Bengals Top Bears 27-9 Behind Josh Johnson’s 2 TDs

The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Chicago Bears 27-9 on Saturday, August 22, behind Josh Johnson’s efficient two-touchdown passing performance in a preseason victory at Paycor Stadium.

Cincinnati turned a tight opening quarter into a comfortable result, moving to 2-0 in the 2026 preseason while Chicago fell to 1-1. The teams were level at 3-3 after one quarter, but the Bengals created separation with a 14-6 advantage in the second period. Cincinnati then added seven points in the third quarter and a field goal in the fourth, while its defense held the Bears scoreless throughout the second half.

Bengals take control after early tie

The first quarter offered little separation, with each club putting three points on the board. Chicago remained within striking distance at halftime, trailing 17-9, but Cincinnati’s 14-point second quarter proved to be the decisive stretch of the game.

Johnson supplied the clearest offensive spark for the Bengals. He completed 15 of 23 passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns, delivering a steady performance that gave Cincinnati an edge through the air. In a preseason setting where quarterback execution and offensive rhythm carry particular importance, Johnson consistently moved the Bengals offense and finished drives with touchdown throws.

The Bears could not find an answer after intermission. Chicago was held without a point in both the third and fourth quarters, allowing Cincinnati to protect its lead without needing a late-game comeback or a two-minute-drill finish. The Bengals’ 7-0 third-quarter edge effectively removed any remaining urgency from the final period, and their fourth-quarter field goal completed the 18-point win.

Key performers

Josh Johnson, Bengals: Johnson went 15/23 for 156 yards and two touchdowns. He was the game’s passing leader and the defining performer in Cincinnati’s preseason win, accounting for both Bengals scoring throws.

Roschon Johnson, Bears: Chicago’s rushing leader carried 12 times for 42 yards. His workload gave the Bears a dependable ground option, but Cincinnati’s second-half defensive showing prevented Chicago from turning that production into points.

Maurice Alexander, Bears: Alexander led all listed receivers with five receptions for 60 yards. He provided Chicago’s most productive receiving outlet, particularly valuable in a game where the Bears needed more consistent movement through the passing game.

NerdSports Stat: After the 3-3 first quarter, Cincinnati outscored Chicago 24-6 over the final three periods and blanked the Bears 10-0 in the second half.

For Cincinnati, the result reinforced a productive preseason start: the Bengals have now won each of their first two exhibitions and have shown the ability to create distance after a competitive opening stretch. For Chicago, the next point of emphasis is finishing possessions and sustaining offense beyond halftime after scoring all nine of its points before the break.

The Bengals will look to carry their 2-0 preseason record into a Friday, August 28 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. The Bears, now 1-1, will finish their preseason schedule against the Tennessee Titans on Saturday, August 29.

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