Bengals Week 1 Snap Count Takeaways: Ja'Marr Chase keeps his word, defensive line needs more rest

Ja'Marr Chase's prediction comes true

Chase (43), who was questionable on this week's injury report, told reporters Friday that he had "40 or 50" snaps in him if he were to play. 43 is right in line with the expectations he set for himself. He posted six receptions for 62 yards despite not seeing a target until the second quarter.

Chase ended up having food poisoning Saturday and was a true game-time decision. The Bengals needed him to just stay in the game. They needed a lot more around him.

Tight end depth chart actualization 

Drew Sample (27) ended up with the most snaps of the tight end group with Mike Gesicki (18) following in order of the team's official depth chart. Head coach Zac Taylor does not follow by how the public depth chart looks, but Sample is the listed starter and played the most out of the group.

Without Tee Higgins playing, Gesicki playing more often in the slot was a fair expectation. 18 snaps seems a bit low for how much help they needed in the passing game.

Rookie Erick All (12) played more than Tanner Hudson (9) due to All's run blocking ability. After Hudson's goal-line fumble, his usage won't see an increase anytime soon.

Defensive line fears coming true

The Bengals' defensive line couldn't muster a sack on Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett despite Trey Hendrickson (49) giving it his all and creating pressure. A lack of pass-rushing wins from his teammates was notable throughout the game.

A thumb injury for Kris Jenkins Jr. had Jay Tufele (30) and Zach Carter (27) doing their best to keep B.J. Hill (52) and Sheldon Rankins (41) as rested as possible, but with the Patriots' run game able to extend drives, the Bengals' defense was the unit that was left out on the field longer. That's a recipe for losing no matter the opposition.