Cincinnati, it was a frustrating afternoon filled with missed opportunities and untimely mistakes.
The Patriots will look to build on this momentum, while the Bengals will need to regroup and address their offensive struggles as they prepare for their next matchup.
