The Bengals haven't had an ideal start to the 2024 season.
While dealing with the contract extension desires of star WR Ja'Marr Chase and an injury to their other top receiver, Tee Higgins (hamstring), Cincinnati fell to 0-2 after a 26-25 loss in Week 2 to the Chiefs.
Quarterback Joe Burrow naturally didn't seem too happy about the loss postgame. The Bengals will once again be climbing an uphill battle to return to the playoffs after their tough start through two games.
Here's what Burrow had to say after Sunday's loss to Kansas City, his numbers in the game, and his career record in early-season matchups.
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What did Joe Burrow say after loss to Chiefs?
The Bengals' loss came on a 51-yard game-winning field goal from Harrison Butker as time expired. Postgame, Burrow said the loss was "frustrating."
After a late defensive pass interference call in the game, Burrow was visibly upset on the sidelines.
When asked about facing the Chiefs again in the postseason, Burrow said the Bengals "have a lot" to improve on after their 0-2 start before they can think about that.
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Joe Burrow stats vs. Chiefs
In Sunday's game vs. Kansas City, Burrow finished with 258 yards on 23-of-36 passing with two touchdowns. On the ground, he had six carries for nine yards. Both of his touchdown passes went to second-year receiver Andrei Iosivas.
Cincinnati hasn't been able to pull out a win in the season's first two weeks. In Week 1, Burrow had 164 yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions in a 16-10 loss to the Patriots.
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Bengals' record in Weeks 1 and 2
In his five-year career, Burrow is 1-9 in Weeks 1 and 2 of the season. He has started the season 0-2 in four of his five seasons.
Burrow's only win in the early season came in Week 1 of 2021, when the Bengals beat the Vikings 27-24 in overtime.
The reason behind Cincinnati's consistent early-season struggles are unclear. In past seasons, they've been able to overcome the slow starts to eventually make the playoffs, including their trip to the Super Bowl in the 2021 season.
Fighting to get a playoff spot late in the season is nothing new for the Bengals. It remains to be seen if they can pull it off again, but Burrow and company nonetheless have work to do as the season continues.