Tee Higgins is back-and he wasted no time reminding everyone just how important he is to this Bengals offense.
After missing several games with concussion issues, the wideout made his return against the Dolphins and immediately made his presence felt. Late in the first quarter, just moments after Miami struck first with a 48-yard sprint to the end zone by De’Von Achane, Cincinnati answered right back. Joe Burrow found Higgins on a crisp 9-yard touchdown pass to even the score, and just like that, the Bengals had some life.
This isn’t just a feel-good moment-it’s a significant one for a team that’s spent much of the season searching for stability. The Bengals have been navigating a stormy stretch, both on and off the field.
Questions have swirled around the futures of head coach Zac Taylor and quarterback Joe Burrow, especially after Burrow made some eyebrow-raising comments about his happiness in Cincinnati. That kind of uncertainty can shake a locker room, but moments like Higgins' touchdown can offer a much-needed jolt of energy.
Despite missing time this season, Higgins has remained a red-zone weapon. His stat line-46 catches, nine of them touchdowns-might not jump off the page in terms of volume, but the efficiency speaks volumes.
When he's on the field, he produces. Simple as that.
The chemistry between Burrow, Higgins, and Ja’Marr Chase has been one of the most dynamic offensive trios in the league since they teamed up in Cincinnati. That connection helped power a Super Bowl run in 2022, where they came within a few plays of taking down the Rams.
But since then, it’s been a frustrating ride. With a 4-10 record heading into Sunday, the Bengals are staring down a third straight season without a playoff berth.
Still, there’s value in finishing strong. Winning out won’t change the postseason picture, but it can set the tone for the offseason. It can restore a little bit of swagger, reestablish some trust in the locker room, and maybe even quiet the noise surrounding the franchise-at least for a while.
As the second half kicks off, the Bengals hold a slim 17-14 lead over Miami. It’s not just about the scoreboard right now-it’s about pride, progress, and proving that this group, when healthy and locked in, still has something to say.