It didn't take long before Joe Burrow - the first overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft - proved the world that he was special. The rookie quarterback out of LSU has been quite impressive for the Cincinnati Bengals thus far through 2 career starts.
Burrow has shown incredible poise and determination. He's been confident - yet not prone to turning the ball over. He's showcased his entire skill-set vs. the Los Angeles Chargers and Cleveland Browns, even though it still hasn't translated into a win.
Then again, football is a team sport. He's not to blame for his team's struggles and it was clear that the Bengals were far from ready to contend entering this season. Also, some growing pains are expected from rookie gunslingers.
Joe Burrow Breaks Multiple Records In Loss To Cleveland Browns
The Cincinnati Bengals trailed for most of their game vs. the Cleveland Browns. However, Burrow lived up to the expectations by attempting 61 passes, thus becoming the first rookie in the past 70 years to throw 60+ passes and not have an interception.
The Tiger King completed 37 of those passes for 316 yards and a touchdown in his first career primetime game. That broke the record for most completed passes by a rookie in NFL history, while the 61 attempts were the second-most ever.
Burrow has put his team in positions to win in back-to-back weeks. Randy Bullock missed a game-tying field goal in Week 1 and he kept this game within reach all night long. His defense and offensive line, however, didn't get the job done.
Joe operated great outside of the pocket but was pressured all night long. Myles Garrett even knocked him down and forced a fumble as the Bengals' line showed a lot of weak links yet again. He was sacked 3 times for a loss of 31 yards.
Then again, the rookie quarterback was able to move the chains all night long with 30 first downs (including 5/5 in fourth down). That first career win may have to wait a little longer but it's clear that the Bengals have found their starting quarterback for many years to come.
