The Browns opened the season in a tough divisional game against the Bengals, one which started off with two long opening offensive drives for both teams.
However, two key turnovers by the Browns, as well as a missed extra point and field goal, played a role in keeping points off the board for Cleveland. Ultimately, it led to a 17-16 loss to the Bengals in Week 1.
"It hurts when you feel like you're doing some good things," head coach Kevin Stefanski said. "Now having said that, we have a position, where we have a division game next week, right back at it. So, this team understands that these hurt, but we'll learn from it. We'll watch the tape, recommit to those things and understand that we have to do a better job in a bunch of different areas. But really proud of a lot of the performance from these guys. Proud of effort from these guys. But man, it's just frustrating not to come out with a win."
Here are the three main takeaways from their Week 1 loss to the Bengals.
Losing the turnover battle
The Browns meticulously moved the ball down the field through the air, relying on yards after the catch early in the game. They found success in short passes in the pass game, as the Bengals struggled throughout the game to tackle the Browns. They totaled 278 total net passing yards against the Bengals, with WR Jerry Jeudy leading the receiving corps with 66 yards on five receptions.
The Browns also had two rookies who played an important role in the success of the pass game in RB Dylan Sampson and TE Harold Fannin Jr. Sampson recorded eight receptions for 64 yards while Fannin totaled seven receptions for 63 yards.
However, as they attacked the Bengals' defense through the air, QB Joe Flacco and his receivers struggled to connect on a handful of passes. They had dropped passes, and the first interception came in the third quarter off an incompletion to Jeudy that was dropped and recovered by S Jordan Battle, setting the Bengals up for a field goal. The second interception occurred with less than two minutes left in the game on a pass intended for WR Cedric Tillman. The ball bounced off his hands and gave the Bengals the ball back for one last offensive drive.
"Can't be minus-2 (on turnovers) versus a very good football team. That's the story of the game," Stefanski said. "Jerry and Ced are two of our best receivers. We are counting on them. We will always be counting on them, and they will come through for this football team, I have zero doubt about that."
Flacco finished the game completing 31-of-45 passing attempts for 290 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. He noted that part of his job as the Browns begin preparing for Week 2 is to provide motivation to the team, and especially the offense, to build upon the areas they succeeded and improve on the areas they struggled in Week 1.
"I'm wishing that I had the ball a little bit better and, maybe I'm wishing I just threw it on his chest as opposed to doing what I did," Flacco said. "You're going to have plays where you look back on and think about and, those guys, they played a really strong game for us today. Like I said, I think when you look at this film, you're going to see a lot of guys that did a lot of really good things. We just had some (missed assignments) that really, really bit us."
Browse action photos from the Browns' 2025 Week 1 game against the Cincinnati Bengals, featuring top plays and moments.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Isaiah McGuire (57) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Grant Delpit (9) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The defense during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The offense during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive guard Joel Bitonio (75) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Maliek Collins (96), Linebacker Devin Bush (30), and Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The offense during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive tackle Jack Conklin (78) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive guard Joel Bitonio (75) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Raheim Sanders (35) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive guard Joel Bitonio (75) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Raheim Sanders (35) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Dylan Sampson (22) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end David Njoku (85) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) and Running back Raheim Sanders (35) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end David Njoku (85) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The defense during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Easton Mascarenas-Arnold (42) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Myles Harden (26) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Mohamoud Diabate (43) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive guard Wyatt Teller (77) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Dylan Sampson (22) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Raheim Sanders (35) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Head Coach Kevin Stefanski during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Long snapper Rex Sunahara (50) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas (71) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Kicker Andre Szmyt (25) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive lineman Adin Huntington (98) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Rayshawn Jenkins (5) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Grant Delpit (9) and Defensive lineman Adin Huntington (98) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive guard Joel Bitonio (75) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive lineman Adin Huntington (98) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Kicker Andre Szmyt (25) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end David Njoku (85) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Center Ethan Pocic (55) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end David Njoku (85) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Center Ethan Pocic (55) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The offense during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive tackle Dawand Jones (79) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end David Njoku (85) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Dylan Sampson (22) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Grant Delpit (9) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Dylan Sampson (22) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) and Defensive end Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (90) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive tackle Dawand Jones (79) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Fans during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Dylan Sampson (22) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Denzel Ward (21) and Safety Rayshawn Jenkins (5) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) and Defensive tackle Shelby Harris (93) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Devin Bush (30) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Ronnie Hickman Jr. (33) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Grant Delpit (9) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Denzel Ward (21) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Maliek Collins (96) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The fans during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Alex Wright (91) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive back Jarrick Bernard-Converse (20) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Isaiah McGuire (57) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Jerome Baker (17) and Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Denzel Ward (21) and Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Head Coach Kevin Stefanski during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Grant Delpit (9) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Cedric Tillman (19) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Cameron Mitchell (29) and Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) during a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive line applies pressure in latter portion of the game
On the Bengals' opening offensive drive, QB Joe Burrow drove his offense down the field and into the end zone over a 12 play, 68-yard drive that took 7:28 off the clock. Burrow relied on HB Chase Brown throughout that first drive, eventually ending in a 5-yard touchdown run.
