Week 3 of the 2024 NFL season brings the first “Monday Night Football” doubleheader, featuring the Washington Commanders (1-1) facing the Cincinnati Bengals (0-2).
Washington earned its first win under head coach Dan Quinn in Week 2, despite not scoring a touchdown. The Commanders relied on six field goals to defeat the New York Giants 21-18. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has impressed, ranking third among starting quarterbacks in completion percentage (75.5%) entering Week 3. Washington also boasts the fifth-best rushing offense in the league, largely due to Daniels’ mobility.
Meanwhile, Cincinnati finds itself in an unexpected 0-2 hole after losses to New England and Kansas City. This continues their early-season struggles, with a 3-7 record in September since 2022. The Bengals could get a boost with wide receiver Tee Higgins returning from a hamstring injury after missing the first two games. Cincinnati’s defense has been strong, ranking second in the league in pass defense, allowing just 128.5 yards per game.
This matchup also marks the first game since 1981 to feature two former LSU Tigers as starting quarterbacks. Washington won the last meeting between these teams 20-9 in Week 11 of the 2020 season. Here’s a recap of key moments from the game:
Bengals’ Evan McPherson Misses 48-Yard Field Goal
After Tee Higgins’ catch set up a 48-yard field goal attempt, Bengals kicker Evan McPherson missed wide left, ending his streak of 29 consecutive field goals made from under 50 yards. Washington gets the ball back with a chance to take the lead.
End of First Quarter: Commanders, Bengals Tied
Both teams moved the ball effectively in the first quarter, with Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels combining to complete 11 of 12 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown. Neither defense has put up much resistance, setting the stage for a high-scoring contest.
Tee Higgins Makes First Catch in Return
Tee Higgins made his season debut after missing two games due to a hamstring injury. On Cincinnati’s second drive, he caught a 14-yard pass for a first down, showing his physicality by bouncing off a tackle.
Is Luke McCaffrey Related to Christian McCaffrey?
Yes, Luke McCaffrey is the younger brother of Christian McCaffrey. The Commanders’ rookie wide receiver, a third-round pick in 2024, started his career at Nebraska as a quarterback before switching to wide receiver to enhance his NFL prospects.
Brian Robinson Scores 1-Yard TD Run
The Commanders responded quickly to the Bengals’ opening score. Brian Robinson capped off an impressive drive with a 1-yard touchdown run, set up by a crucial Jayden Daniels pass to Luke McCaffrey on fourth-and-2, which took Washington down to the 2-yard line.
Austin Ekeler’s 14-Yard Screen Pass Gain
Austin Ekeler helped power Washington’s offense on their first drive, turning a screen pass that initially looked like a loss into a 14-yard gain for a first down, showing his agility and vision.
Joe Burrow Hits Ja’Marr Chase for 41-Yard Touchdown
Cincinnati struck first, with Joe Burrow connecting with Ja’Marr Chase on a 41-yard touchdown pass. Chase had two catches for 42 yards on the opening drive, showcasing his chemistry with Burrow from their LSU days.
Commanders vs. Bengals start time
- Date: Monday, Sept. 23, 2024
- Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
The Commanders vs. Bengals game will wrap up the first “Monday Night Football” doubleheader of the 2024 NFL season at 8:15 p.m. ET.
The Bills and Jaguars will also be playing Monday night, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30.
What channel is Monday Night Football on tonight?
- TV: ABC
- Live stream: ESPN+
The second game of the doubleheader between Washington Commanders vs. Cincinnati Bengals will be broadcast on ABC.
Joe Buck (play-by-play), Troy Aikman (color commentary), and Lisa Salters (sideline reporter) will be on the call for ABC’s broadcast.