Patriots Overcome Adversity to Defeat Bengals 26-20

On November 23, 2025, the New England Patriots secured a hard-fought 26-20 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. The win marked the Patriots' ninth consecutive victory, improving their record to 10-2, while the Bengals fell to 3-8, suffering their fourth straight loss. The game was characterized by early struggles for the Patriots, who found themselves trailing 10-0 after a pick-six thrown by rookie quarterback Drake Maye. However, Maye rebounded, passing for 294 yards and a touchdown, while the Patriots' defense contributed with a pick-six of their own from cornerback Marcus Jones.

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The Patriots faced significant challenges due to injuries, particularly on their offensive line. Will Campbell, the No. 4 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, suffered a serious knee injury during the game, while left guard Jared Wilson was sidelined with an ankle injury. These injuries raised concerns about the Patriots' ability to maintain their offensive performance as they head into the playoff stretch. In contrast, the Bengals were without their star quarterback Joe Burrow, who was still recovering from a turf toe injury, and wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, who was serving a suspension.

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Drake Maye's performance was a mixed bag; despite completing 22 of 35 passes, he struggled early on, throwing a critical interception that led to a Bengals touchdown. However, he managed to regain his composure, leading the Patriots to a comeback. On the other hand, Joe Flacco, filling in for Burrow, faced difficulties as well. He threw two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown, and failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities, ultimately leading to the Bengals' defeat.

Recap of the Bengals falling short of their comeback vs. Patriots 26-20

The Bengals' defense showed resilience, particularly in goal-line situations, where they managed to stop the Patriots multiple times. However, the Patriots' inability to convert on seven snaps from the Bengals' 1-yard line highlighted ongoing issues with their goal-line offense, which has been a concern throughout the season. The Patriots entered the game ranked low in red zone efficiency, and this performance did little to improve those statistics.

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Despite the victory, the Patriots' performance raised questions about their ability to compete against stronger teams in the playoffs, especially given their struggles in the red zone and the injuries to key players. Conversely, the Bengals face a critical juncture in their season, with Burrow's potential return looming as they prepare for a Thanksgiving matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. The absence of Burrow and Chase has severely impacted their offensive capabilities, leaving the team in a precarious position as they seek to salvage their season.

Patriots Wire staff predictions for Patriots-Bengals Week 12 game

• “Simply put, it’s a lot harder to replace a left tackle than an interior lineman — especially since Campbell had been playing well.” — Chad Graff, Patriots beat writer

New York Times

• “The Bengals just didn’t have the horses or the execution to compete with a quality Patriots team.” — Paul Dehner, Bengals beat writer

New York Times

• “This loss really hits hard as you have to wonder what if Burrow and/or others are able to actually play.” — Bengals analysis

Recap of the Bengals falling short of their comeback vs. Patriots 26-20

The Patriots' victory over the Bengals not only solidified their position as a top contender in the AFC but also highlighted the challenges both teams face as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Patriots Wire staff predictions for Patriots-Bengals Week 12 game