Tee Higgins delivered a remarkable performance for the Cincinnati Bengals in what could be his final home game, leading the team to a 30-24 overtime victory against the Denver Broncos. With his contract set to expire after this season, Higgins understood the stakes of the match, particularly as Cincinnati fought to keep its playoff aspirations alive. Despite nursing ankle and knee injuries, he sent a motivational text to head coach Zac Taylor, expressing his determination to play.
Higgins' statistics were impressive, with 11 receptions on 12 targets totaling 131 yards and three touchdowns, marking a career-high in touchdowns for him. His contributions were pivotal, especially after the Bengals faced a potential loss when the Broncos tied the game late in regulation. In overtime, after a missed field goal attempt by Cade York, Higgins caught a crucial 31-yard pass, setting up his game-winning touchdown reception from quarterback Joe Burrow.
Burrow praised Higgins' impact on the team, acknowledging how he elevates the offense when performing at such a high level. Higgins' resilience was evident, especially after recovering from a fumble earlier in the game, thanks to encouragement from rookie teammate Jermaine Burton. The victory not only kept Cincinnati's playoff hopes alive but also left Higgins with a bittersweet feeling, contemplating his future with the Bengals as his one-year franchise tag nears its end.
As the team prepares for a crucial matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Higgins reflects on the possibility of this being his last game in Cincinnati, expressing gratitude for the way it unfolded. The Bengals now face a tense situation, needing favorable outcomes in other games to secure a playoff spot, but for Higgins, scoring the winning touchdown at Paycor Stadium would be the perfect send-off if it comes to that.
