The Cincinnati Bengals‘ win over the New York Jets was a huge step in the right direction. Although there’s plenty to clean up in a short week, it’s safe to say the Bengals looked significantly better on Sunday. 

A huge reason for that is the play of the defense, which shined once more in Week 3. Cincinnati held down the Jets to 12 points allowing only a 39% conversion rate on third downs and denying New York twice in the red zone. On top of that, the Bengals finished the day with four takeaways, including two interceptions.

And despite Trey Hendrickson dominating the headlines – as he should after such an epic performance – cornerback Chidobe Awuzie deserves plenty of credit. The Bengals’ cornerback has solidified himself as one of the pillars of this defense.

On Sunday, he finished with three pass deflections and the highest pass coverage grade of the game by PFF. He was targeted nine times and allowed only three catches for 36 yards. Chido Island is nothing new for Bengals fans, but his performance against the Jets is another reminder of his underrated consistency.

Awuzie would’ve liked to top his game with an interception as he was so close to getting one early in the game. As Charlie Goldsmith points out in the tweet below, his near pick was a huge example of his athleticism.

It’s only a matter of time before the Bengals’ cornerback gets his first pick of the year.

Rarely is Awuzie’s name listed as one of the best players on this Bengals team. Truth be told, he should be seen as such based on his recent play. As of Monday, he ranks as the 16th-best cornerback in pass coverage by PFF grade.

While the offense figures out some of its remaining issues, expect this Bengals’ defense to keep the team in games even in the toughest of match-ups.

Featured image via Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

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