Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor reacts during the first half against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. (Photo Credit: Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor had no issue with Ja’Marr Chase’s postgame remarks following the team’s 34-27 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday night. Despite the emotional comments, Taylor praised the wide receiver for his contributions to the team.
The Bengals (4-7) nearly pulled off what would have been their biggest road comeback in franchise history but fell short. This marked their sixth loss this season by seven points or fewer. When asked about the team’s struggles to close games, Chase directed attention toward Taylor, who also serves as the team’s offensive playcaller.
After Tuesday’s press conference, Taylor addressed Chase’s remarks with understanding.”I don’t ever hold it against a player when they’re after a game having an emotional response,” Taylor said. “We’ll just continue to move forward as a team, but love working with him. Thankful that he’s on our team.”
Struggles in Close Games
Cincinnati’s inability to finish games has been a recurring issue. In four of their losses this season, the Bengals either held a lead or were tied in the fourth quarter. Against the Chargers, they erased a 21-point deficit but couldn’t secure the winning score.
When asked about the Bengals’ late-game struggles, Chase offered a blunt response: “I play football on the field,” Chase said in the visiting locker room after the game. “I don’t call plays for us.”
Chase’s Stellar Season
Chase is having a career year, leading the NFL in receptions (73), receiving yards (1,056), and touchdowns (12). Against the Chargers, he recorded seven catches for 75 yards and two touchdowns, further cementing his status as one of the league’s elite receivers.
Taylor emphasized Chase’s pivotal role in the offense during Tuesday’s press conference. “I feel very confident we put Ja’Marr in the best position possible to succeed,” Taylor said. “He’s first in every category there is. We make a conscious effort to involve him and make sure he’s always a big part of that.”
The Bengals have adjusted their game plan this season, moving Chase across the formation to counter defensive schemes designed to limit his impact. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher affirmed the team’s commitment to maximizing opportunities for both Chase and quarterback Joe Burrow.
“[Burrow and Chase] are our two best players,” Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher said Tuesday. “So we are always trying to create opportunities for them to impact the game in a positive way. We are going to keep doing that.”
A Unique Season for Chase and Taylor
This year hasn’t been without its challenges. Chase missed practice during training camp due to a contract dispute, with Taylor offering vague explanations at the time to shield the receiver amid negotiations. Chase resolved the situation before the season began, and his performance has been exceptional ever since.
This isn’t the first time players have voiced frustrations about Taylor in the media. During his first season as head coach in 2019, wide receiver Tyler Boyd made similar comments after a difficult loss. However, Boyd became a cornerstone of the Bengals’ resurgence, helping them win back-to-back AFC North titles in 2021 and 2022 and make a Super Bowl appearance.
Taylor believes his strong relationships with players help diffuse tension in moments like these. Regarding Chase, he had nothing but praise for the star receiver.
“We all want to win,” Taylor said. “You put a lot of pressure on yourself. And when you don’t [win], it can lead to frustration. But, feel very confident we’re on the same page and we’ll be good going forward.”
The Bengals will look to bounce back and finish strong in the weeks ahead.
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This report used information from ESPN.
