What happened: Cincinnati is passing on 71% of snaps when the margin sits within one score, per Paul Hembo's tracking. That split filters out garbage-time effects and isolates intentional game-plan lean.

Why it matters: Living in obvious pass situations lets fronts rush without honoring run fits. The tilt puts extra strain on protection and third-down execution over play-action balance.

What to watch: Watch early-down run-pass splits the next time Cincinnati plays a tight fourth quarter.