Patriots vs. Bengals 2013 results: Cincinnati wins with defense, 13-6
Cincinnati’s pass rush and running game was too much for the New England Patriots who lost for the first time in 2013.
Tom Brady and Andy Dalton both struggled, turning Sunday's game between the New England Patriots and Cincinnati Bengals into a defensive affair. The Cincinnati Bengals pass rush was too much for Brady, though, and the Bengals won 13-6.
Brady finished the first half with just 90 yards and looked uncomfortable in the pocket when faced with an overwhelming Bengals’ pass rush. New England lifted their offensive tempo in the second half, but the result remained the same -- there just wasn’t enough help for Brady. Julian Edelman dropped a vital touchdown pass with six minutes left in the game, sealing the upset for the Bengals.
It remains unclear what kind of quarterback Dalton will be. He can make all the throws one wants to see from a franchise quarterback, but he also makes inexcusable mistakes. One of these occurred late in the first half when Dalton threw across his body into double coverage, resulting in an interception.
Things changed in the second half. There were still plenty of confusing moments from Dalton as the third-year quarterback didn’t react to pressure correctly, but he made enough throws when it counted to allow his team to take the lead.
The Patriots had a chance in the dying moments with a late drive in the rain, but an interception from Brady sealed the victory.
Injury report
Tommy Kelly left the game for a few series with an apparent knee injury, but was able to return to action. His status will be something to watch in the upcoming week.
Fantasy studs and duds
A.J. Green caught passes, but was unable to do anything in the red zone. He was a letdown in everything but PPR leagues, finishing with five receptions for 61 yards.
Tom Brady was the fantasy dud. The lack of weapons and protection derailed the offense. The normally reliable quarterback was let down, finishing with just 197 passing yards and an interception.
Did they cover?
New England was a two-point favorite, according to OddsShark. They lost outright.
What’s next?
10/13: New England vs. New Orleans
10/13: Cincinnati vs. Buffalo
