Joe Burrow Experiences Horrible NFL History Following the Bengals’ Comeback Loss to the Chargers
In a game that showcased thrilling action and dramatic twists, the Cincinnati Bengals fell to the Los Angeles Chargers in a heartbreaking 34-31 loss on Sunday. While the defeat was devastating for the team’s playoff aspirations, it also etched quarterback Joe Burrow into the record books in a way no player wants: as the first quarterback in NFL history to lose three games in a single season after leading by 17 or more points.
The Bengals entered the matchup riding a wave of momentum, and Burrow’s leadership was a major reason why. Early in the game, Cincinnati seemed poised for a dominant performance. Burrow connected with wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase for two electrifying touchdowns, and Joe Mixon added a rushing score to give the Bengals a commanding 24-7 lead late in the second quarter. The offense was clicking, and the home crowd at Paycor Stadium could feel victory within reach.
However, the Chargers, led by Justin Herbert, mounted an incredible second-half comeback. The Bengals’ defense, which has been inconsistent all season, faltered under the pressure. Herbert threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, including a 45-yard bomb to Keenan Allen that swung the momentum. The Chargers also capitalized on two costly turnovers by Burrow, including a pick-six and a fumble deep in Bengals territory.
The loss leaves Cincinnati with a 5-5 record and in a precarious position in the AFC playoff race. For Burrow, it marks another frustrating chapter in a season that has seen flashes of brilliance overshadowed by inconsistency and a lack of complementary support from the defense.
“To blow leads like this, it’s unacceptable,” Burrow said postgame. “We’ve got to figure out how to finish games. It’s on me to protect the football and put us in the best position to win.”
NFL historians were quick to note the statistical anomaly of Burrow’s misfortune. According to league records, no quarterback had previously lost three games in a single season after leading by at least 17 points. The losses, including earlier collapses against Baltimore and Houston, have raised questions about the team’s mental toughness and coaching adjustments.
While Burrow remains one of the league’s most talented quarterbacks, the Bengals must find a way to avoid repeating these devastating collapses if they hope to salvage their season. For now, the pain of Sunday’s loss lingers as a sobering reminder of how quickly things can unravel in the NFL.