Main Story

The Bengals face Atlanta in Madrid with the challenge of containing NFL rushing leader Bijan Robinson. Cincinnati will lean on Dexter Lawrence, whose presence has sharply strengthened the run defense, while Ja’Marr Chase says the team is focused on staying composed and making the most of each play.

By the Numbers
  • Robinson leads the NFL in rushing and has 983 scrimmage yards—10 shy of Edgerrin James’ record for a player through age 25.
  • The Bengals allow a 31.3% rushing success rate with Lawrence on the field, best in the NFL; without him, it rises to 50.8%, worst in the league.
  • Lawrence has 10 run stuffs for a loss or no gain, the most by an NFL defensive lineman, and five sacks, tied for the most among defensive tackles.
  • Higgins ranks second in the league in receiving yards, while Chase ranks second in touchdown catches.
Yes, But

Cincinnati’s run defense ranks 20th overall and gave up 158 rushing yards to Tennessee last week, after holding Baltimore to 83. Atlanta had at least 100 rushing yards in each of its first five games but has fallen short in its last three.

State of Play
  • The Bengals are in Madrid for a matchup at Bernabéu Stadium, where a strong local and international Bengals fan presence is expected.
  • Cornerback DJ Turner II practiced fully after leaving last week’s game with a heel issue. Edge defender Cedric Johnson is questionable with an ankle injury.
  • Chase says he and coach Zac Taylor have talked, and he is urging the team to move on quickly from mistakes and focus on the next play.
What’s Next

The Bengals’ key test is whether Lawrence and the defense can keep Robinson from reaching the second level. On offense, Cincinnati will look to its productive Chase-Higgins connection and sharper execution to turn opportunities into touchdowns.

Bottom Line

Containing Robinson will require all 11 defenders—not just Lawrence—to stay disciplined and swarm. If Cincinnati does that while converting more offensive chances, it can build on last week’s emotional win.