Bengals set dubious franchise record for most lopsided loss in 38-point drubbing by Vikings

MINNEAPOLIS (KVRR/AP) — The Cincinnati Bengals set a franchise record with their most lopsided loss, a 48-10 blowout by the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

In their first game since losing quarterback Joe Burrow to a serious toe injury, the Bengals fell behind by 45 points before a meaningless touchdown pass from Jake Browning to Drew Sample in the fourth quarter for the final, 38-point margin.

That was one point worse than four previous defeats: The Bengals lost 51-14 to the visiting New Orleans Saints on Nov. 11, 2018; 37-0 to the host New York Jets on Jan. 3, 2010; 37-0 to the Baltimore Ravens on the road on Sept. 24, 2000; and 44-7 to the visiting Chicago Bears on Sept. 28, 1986.

The Bengals, who had four of their five turnovers in the first half, trailed the Vikings 34-3 to match the largest halftime deficit in franchise history. They were down 31-0 to the Detroit Lions on the road on Sept. 27, 1970, and lost 38-3. The Bengals then won their final seven games that season to finish 8-6 and make the playoffs.

This was former NDSU Bison quarterback Carson Wentz’s first time leading the Vikings after JJ McCarthy”s ankle injury.

He also made history as the first NFL quarterback to have started in 6 teams in 6 seasons.

Wentz left the game late in the third quarter, with the Vikings leading by 45 and was replaced by Max Brosmer.