Instant analysis from Bears' 27-9 preseason loss to Bengals

August 23, 2026 - 08:00

The Chicago Bears wrapped up their second preseason contest with a 27-9 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, and for anyone hoping to see signs of progress from the starting unit, the night was mostly a letdown. The final score, however, tells only part of the story. The Bears' first-team offense managed just three points in the first half, and the rhythm that fans wanted to see from the new scheme simply never materialized.

Quarterback play was the main concern. The starting signal-caller looked hesitant in the pocket, often checking down short of the sticks on third down. There were a couple of nice throws down the seam, but they were overshadowed by a fumbled snap and a near interception that would have been returned for a score. The offensive line, still missing a key starter, gave up consistent pressure on the edges. That made it tough for any play to develop, and the running game found little room between the tackles.

The defense, on the other hand, had some bright spots early. The front seven got a good push against the Bengals' backups, and there was a nice tackle for loss on a screen play that showed good discipline. But the secondary got burned on a deep ball late in the second quarter, a blown coverage that led to an easy touchdown. That kind of mental mistake is what the coaching staff will be frustrated about on the film.

Special teams were a mixed bag. The kicker connected on his only field goal attempt, but a muffed punt in the third quarter set up a short field for Cincinnati, who turned it into another score. That kind of sloppy play is exactly what preseason is supposed to iron out, but it still leaves a sour taste.

The Bears will have plenty to work on before the regular season starts. The biggest takeaway is that the offense needs to find some consistency, and fast. The starters are likely done for the preseason after this one, so the next time they take the field together, it will count for real.