"We just had to figure it out and find a way to crack it open and then get me rolling," DE Myles Garrett said of the Bengals' first drive. "And I feel like one tackle can start to get my rhythm and find what works. It's really a snowball effect. And I was really inspired by the play of the other guys, making plays all across the field. Whether it was the front, it was the backers and the DB's – it was a little bit of everybody. So, I'm just happy to be able to step up in those moments. But we got to have more, and it's got to be quicker."
After the Bengals' first offensive drive, the Browns' defense began to settle in and find ways to limit their success in both the run and the pass game. Cincinnati ran a total of 49 offensive plays compared to the Browns' 71, converted 7-of-14 third-down attempts and had 11 first downs. The Bengals were forced to punt the ball six times over the course of the game.
About halfway through the fourth quarter, the Browns' defensive line turned their pressure on Burrow into sacks, recording three consecutive sacks. Garrett got off his blocks and brought Burrow to the ground on back-to-back plays, and DE Isaiah McGuire forced the Bengals to punt after her followed up with a sack of his own on Burrow.
"I kind of started a domino effect and everybody else wanted to get in on the party," Garrett said. "Zay (Isaiah McGuire), Mason (Graham). Those guys started collapsing their pocket and getting busy themselves. So, I'm happy to see them get rolling, and we just have to do a little bit sooner."
After giving up 134 total net yards in the first half, the Browns' defense gave up just seven yards in the second half. They held the Bengals to 141 total net yards, including 46 rushing yards and 95 passing yards.
Struggles in the kicking game
The Browns made a change at kicker when roster cut down occurred, keeping K Andre Szmyt as their kicker. Szmyt started off his regular season debut strong with an extra point to start off the second quarter following a 1-yard touchdown run by RB Raheim Sanders. Then, as the final 30 seconds of the first half ticked down, Szmyt hit a 45-year field goal attempt to pull the Browns within four points heading into half time.
However, he struggled in the second half of the game. In the third quarter after the Browns found the end zone for the first time, Szmyt missed the extra point following a 5-yard touchdown pass to WR Cedric Tillman, which put the Browns down two points to the Bengals.
Then, with 2:25 left in the fourth quarter, after the offense failed to convert on third down, Szmyt lined up for a 36-yard field goal attempt. However, the ball went wide right and kept the Browns from recapturing the lead.
"Points are at a premium, obviously. So that's frustrating," Stefanski said. "Andre had a really good camp. He's done a nice job for us."
Szmyt acknowledged his struggles both on the extra point and the field goal and said he rushed his approach and pushed the ball.
"I got to do better, and I expect better out of myself," Szmyt said. "Just try to forget about it and move on to next week."
Check out photos of Browns players warming up before their 2025 Week 1matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jamari Thrash (80) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The stadium before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas (71) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The stadium before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive tackle Dawand Jones (79) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas (71) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The stadium before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The stadium before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The stadium before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The locker room before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The locker room before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Jerome Ford (34) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The locker room before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The locker room before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Dylan Sampson (22) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The locker room before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive tackle Dawand Jones (79) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Punter Corey Bojorquez (13) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
The team before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (90) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
A fan before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Jerome Baker (17) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jamari Thrash (80) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Jerome Baker (17) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (90) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Jerome Baker (17) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Alex Wright (91) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Grant Delpit (9) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Alex Wright (91) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Grant Delpit (9) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Kicker Andre Szmyt (25) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Jerome Ford (34) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Kicker Andre Szmyt (25) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Punter Corey Bojorquez (13) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Myles Harden (26) and Cornerback Cameron Mitchell (29) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Safety Ronnie Hickman Jr. (33) and Cornerback Myles Harden (26) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Denzel Ward (21) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Greg Newsome II (0) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Long snapper Rex Sunahara (50) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Cameron Thomas (99) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end David Njoku (85) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end David Njoku (85) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Running back Jerome Ford (34) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Jerome Baker (17) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jamari Thrash (80) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Jerome Baker (17) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Head Coach Kevin Stefanski before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Maliek Collins (96) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Joe Flacco (15) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Wide receiver Isaiah Bond (16) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Cornerback Denzel Ward (21) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham (94) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Shelby Harris (93) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive guard Wyatt Teller (77) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive tackle Shelby Harris (93) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive end Myles Garrett (95) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Jerome Baker (17) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Tight end David Njoku (85) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Defensive lineman Adin Huntington (98) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Offensive guard Joel Bitonio (75) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
Linebacker Mohamoud Diabate (43) before a NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025 at Huntington Bank Field.
