Bills Beat Bengals 39-34; Cook's Fumbles Raise Concerns

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook continued his dominant 2025 season with a key contribution in the team's 39-34 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, but his two fumbles in the red zone highlighted a growing concern for ball security as the playoffs approach.

Cook rushed for 80 yards on 18 carries and added 58 receiving yards in the win at Highmark Stadium, helping Buffalo overcome a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit. The performance boosted the Bills' playoff probability to 98 percent, according to projections, while keeping alive their pursuit of a sixth straight AFC East title. However, the game exposed vulnerabilities in Cook's handling of the ball, with both fumbles occurring during scoring opportunities in the third quarter.

On a drive that reached the Bengals' 1-yard line, a holding penalty nullified what appeared to be a touchdown run by Cook. Officials initially ruled the play dead after the ball went out of bounds, but Cincinnati coach Zac Taylor challenged, arguing for a touchback if the fumble entered the end zone. Replay confirmed the fumble but determined it crossed the sideline before the goal line, upholding the Bills' possession at the 1-yard spot...