Lions secondary earns major praise from Bengals foe ahead of Week 5
Jake Browning is not having a fun time as of late.
The Cincinnati Bengals quarterback has stepped into a tough situation, coming on in relief of star quarterback Joe Burrow who is down for three months with turf toe. Browning, a 29 year old veteran, has been struggling to spark a Bengals offense that could've been, on paper, one of the most electric in the NFL in 2025.
Instead, they're one of the worst.
Ranked 32nd in total offense and 30th in passing headed into their bout with the Lions, the Bengals are relying heavily on Browning to piece something worth getting excited about together against a tight Detroit secondary. That's something he's extremely aware of, especially given the flowers he gave the Lions defense ahead of the game on Sunday.
Browning praises Lions secondary ahead of Week 5
Lions team reporter Tim Twentyman shared that Browning told reporters this week that the Lions' secondary has impressed him beyond belief, partially indicating some fear headed into the game on Browning's part.
"Asked what he's seen from Detroit's defense on tape this week, Browning said one of the things that really stands out is how the Lions secondary really comes up and challenges at the line of scrimmage in the pass game. He talked about the front seven for the Lions being very good and the defensive backs being 'scrappy as hell.' He called out cornerback Amik Robertson in particular in that regard."
Browning is currently posting a 42.4 QBR along with three touchdowns, five interceptions, and 506 passing yards in three games played so far for Cincinnati. The same issues that were plaguing the Bengals before Burrow's injury continue to plague Browning - their offensive line just completely struggling to contain any pass rush.
But, to Browning's point, the Lions' secondary could pose even more problems for a turnover prone Browning, as players like Robertson and Brian Branch often being at the scene of a defended pass or a turnover because of how closely they defend at the line of scrimmage.
Their ability to turn this game on its head early is going to be critical to ensuring this doesn't end up a trap game for Detroit, and Browning is clearly beyond aware of that. Could Detroit's lack of depth at cornerback impact this effectiveness?
We have to wait and see, but knowing how strongly the next man up mentality defines their defense, it doesn't seem like Browning is about to catch a break.
After 33–16 Win, Dak Prescott Stuns Everyone by Comforting a Devastated Ashton Jeanty on the Sideline
Arlington, Texas — In a charged Week 11 showdown that ended 33–16 in favor of the Dallas Cowboys, the most unforgettable moment didn’t come from Dak Prescott’s touchdowns or the Cowboys’ defensive dominance. It came
Ashton Jeanty, the Raiders’ explosive young playmaker, remained on the bench long after the final whistle. He had fought through a frustrating night — big hits, stalled drives, and a late fumble that sealed Las Vegas’ fate. Despite his relentless effort, the Raiders’ offense never found rhythm, and the weight of the loss settled heavily on his shoulders.
Jeanty sat still, helmet beside him, staring down at the turf as teammates slowly walked toward the tunnel.
Then Dak Prescott walked over.
Fresh off leading the Cowboys to a commanding
Dak gently placed a hand on Jeanty’s shoulder.
Ashton looked up, eyes red and full of frustration.
Prescott leaned in, pulled him into a firm, reassuring embrace, and whispered something only the two of them could hear.
According to a Raiders staffer nearby, Dak told him:
“You’re a special player, man. Don’t let one game break you. Keep pushing — your time is coming.”
Jeanty nodded, swallowing hard, giving Dak a grateful pat on the back.
In the Raiders’ locker room, Jeanty later spoke about the moment:
“Dak didn’t owe me anything… but he came over anyway. That meant a lot. He’s a competitor, but he showed he’s an even better man.”
On the Cowboys’ side, Prescott kept the message simple:
“Ashton’s got real talent. I’ve been in that spot before — feeling like the whole world’s against you. I just wanted him to know he’s not alone.”
The Cowboys’ 33–16 Week 11 win tightened their playoff push, but the moment dominating headlines isn’t the scoreline.
It’s Dak Prescott crossing the field to comfort a devastated Ashton Jeanty
Because sometimes, football’s most powerful moment is the one that happens after the game is over.
