Ja’Marr Chase just hauled in his second touchdown of the day, an absolute bullet from Joe Burrow for 18 yards, and the Bengals are now running away with a 17-3 lead in the third quarter. With 3:03 left on the clock, it’s clear something clicked big-time for Chase today after a quiet season opener.
Chase Explodes After Week 1 Head-Scratcher
Remember that season opener? Yeah, we all do. Chase only snagged two catches for a measly 12 yards. It was a head-scratcher, no doubt, especially for a receiver of his caliber. But today? Totally different story. He’s already stacked up six receptions for 70 yards, including that electrifying 32-yard poster catch for his first touchdown where he absolutely roasted Texans cornerback Derek Stingley. This isn’t just a good game; this is a statement. Last year, we saw a similar pattern: a quiet Week 1 with just two catches for 26 yards, followed by a monster Week 2 against the Jaguars where he went off for 14 receptions, 165 yards, and a score. Is this his new thing? Shaking off the rust then exploding? It sure feels like it.
Burrow’s Back, But Still Balling Out
And let’s not forget Joe Burrow in all this. Dude was limited in two of the three practices last week, nursing a back injury. You gotta wonder if that was going to slow him down, right? Nope. He’s out there slinging it, currently 17-of-25 for 179 yards and two touchdowns. That kind of performance, especially with a nagging injury, shows you what kind of grit this guy has. He’s connecting with his playmakers, getting the ball where it needs to be, and making sure Chase gets his targets.
This connection between Burrow and Chase, even with Burrow’s back issues, is what makes this offense tick. After a sluggish Week 1, seeing Chase put up these numbers and Burrow looking sharp is exactly what you want to see. You have to wonder if this performance today sets the tone for a big run, proving that Week 1 was just a fluke.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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