In the Bengals' 34-12 loss to the Steelers on November 16, 2025, defensive end Myles Murphy delivered his most commanding performance yet, a beacon of progress amid a deflating defeat. The 2023 first-round pick entered the game under scrutiny, with just 4.5 sacks through 10 outings and the Bengals' pass rush depleted by injuries to Trey Hendrickson and Shemar Stewart. Facing a revamped Pittsburgh line featuring ex-first-rounders Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, Murphy stepped up as the de facto leader of Cincy's edge rotation. Murphy's stat line screamed dominance: a career-high seven tackles, five in the first half alone, anchoring the run defense with five stops that limited Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell's explosiveness. He led the team with six quarterback pressures, per Pro Football Focus, constantly disrupting Aaron Rodgers (and later Mason Rudolph) in the pocket. His crowning moment came midway through the second quarter: teaming with B.J. Hill for an 11-yard sack on Rodgers, a thunderous strip-sack that forced a punt and ignited Who Dey cheers in Acrisure Stadium. Murphy's bull rushes overwhelmed Fautanu, ending the rookie's recent hype, while his pursuit angles—chasing down Warren for a 3-yard stuff—showcased improved instincts and effort. This wasn't mere volume; it was refined technique. Murphy switched sides seamlessly, exploiting mismatches with violent hand usage and a low pad level honed during the bye week. Despite a roughing-the-passer flag that gifted Pittsburgh a first down and a neutral zone infraction, his motor never waned, even as the defense surrendered a pick-six and fumble return for scores in the second half. Teammates like Joseph Ossai and Cedric Johnson fed off his energy, hinting at a budding rotation. For a Bengals D ranked 28th in sacks, Murphy's breakout signals hope. At 22, he's evolving from raw athlete to disruptive force, pressuring coaches to eye his fifth-year option. In a season of 3-7 despair, this was Murphy's "put it all together" game—raw power meets football IQ. If sustained, it could salvage Cincinnati's pass rush and playoff dreams. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In the heated world of NFL rivalries, few moments capture raw emotion like a spit take—literally. On November 16, 2025, during the Pittsburgh Steelers' 34-12 demolition of the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 11, Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase found himself at the center of controversy. In the fourth quarter, amid a scrum of trash talk and tangled limbs, Chase allegedly spat on Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey, igniting a brawl that saw Ramsey ejected for throwing a punch.  The incident unfolded after an earlier scuffle that drew personal foul flags on both players. Ramsey, no stranger to on-field theatrics, grabbed Chase by the facemask and unleashed a helmet-rattling swing. Post-game, Ramsey didn't mince words: "He spit on me. I don't give a f--- about football after that, respectfully. I'm all for trash talking, but that's crossing the line." Chase, the Bengals' explosive 2021 first-round pick and three-time Pro Bowler, vehemently denied it: "I never opened my mouth to that guy. I didn’t spit on nobody." But video evidence from FOX 19 cameras in Cincinnati told a different story, capturing what appeared to be a clear projectile from Chase's direction. The NFL wasted no time. On November 17, the league slapped Chase with a one-game suspension without pay, citing Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1: "any act which is contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship." He'll miss the Bengals' Week 12 clash with the New England Patriots, costing him roughly $448,333 in salary. This marks the second spitting-related ban this season, echoing Eagles DT Jalen Carter's ejection and suspension for hawking a loogie at Cowboys QB Dak Prescott in Week 1. Bengals coach Zac Taylor, while praising Chase's usual poise—"He's one of the best leaders we've got"—deemed the act "unacceptable." For a team already reeling from QB Joe Burrow's Week 2 injury and a 2-8 record, losing their 1,000-yard receiver stings. Chase, with 72 catches for 1,128 yards and 8 TDs this year, embodies Cincinnati's high-octane offense. Critics decry the league's zero-tolerance stance on such "disgusting" behavior, arguing it deters the passion that fuels football. Yet, precedents like Carter's affirm the NFL's message: Spitting isn't spirited—it's sanction-worthy. As Chase appeals (or doesn't), this episode underscores the thin line between competitive fire and foul play. In a league of gladiators, one glob of saliva can sideline a superstar. Will it humble Chase or harden his edge? Only the tape—and the tape—will tell. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a brutal AFC North showdown at Acrisure Stadium on November 16, 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals' flickering playoff aspirations were snuffed out in a 34-12 thrashing by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dropping to 3-7, Cincinnati's defense showed early grit but crumbled under second-half turnovers, while an offense led by Joe Flacco sputtered against a revamped Steelers unit. The loss halts any momentum from their Week 7 upset over Pittsburgh, exposing persistent issues in protection and execution. The Bengals struck first, marching 75 yards on their opening drive capped by Flacco's 28-yard touchdown strike to Tee Higgins, who extended his scoring streak to four games and sits third league-wide with seven receiving TDs. Cincinnati's defense, anchored by Myles Murphy's career-high seven tackles (including a sack) and Oren Burks' nine stops, blanked Pittsburgh after their initial field goal, forcing four punts and limiting them to 188 yards through halftime. Chase Brown powered the ground game with 99 rushing yards on 18 carries—his fourth straight 100-yard scrimmage outing—adding hope amid