In a local showcase for Cincinnati fans, the Bengals wrapped up a perfect preseason by defeating the Philadelphia Eagles 30-13 on Friday night. Veteran backup quarterback Josh Johnson threw for 156 yards in the first half, helping the Bengals build a comfortable lead.
Johnson, who sits behind starter Joe Burrow and backup Joe Flacco on the depth chart, connected early with undrafted wide receiver Dohnte Meyers for three first downs, including a 25‑yard pass on the opening drive. Meyers, a former Canadian Football League player, finished the game with three catches for 51 yards, adding to his preseason total of 191 all‑purpose yards.
Key plays and scoring summary
After a 56‑yard field goal by Eagles kicker Jake Elliott to close the first half, the Bengals answered with a 56‑yard field goal from Evan McPherson and a touchdown catch by Ke’Shawn Williams. The Eagles’ backup quarterback Andy Dalton, who entered the game in the second half, threw a 5‑yard touchdown pass to Carson Steele, but Cincinnati responded with a short rushing score by Kentrel Bullock and a 39‑yard run by Jamal Haynes.
Both teams used the game to evaluate roster depth. Philadelphia’s rookie wide receiver Makai Lemon, a first‑round pick, struggled, recording three catches for three yards and an interception that came on a dropped ball by Lemon. The Eagles also saw competition at quarterback, with Tanner McKee completing 12 of 22 passes for 55 yards before Dalton took over in the second half.
Injuries and next steps
The Bengals lost tight end Jack Endries to a leg injury early in the third quarter, while the Eagles saw safety Andre’ Sam carted off with a left‑leg injury and cornerback Isaiah Bolden limp off later in the game.
Both clubs now turn their attention to the regular season. Cincinnati will host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 13 for its season opener, and Philadelphia begins its campaign against Washington on the same day.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.