Jake Browning takes sweet revenge as Bengals topple Vikings for third straight win

Jake Browning’s NFL journey began as a college free agent signee with the Minnesota Vikings in 2019, spending his initial two seasons on their practice squad. However, in 2021, the Vikings released Browning from their practice squad. Seizing the opportunity, the Cincinnati Bengals added him to their practice squad, and he eventually earned the role of Joe Burrow’s backup for the current season.

After facing the challenge of Burrow’s season-ending injury, Browning stepped into the spotlight, shouldering the responsibility with determination. Remarkably, under Browning’s leadership, the Bengals have embarked on a triumphant three-game winning streak, culminating in a victory against the very Vikings team that once saw no value in him.

Jake Browning enjoys payback with win against Vikings

Jake Browning, who recently got a special treat from Burrow, led the Cincinnati Bengals to a stunning comeback victory against the Minnesota Vikings, boosting their playoff aspirations in a thrilling 27-24 triumph. Since taking over for the sidelined Burrow, Jake has showcased his mettle as the Bengals’ starting quarterback.

With a remarkable 3-1 record, the signal-caller quarterback has not only kept the team afloat but has also become a central figure in their playoff push.  After facing the Minnesota Vikings, Browning sealed three fourth-quarter touchdowns, propelling the game into overtime. The Bengals’ playoff hopes hung in the balance, and Browning delivered a performance that exceeded expectations. 

Nevertheless, for Jake Browning, the victory held personal significance, considering his previous stint with the Minnesota Vikings. Recalling the tough moments when he was cut by the team following their win, he shared his inner feelings for the Vikings team for which he wasted his two prospective NFL seasons.

“I remember getting cut there (Minnesota) the last time, and just being told, ‘Hey, we might have a spot for you on the practice squad. They didn’t tell me. I had been there for two years. I’ve been cut my fair share of times, and that was probably the (crappiest) one.”

After sealing the victory with a game-winning field goal, Browning couldn’t hide his elation. In a candid moment, he shouted at a camera, declaring Viking’s fault for neglecting such a gem for two years.

“I think, right after we made the field goal to win the game, I screamed at a camera and said, ‘They never should have cut me!'”

Against the Vikings, Browning’s statistical brilliance was evident. By throwing for 184 yards and two touchdowns in the crucial fourth quarter and overtime, he joined an elite group of quarterbacks accomplishing similar feats in the past two years. 

Bengals edge Vikings in key victory

Week 15 saw the Bengals overcome a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter to secure a 27-24 victory over the Vikings. Evan McPherson’s 29-yard field goal with 3:11 left in overtime sealed the win, according to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Despite facing a third-and-18 in overtime, quarterback Browning showcased his resilience, launching a 30-yard pass to Tee Higgins, who appeared to be mangled on the play.

Browning’s remarkable performance included three fourth-quarter touchdowns, finishing regulation 28 of 39 for 280 yards. He outdueled Vikings quarterback Nick Mullens making his first start in two years, with a final stat line of 29 of 42, two touchdowns, an interception, and a passer rating of 97.7.

Tee Higgins played a pivotal role, making a spectacular 16-yard touchdown catch in regulation and contributing to the overtime victory. Browning’s connection with Tyler Boyd for a 44-yard completion set the stage for McPherson’s game-ending field goal.

The Bengals secured the win in overtime after a crucial fourth-and-1 stop. Tyler Boyd and Higgins stepped up in the absence of Ja’Marr Chase, who left the game with a shoulder injury.

The Bengals (8-6) gear up for a Week 16 clash with the Pittsburgh Steelers, while the Vikings (7-7) take on the Detroit Lions.