Joe Burrow throws three first-half TDs; Jordan Battle picks off Malik Willis twice

The Bengals' offense exploded in the first half against Miami, with Joe Burrow throwing three touchdown passes while the defense grabbed two interceptions off Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis.

Burrow spread the ball around in the early going, hitting Samaje Perine, Tanner Hudson and Mike Gesicki for scores as Cincinnati raced to a comfortable lead. The aerial show put Miami on its heels almost immediately and set the tone for a dominant opening half.

On the other side, safety Jordan Battle had a day against Willis, picking him off twice. The interceptions punctuated a rough stretch for Miami's quarterback, with the Dolphins' offense sputtering.

For Miami, the struggle — on the ropes of entering its bye at 0-5 — is exactly the kind of afternoon it feared. For Cincinnati, the balanced showing, Burrow dealing and the defense forcing turnovers, is the formula that makes the Bengals dangerous.