Halftime Observations: Bengals Start Fast, Lead Commanders 10-7

CINCINNATI — The Bengals lead the Commanders 10-7 at halftime.

Cincinnati never trailed in the first half following a quick start by the offense. Here are our halftime observations:

First Drive

The Bengals' offense only scored one touchdown in their first two preseason games. It didn't take them long to match that on Saturday night.

Jake Browning led Cincinnati on a 10-play, 61-yard drive that ended with a 7-yard touchdown to Andrei Iosivas.

It was the first touchdown for the rookie wide receiver. He also had a 25-yard catch on the drive.

It was a nice start for Browning. He's hoping to secure the backup quarterback job behind Joe Burrow.

Heck of a start by the #Bengals offense. Andrei Iosivas scores for the first time in his NFL career.
Jake Browning was 4-for-4 for 42 yards and a score.
How would you rate Iosivas’ Griddy? pic.twitter.com/USHnnTZwht
— James Rapien (@JamesRapien) August 26, 2023

QB Battle

Browning finished 6-for-6 for 42 yards and one touchdown in two drives. He completed a nice ball to Tanner Hudson on third down, but a facemask penalty on Trey Hill negated that play and forced Cincinnati to punt after a failed screen to Chase Brown.

Trevor Siemian completed 8-of-12 passes for 83 yards and an interception. This was his best outing of the preseason. He also scrambled for a first down.

The interception happened near the end of the first half when the Bengals were clearly trying to get the ball into the end zone.

It feels like Browning has the edge over Siemian going into cut-down day, but both guys played well in the first half. Reid Sinnett is expected to play in the second half.

Key Injury

Defensive end Joseph Ossai suffered a right ankle injury on the first drive of the game. He went back to the locker room and didn't return.

Most of the Bengals key players didn't suit up on Saturday. It was a bit of a surprise to see Ossai dressed and playing in the game.

Offensive tackle D'Amte Smith appeared to suffer a left wrist/arm injury in the second quarter. He walked back to the locker room and was replaced by Hakeem Adeniji.

Money Mac

Evan McPherson is a perfect 7-for-7 on field goal attempts this preseason, including a 58-yarder in the second quarter. Watch the kick below.

Evan McPherson is 7-for-7 this preseason, including this 58-yard field goal. pic.twitter.com/P43y4Pz7sA
— James Rapien (@JamesRapien) August 26, 2023

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