Bengals Best Cardinals at State Farm Stadium in Week 5 Showdown

In a clash at State Farm Stadium, the Cincinnati Bengals emerged victorious over the Arizona Cardinals with a final score of 34-20. The Bengals improved their season record to 2-3, while the Cardinals fell to a challenging 1-4 start.

The Arizona Cardinals' offense had moments of effectiveness but struggled with consistency throughout the game. The team's passing game managed two touchdowns but was hindered by two interceptions and three sacks, culminating in a passer rating of just under 58. Despite these setbacks, they achieved an average gain of over five yards per play across their total play count of 57.

Arizona's ground attack was more productive, amassing an impressive average of over six yards per carry for a total rushing yardage of 142 on just 22 attempts. This included a longest run that broke free for 41 yards and one rushing touchdown from an eleven-yard dash into the end zone.

Special teams had mixed results; while punting averaged nearly fifty-five yards across four attempts, field goal units did not contribute points as no field goals were attempted during the game. The punt return unit managed to secure twenty-two yards on two returns.

Defensively, the Cardinals showed tenacity with three sacks totaling thirty lost yards for Cincinnati and nine tackles for loss amounting to forty-four negative yards against their opponents. They also forced one fumble and made one interception that was returned for two yards.

Despite these efforts by Arizona's defense and special teams, penalties proved costly with sixteen penalty yards from only two infractions affecting momentum at critical junctures.

Looking ahead after this tough home defeat, fans can mark their calendars as the Arizona Cardinals will face off against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on October 15th at 1:25 PM local time. This matchup will be broadcasted live on FOX where supporters can tune in to follow their team’s next performance.