The Cincinnati Bengals have a critical game already in Week 4 of the NFL season against the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football. The orange and black head to Mile High to face a ferocious pass rush that could pose issues for an offensive line that has been underwhelming, to say the least. The rushing attack has to get going if Jake Browning is to have any chance at getting Cincinnati to 3-1. The Playmakers on this squad must step up as well if Zac Taylor’s group is to pull what seems like an upset with how bad the offense was against the Minnesota Vikings. Let’s examine three players who need to shine the brightest on Monday Night Football.
The Bengals Playmakers Need to Shine on Monday Night Football
Ja’Marr Chase
The All-Pro wideout is having a solid start to 2025, but Taylor still isn’t getting him the ball enough, which always seems to be the case early in seasons. Chase is at 21 receptions for an average of 11.5 ypc with 241 yards receiving and one touchdown. Look for the Bengals to get him involved early and often against the Broncos to help take pressure off both the offensive line and Browning. This may also open up running lanes for Chase Brown if WR1 starts to get hot. Taylor would be thrilled for all of the above as the night goes on.
Tee Higgins
The Robin of the Bengals’ wide receiving duo could be the most important playmaker at the moment. Higgins does all the little things that pay huge dividends in the end. The loss of Joe Burrow might actually affect him the most, as Tee’s ability to box out defenders and use his excellent hands on contested catches was clutch. Browning has to give Higgins the same opportunities to win if the offense is going to be at its best. Tee’s time is coming, as he noted this week, “I know it’s going to come my way. I’ve always been like that. When the ball comes my way, I’ve just got to make a play on it. I’ve got to take advantage of every opportunity I get.”
Trey Hendrickson
The best defensive player on the roster has to start taking over games if the Bengals are going to get back on track. Hendrickson needs more assistance, and it may be coming in the form of third-year player Myles Murphy, who is starting to turn a corner on the other side. If Murphy and Joseph Ossai can provide meaningful snaps and pressure, it will allow Hendrickson to wreak havoc and close out games in the fourth quarter.
When times are tough, you need your best players to lead the way. There’s no better time for the stars to align than on MNF for the world to see.
Main Photo: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
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