The Bengals fell to the Lions by a score 34-3 in the first preseason game of the 2011 season. The Bengals offense couldn't find their way to the end zone throughout the play and their only points came from a 27-yard field goal from Mike Nugent.
Andy Dalton's first pass attempt of his career was aimed towards rookie A.J. Green, who was streaking down the sideline, but fell short and was intercepted. His second pass was floated over Chris Pressley's head on a third-down attempt. He was obviously terrified. However, the coaches left Dalton in for the entire first half along with the majority of the first-string offense and once he completed his first pass he seemed to settle down and play like a rookie who is playing in their first NFL game. He finished the game with 11 completions on 15 attempts and an interception.
Second-string quarterback Bruce Gradkowski started the second half and played until the end of the third quarter, completing six passes on 11 attempts for 58 yards. Still the offense sputtered.
Sticking with the quarterbacks, Jordan Palmer came in at the beginning of the fourth quarter, completed one pass for seven yards out of four attempts and an interception. Then Dan LeFevour was in for one series and threw one pass, completing it for seven yards.
The Bengals defense allowed three passing touchdowns and a rushing touchdown and held the Lions to two field goals and gave up a total of 355 yards.
We'll have analysis on the loss to the Lions throughout the week. Now, go forth and share your thoughts on the Bengals loss to the Lions in the first week of the preseason.