DaytonDailyNews.com

IRVING, Texas — The Cincinnati Bengals offense is looking for a spark.

It got one from wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who had seven catches for 85 yards and two touchdowns.

And fans can rest assured they'll be seeing more of tailback Cedric Benson because starter Chris Perry can't quit fumbling.

Five days after signing a one-year contract, Benson rushed 10 times for 30 yards (3.0) with a long gain of 10, while Perry was limited to 31 yards on 13 carries (2.7).

"I feel like I haven't missed a day at all," Benson said. "For a while, there was a little bit of cold butterflies. But I got out there on my first series, and there was no problem. Maybe I was a little too fast or too quick. I didn't expect big things.

"As I get back to work and get more into the playbook, I'll get more involved. I didn't want to put too much expectation on myself. I just want to do something for the team."

Benson, an All-America at Texas, was back in his home state, performing in front of family and friends, and auditioning for more playing time.

"I knew all we needed was a spark," he said. "I was just looking forward to my opportunity to try and provide that spark. That's what I'm here for.

"It was fun coming back home. No question, I'm real thankful I got the opportunity and I'm definitely poised to make the best of it.

"We were right there, right in it. We just had a couple mishaps in turnovers. I think we have a great offense. We've just got to eliminate the turnovers and finish.

"All we need to do offensively is continue to move the chains and stay on the field. I can help the team out. I can bring more depth. Week in and week out, I'll get better. I feel really good. I got a lot of support from the team in practice and a lot of support from the coaches as far as preparing for this game and as far as the playbook goes. This is just the start."

Head coach Marvin Lewis was asked if he's lost any confidence in Perry.

"No!" he said. "Not at all. It is everyone's job to take care of the football whether it be the quarterback, running back, the returners. It doesn't matter. It's everyone's responsibility. Every play call you have is to attack the opponent."