Mon Nov 24 12:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here is a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
The New England Patriots defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 26-20, securing their 10th win of the season and making them the first NFL team to reach that milestone. The Patriots overcame an early 10-point deficit and significant injuries to their offensive line to secure the victory. Drake Maye passed for 294 yards and a touchdown despite a shaky start that included a pick-six. The Patriots’ defense and special teams also contributed, with Marcus Jones returning an interception for a touchdown and Andy Borregales kicking four field goals. The Bengals struggled, missing key players due to injury and suspension, and their offense couldn’t capitalize despite a late rally. The Patriots now hold a significant lead in the AFC East and are near the top of the conference. The Bengals, meanwhile, continue to struggle without a healthy Joe Burrow.
News Article:
Injury-Plagued Patriots Grind Out Victory Over Bengals, Clinch 10th Win
CINCINNATI – The New England Patriots battled through adversity and a series of injuries to secure a 26-20 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, becoming the first NFL team to reach the 10-win mark this season.
The Patriots (10-2) overcame an early 10-point deficit after Bengals defensive back Geno Stone intercepted a pass from quarterback Drake Maye and returned it 33 yards for a touchdown. However, rookie quarterback Maye rebounded to finish with 294 passing yards and a touchdown, connecting with tight end Hunter Henry for a 28-yard score in the second quarter. Henry finished with a career-high 115 receiving yards.
“That’s what the league is about — battling adversity,” Maye said, acknowledging his early miscue but emphasizing the team’s resilience.
The Patriots victory was particularly impressive given the significant injuries sustained on their offensive line. Left guard Jared Wilson left with an ankle injury on the first series and rookie left tackle Will Campbell exited the game in the third quarter with a knee injury.
“That’s what happens in this league. You need everybody,” Patriots coach Mike Vrabel stated.
New England’s defense also stepped up, with cornerback Marcus Jones intercepting Joe Flacco and returning it 33 yards for a touchdown. Kicker Andy Borregales contributed four field goals, including a 52-yarder late in the fourth quarter to extend the Patriots’ lead.
The Bengals (3-8) have now lost eight of their last nine games. Quarterback Joe Flacco completed 19 of 37 passes for 183 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The Bengals were without receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who was serving a one-game suspension. The woes compounded when Tee Higgins suffered a concussion late in the game.
Despite the injuries, Mitchell Tinsley, filling in for Chase, caught a 17-yard touchdown pass from Flacco to bring the Bengals within three points late in the fourth quarter.
Bengals kicker Evan McPherson set a new team record with a 63-yard field goal at the end of the first half.
“Just been one of those years where we haven’t found a way at the end of the game, and that’s been frustrating,” Bengals coach Zac Taylor lamented.
The Patriots now hold a 2 1/2-game lead in the AFC East and are a half-game ahead of Denver for the top seed in the AFC. The Bengals will face the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night, while the Patriots will host the New York Giants on Dec. 1.
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