Once Joe Burrow’s Cincinnati Bengals offense got rolling in Madrid, Spain, they were never really uncomfortable during the 34-17 win over the Atlanta Falcons. 

Ja’Marr Chase played a big role in that, obviously, flirting with the 150-yard mark by halftime. Only a slow defensive start really had things interesting in the first quarter. 

Otherwise, the Bengals put on a show, which was one heck of a way to promote the NFL around the world. 

Here are some quick notes, stats to know and takeaways from the game. 

Bengals vs. Falcons notes

• Al Golden’s defense looking inept to start games continues to be a problem. The unit evens out over games sometimes, but the slow starts need to be addressed. 

• Ja’Marr Chase was sort of just toying with his food out there, boasting eight catches for 142 yards and a score in the second quarter. 

• Chase Brown finally had a few explosive runs of 15-plus yards, which should silence some critics ahead of next week’s NFL trade deadline. 

• Chase had the big highlights, but it was Tee Higgins who quietly scored two touchdowns.

• How about Evan McPherson hitting one from 57 yards out?

• Nice to see old friend Jessie Bates playing well despite the so-so stuff around him. Not going to happen…but the trade deadline is next week. 

• Speaking of safety, Bryan Cook looked healthy and made some nice open-field tackles. Jordan Battle...dropped a pick-six in the fourth quarter.

• At running back, Samaje Perine out-carried Chase Brown, 11 to nine. Could be a sign of things to come.

Key Stat

Top takeaway

What’s next? 

The Bengals return home for a Sunday night game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium, a battle of 6-2 teams with major seeding up for grabs in the AFC North.