Bengals fans reaction: 16-10 Patriots loss third straight debacle out of the gate

I agree with Enquirer columnist Jason Williams' analysis of the Patriots game ("Williams: This season-opening loss is inexcusable," Sept. 8). I drank the Kool-Aid and went out and bought an all-orange Bengals T-shirt and wore it to the game. I was particularly disappointed with the defense. It appears the Bengals still can't stop the run.

The offense wasn't sharp, and it looked like they were moving in slow motion during the first half. While we could not stop the Patriots run game, our run game looked like last year's. Finally, I have noticed over the years that backup quarterbacks or "second-rate quarterbacks" are underestimated by the Bengals and seem to play very well against this team.

Showing up does not mean you can win the game. The Ja'Marr Chase contract saga has become a distraction for everyone. I hope to see some improvement against Kansas City, but based on Sunday, it looks like another loss.

Gail Lewin, Springfield Township

Bengals coach needs to rethink preseason strategy

Definition of insanity: Repeating the same action and expecting a different outcome. Three straight Bengals preseasons without playing starters equals three straight-out-of-the-gate debacles. Zac Taylor, you might want to rethink your preseason strategy for a change. And here come the Kansas City Chiefs. Ouch!

More: Analysis: Patriots beating Bengals highlights more early season woes in Cincinnati

Gene Burchell, Edgewood, Ky.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals fans reaction: 16-10 Patriots loss third straight debacle out of the gate