The Washington Commanders vs Bengals match player stats from their preseason Week 2 encounter on August 18, 2025, gave fans plenty to analyze. While preseason contests don’t affect the regular season record, they play a crucial role in evaluating roster depth, testing new schemes, and allowing rookies and backups to prove their worth. In this game, the Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Washington Commanders 31–17, but the real story lay in individual performances, emerging talents, and positional battles.
This article takes an in-depth look at the Washington Commanders vs Bengals match player stats, analyzing quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, defenses, and special teams. It also highlights which players helped their stock and which left question marks as both teams prepare for the 2025 NFL season.
Game Recap: Commanders vs Bengals
The matchup was full of energy from the opening series. The Bengals, led briefly by Joe Burrow, established rhythm through quick throws and precision. Washington countered with an impressive rushing attack, including rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels’ memorable touchdown scramble.
Cincinnati’s depth proved decisive, especially with Jake Browning connecting multiple times with wideout Mitchell Tinsley. On the Commanders’ side, their running backs flashed explosiveness but inconsistent quarterback play cost them scoring opportunities.
By the end of four quarters, the Bengals’ efficient passing game and opportunistic defense allowed them to secure a 31–17 victory,.
Quarterback Performance
Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals
Burrow, the franchise cornerstone, played limited snaps but looked sharp in his brief outing. He completed 9 of 14 passes for 62 yards and delivered a touchdown to Charlie Jones. His timing and quick decision-making reassured Bengals fans that he’s ready for the season.
Jake Browning – Bengals Backup QB
The backup spotlight belonged to Browning, who showcased command of the offense. He completed 16 of 25 passes for 159 yards and threw two touchdowns to Mitchell Tinsley. Browning’s performance reassured coaches that the Bengals’ QB room is solid if Burrow were to miss time.
Jayden Daniels – Washington Commanders Rookie QB
Daniels, Washington’s first-round rookie, only played one series but made it count. He didn’t attempt a pass but scrambled for a 14-yard rushing touchdown. His ability to extend plays with his legs excited fans, even in limited action.
Josh Johnson & Sam Hartman – Commanders Backups
Behind Daniels, the Commanders rotated veteran Josh Johnson and rookie Sam Hartman. Both struggled to create offensive rhythm. They combined for under 100 passing yards and each threw an interception, leaving Washington with concerns about passing depth.
Running Backs: A Tale of Explosiveness
Chris Rodriguez Jr. – Commanders
Rodriguez led Washington’s ground game with 62 yards on six carries. His ability to find gaps and run with power showed promise. Coaches likely see him as a strong rotational option.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt – Commanders
The undrafted rookie stole attention with 46 rushing yards on 11 carries and a touchdown. His vision and burst allowed Washington to sustain drives, proving he could fight for a roster spot.
Tahj Brooks – Bengals
For Cincinnati, Brooks logged 47 yards on 11 carries, showing consistency and good field vision. While not flashy, his ability to move the chains provided balance to the Bengals’ offense.
Wide Receiver & Tight End Highlights
Mitchell Tinsley – Bengals
Tinsley was the star of the night among receivers. He caught 5 passes for 73 yards and 2 touchdowns, quickly becoming Browning’s go-to target. His ability to separate and finish plays elevated his stock.
Charlie Jones – Bengals
Jones contributed with Burrow’s touchdown connection. His chemistry with Burrow hints at a bigger role this season.
Commanders’ Receiving Corps
Washington’s receivers had a quieter evening, but a few names stood out:
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Jaylin Lane recorded 42 receiving yards, showing promise as a depth piece.
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Tay Martin grabbed one reception for 15 yards.
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Cole Turner (TE) impressed with blocking and short receptions, adding versatility.
Defensive Contributions
Bengals Defense
The Bengals’ defense made game-changing plays:
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Rookie linebacker Barrett Carter recorded an interception, turning momentum.
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Safety Tycen Anderson also added a pick, stifling Commanders’ drives.
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Their pass rush consistently pressured Washington’s quarterbacks, leading to turnovers.
Commanders Defense
Washington’s defense struggled to contain Browning and Tinsley, but several players flashed:
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The front seven generated occasional pressure, but coverage breakdowns hurt.
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Young players rotated in, offering valuable film for roster decisions.
Special Teams Performance
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Evan McPherson (Bengals Kicker): Nailed a 54-yard field goal, silencing doubts after an inconsistent 2024 campaign.
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Commanders Special Teams: Coverage units performed adequately, though their return game lacked explosiveness.
Emerging Storylines from Player Stats
Commanders’ Rushing Identity
Despite losing the game, Washington’s ground game was a bright spot. They finished with 185 total rushing yards, powered by Rodriguez, Croskey-Merritt, and Daniels. This identity could shape their regular-season offense, especially with an untested QB room.
Bengals’ Depth Advantage
The Bengals’ ability to rely on Browning, Tinsley, and Brooks demonstrated depth and readiness beyond their starters. This depth is vital for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
Roster Battles
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Commanders’ RB room is competitive; Rodriguez and Croskey-Merritt both impressed.
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Bengals’ WR depth is crowded, but Tinsley’s two-touchdown performance strengthens his roster case.
What the Stats Reveal
The Washington Commanders vs Bengals match player stats underline several key lessons:
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Washington needs QB consistency beyond Daniels’ rushing ability.
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Their running backs look strong, a promising sign for 2025.
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Cincinnati’s passing attack remains elite, even with backups.
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Defensive turnovers by the Bengals were game-changing.
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Special teams stability boosts Cincinnati’s playoff outlook.
Final Thoughts
The Washington Commanders vs Bengals match player stats gave fans a glimpse into both teams’ future. Cincinnati showed balance, depth, and defensive opportunism, while Washington leaned on its ground game and rookie sparks. Though preseason records don’t carry weight, performances like these shape rosters and hint at potential regular-season strategies.
As both teams prepare for September, the Bengals appear polished and deep, while the Commanders are building around their rushing strengths and developing their young quarterback.
This breakdown of the Washington Commanders vs Bengals match player stats captures not just numbers but the emerging stories behind them. For more detailed sports coverage and in-depth player analysis, visit The Globe Gist.
Q1. Who was the top performer for the Bengals in the Commanders vs Bengals game?
Mitchell Tinsley stood out for the Bengals with 5 receptions for 73 yards and 2 touchdowns, making him the most impactful offensive player of the game.
Q2. How did Joe Burrow perform against the Commanders?
Joe Burrow played briefly but efficiently, completing 9 of 14 passes for 62 yards and a touchdown before handing over to the backups.
Q3. Which Commanders player impressed the most?
Chris Rodriguez Jr. impressed with 62 rushing yards on just six carries, while rookie QB Jayden Daniels excited fans with a 14-yard rushing touchdown.
Q4. How did the Commanders’ quarterbacks perform overall?
Outside of Daniels’ rushing score, both Josh Johnson and Sam Hartman struggled. They combined for under 100 passing yards and threw two interceptions.
Q5. What was the final score of the Commanders vs Bengals match?
The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Washington Commanders 31–17 in the preseason Week 2 matchup.
Q6. Did the Commanders’ running game show potential?
Yes, Washington’s ground attack was a major highlight with 185 total rushing yards, led by Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Jacory Croskey-Merritt.
Q7. Which defensive players made an impact?
For the Bengals, Barrett Carter and Tycen Anderson each recorded an interception. Washington’s defense had flashes but struggled to contain Cincinnati’s passing game.
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