After Cincinnati’s 33-27 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Chase was limited to two receptions on four targets for 12 yards—an unusually quiet performance for one of the team’s premier playmakers. In the days that followed, Pitcher acknowledged that Chase’s touches needed to increase.
“We didn’t throw him the ball enough. Pretty simple. We’ve got to throw him the ball more,” Pitcher said. “He’s the best receiver in the world.” Pitcher also noted that Chase was among the first players he spoke with after the game, underscoring the team’s awareness of his limited involvement.
Chase faced extra attention from Tampa Bay’s defense, which prioritized slowing him down and shaded coverage in his direction. That approach opened opportunities for Cincinnati’s other receivers.
Mike Gesicki led the Bengals with five catches for 78 yards and a touchdown, while Tee Higgins added three receptions for 59 yards. Joe Burrow finished with 254 passing yards and a touchdown. Cincinnati still managed to win despite Chase and Burrow not producing their typical numbers, and the defense contributed to the victory by forcing four fumbles, converting opponent mistakes into 24 points.
Pitcher’s remarks suggest the Bengals are intent on creating a more balanced attack and not relying on one player to carry the offense weekly.
Upcoming challenge comes in Week 2, as Cincinnati travels to Houston to face the Texans. Houston’s defense will need to contend with both Chase and Higgins. Pitcher described the dilemma for opposing defenses: “Pick your poison a little bit.” When extra resources are devoted to one receiver, opportunities can arise for others.
Houston is preparing to defend against Cincinnati’s dynamic receiving duo after facing a tough test in Week 1. The Texans will have to balance assignments between Chase and Higgins, while Cincinnati looks to exploit any over-corrections by Houston’s secondary.
For Chase, the goal is straightforward: convert more of those target opportunities into production. The Bengals have indicated a willingness to ensure their star receiver gets more touches, aiming to unlock a more complete offensive performance.
Cincinnati demonstrated the ability to win without a dominant performance from Chase, but Week 2 will reveal whether the offense can operate at peak efficiency with Chase more consistently involved.
