Dillon Gabriel’s ’Entertainers vs. Competitors’ Quote + Bengals vs Commanders: Did We Learn Anything?

Reese, Kmac, Pam and Alex discuss Dillon Gabriel's comments that went viral and the last night's preseason game in the NFL.

During a preseason debut with the Cleveland Browns against the Philadelphia Eagles, rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel was asked how he handles outside distractions. In response, he said: “There are entertainers and there are competitors, and I totally understand that. My job is to compete. All you in this room are entertainers … I’m a competitor.”  Many fans and media speculated Gabriel’s comment was a veiled criticism of fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders—who carries a high-profile image—implying Sanders was more entertainer than competitor.

The public ripple grew when Stephen A. Smith called the remark "stupid" and "idiotic," even if it was aimed at the media. In the aftermath, Gabriel moved to clarify his intent publicly emphasizing the comment was not aimed at Sanders, but at the media—the “entertainers” he referenced were reporters and broadcasters. Was Gabriel talking about the media or Shedeur Sanders?

The Cincinnati Bengals secured a 31–17 victory over the Washington Commanders in their Week 2 preseason matchup last night. Despite the loss, rookie QB Jayden Daniels made his debut. Terry McLaurin remains out amid a contract standoff, making his absence a notable void in the offensive scheme. QB Joe Burrow played cautiously, completing 9 of 14 passes for 62 yards and a touchdown. Burrow received several hard hits, raising concern among fans and analysts over his protection and the decision to play him in preseason. What did we learn about these two teams? Did we learn anything?