Joe Burrow sets new single-season franchise TD record, Bengals lead 24-14 at halftime

It was an entertaining first half between the Bengals and Titans, with Cincinnati building a 24-14 halftime lead.

A big man escaped with a stiff arm after a fumble recovery, a defensive player threw a touchdown, Will Levis committed multiple turnovers and Joe Burrow set a new franchise record for touchdown passes in a single season.

Burrow completed 20 of 27 passes for 216 yards with three touchdowns, one interception and a lost fumble. Burrow now has 36 touchdown passes, surpassing his previous franchise record of 35 in a single season set in 2022.

Burrow’s second touchdown went to defensive end Sam Hubbard, who recorded the first reception and touchdown of his career. But it was a costly play for Hubbard as he suffered a knee injury while catching and was sidelined.

Cincinnati finished the first half with 258 yards, 14 first downs and 7 of 8 on third down. Ja’Marr Chase had six catches for 79 yards, while Tee Higgins caught four passes for 65 yards with a 38-yard touchdown late in the second period.

On the other side, the Titans scored first on Tony Pollard’s 3-yard run, taking advantage of an interception by Burrow. The club then scored on Tyjae Spears’ 1-yard run late in the first quarter.

Defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat caught a fumble from Burrow and fended off an offensive player for one of the more exciting plays of the first half.

But Levis struggled again, finishing the first half 7 of 10 for 86 yards with two interceptions and a lost fumble.

Tennessee gets the kickoff to start the second half.