Bengals cruise past Falcons, 34-10

Behind the efforts of quarterback Josh Johnson, the Cincinnati Bengals opened the preseason with an easy win over the Atlanta Falcons, 34-10.

Johnson, a fifth-year veteran from the University of San Diego who is challenging John Skelton to be Andy Dalton’s back up, led the team with 100 yards passing and 64 yards rushing. His 21-yard touchdown pass to Brandon Tate broke the deadlock at 3-3 in the second quarter and started the Bengals on their way to victory.

For his part, Skelton finished 4-for-5 for 72 yards and a fourth quarter touchdown. Dalton was featured in two drives, with just three completions for 37 yards.

Matt Ryan was an efficient 6-for-9 for 89 yards in three drives before Dominique Davis took the reins. Davis struggled, completing just 42% of his passes for 78 years, a third quarter touchdown to Jason Snelling and an interception.

On the ground, new Falcon Steven Jackson failed to make an impact with five carries for just eight yards. Undrafted free agent Ronnie Wingo led Atlanta with 29 yards.

The Benglas found much more success running as Rex Burkhead notched 52 yards and Giovani Bernard, who received the bulk of the carries, scored a touchdown.

Bengals receiver Dane Sanzenbacher in his third year out of Ohio State made a big impact with a 70-yard punt return and a 36-yard touchdown catch.

The Bengals next face Tennessee in preseason action, while the Falcons head to Baltimore to take on the Ravens.