Bengals vs. Lions Preseason Preview: Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase & Dexter Lawrence Take The Field

The Cincinnati Bengals are finally back in action as preseason football arrives, with Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and new defensive star Dexter Lawrence expected to see the field against the Detroit Lions. In this episode of Chatterbox Bengals, Stone Shields and Reid Maus break down what to expect from the Bengals’ preseason opener and how much playing time the team’s stars could receive.

The biggest question is how long Joe Burrow and the Bengals’ first-team offense will play. Stone and Reid discuss the possibility of Burrow, Chase and Higgins seeing roughly 8-10 offensive snaps, with a second series potentially coming if the opening drive ends in a quick three-and-out. The goal is simple: get the starters some live-game reps, build chemistry and get out healthy.

The conversation also focuses heavily on Cincinnati’s defensive line. With Dexter Lawrence and Jonathan Allen joining the Bengals, there are important roster battles developing behind them. Kris Jenkins, McKinnley Jackson and rookie Landon Robinson are competing for opportunities, and the preseason could provide an important look at who deserves a roster spot.

At wide receiver, the Bengals’ WR3 competition is another major storyline. Andrei Iosivas enters the preseason with experience and familiarity with Joe Burrow and Zac Taylor’s offense, while rookie Colbie Young has generated excitement with his contested catches during training camp. Stone and Reid discuss what Young must do to earn playing time, including blocking, learning the offense and consistently catching the football.

The Bengals’ returner competition is also discussed, with Charlie Jones, Ke'Shawn Williams and Dohnte Meyers battling for opportunities.

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