a 9-6 deficit. But the third quarter flipped the script. Flacco's errant pass was swiped by Steelers safety Kyle Dugger, who sprinted 74 yards for a pick-six, igniting a 20-9 Pittsburgh lead. The Bengals clawed to 13-20 late in the frame, but a fumbled snap led to cornerback James Pierre's 32-yard scoop-and-score, ballooning the margin to 27-12. Mason Rudolph, stepping in for the wrist-injured Aaron Rodgers, sealed it with a 5-yard toss to Kenneth Gainwell, who tallied two TD catches. Flacco finished 23-of-40 for 199 yards, one score, and the costly interception—snapping his 100+ passer rating streak. Ja'Marr Chase, double-teamed relentlessly, managed just three catches for 30 yards after his 16-reception explosion versus Pittsburgh earlier. A sideline scuffle saw Steelers' Jalen Ramsey ejected for punching Chase amid unproven spitting allegations, adding fuel to the rivalry. Head coach Zac Taylor lamented, "You feel all the losses. They all eat at you... Our option is to come back tomorrow and keep fighting." Flacco acknowledged Pittsburgh's adjustments: "They had a couple guys on him [Chase] more often... We've got to match that." With a red-hot New England squad next, Cincinnati must rally or face a lost season. The Bengals' defense forced Pittsburgh into inefficiency early, but self-inflicted wounds—turnovers, penalties, and injuries to Cam Taylor-Britt (foot) and Trey Hendrickson (hip, out second straight)—proved fatal. At 3-7, their wild-card path is a steep climb, demanding urgent fixes in a division where the Steelers (6-4) now lead comfortably. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a league increasingly defined by youth and flash, Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers represent the grizzled veterans who refuse to fade. At 40 and 41, respectively, the duo's second showdown of the 2025 NFL season on Sunday—Bengals at Steelers—evokes a bygone era of pocket passers with ice in their veins. Their first clash, a Thursday night thriller on Oct. 16 in Cincinnati, was a 33-31 Bengals escape that felt like a nod to their Super Bowl legacies. Flacco, thrust into the Bengals' starting role amid Joe Burrow's injury woes, orchestrated a fourth-quarter masterclass. He went 31-of-47 for 342 yards and three touchdowns, capping the win with a game-winning drive that silenced a raucous Paycor Stadium crowd. Rodgers, in his Steelers debut after a surprise June free-agency signing, nearly stole it, tossing four scores on 249 yards but undone by two picks—including a back-breaking interception in the red zone. It marked just the second starting QB matchup of 40-plus-year-olds in NFL history, behind only Vinny Testaverde and Warren Moon in 2002.  Now, with Burrow practicing but Flacco downplaying any benching—"I'm honestly not really thinking about it"—the iron man from Audubon, N.J., gets the nod in Pittsburgh. The Bengals (3-6 post-bye) desperately need this to stay afloat in the AFC North, leaning on Ja'Marr Chase's explosiveness to exploit a Steelers secondary that's surrendered 1,200 receiving yards to wideouts this year. Flacco's steady 68% completion rate and seven TDs over his last four starts make him a sneaky fantasy gem, but the road test at Acrisure Stadium looms large. For Rodgers, wearing black and gold has been a mixed bag: 2,100 yards and 15 TDs, but the Steelers' 4-5 mark reflects offensive line woes and a run game that's averaged a measly 3.8 yards per carry. Najee Harris must grind early to set up play-action magic, or Flacco's poise could haunt them again. This "Old Bowl" rematch isn't just divisional fireworks—it's a testament to longevity in a brutal sport. Will Rodgers reclaim his four-time MVP aura, or does Flacco, the eternal bridesmaid turned Bengal savior, prove age is merely a number? Kickoff at 1 p.m. ET promises answers, with playoff implications hanging in the balance. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

The storied Bengals-Steelers rivalry reignites this Sunday, November 16, at Acrisure Stadium, where the Pittsburgh Steelers (5-4) host the Cincinnati Bengals (3-6) in a pivotal Week 11 matchup. With Pittsburgh clinging to a one-game lead in the AFC North over the Ravens, a win keeps their postseason hopes alive, while Cincinnati eyes a season sweep after stunning the Steelers 33-20 in Week 7.  Kickoff is at 1 p.m. ET on CBS, with oddsmakers favoring Pittsburgh by 5.5 points and an over/under of 49.5.  The Bengals enter off a bye week, desperate to salvage their season without star QB Joe Burrow, who's sidelined by a toe injury but designated for return soon. Veteran Joe Flacco steps in, fresh off a monster 470-yard, four-TD outing against Chicago on November 2—his best since 2022. Flacco's career mark against Pittsburgh? A balanced 11-11, with 27 TDs in those tilts. He'll lean on WR Ja'Marr Chase, who torched the Steelers for 16 catches, 161 yards, and a score in their last meeting, exploiting CB Jalen Ramsey's coverage. Chase's deep-threat ability could test Pittsburgh's secondary, which has surrendered 376 yards per game lately.  Pittsburgh counters with Aaron Rodgers under center, but the future Hall of Famer's recent form is shaky: just 161 yards and two picks in a 25-10 loss to the Chargers. The Steelers' offense ranks near the bottom (280.7 yards/game), plagued by five turnovers since Week 7 and a paltry 85.7 rushing yards. RB Jaylen Warren must grind out yards against Cincy's front, while WR Roman Wilson (113 receiving yards over the last three games) steps up amid injuries. Defensively, Pittsburgh's pass rush (32 sacks, league-second) remains elite, but they've leaked 28.25 points per game recently.  Injuries loom large: Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson (hip) is doubtful, weakening their edge rush, while RB Samaje Perine (undisclosed) is questionable. Steelers CB Darius Slay (concussion) and G Isaac Seumalo (pectoral) are iffy, potentially exposing vulnerabilities. Betting trends favor the over (hitting in 7 of 9 Bengals games) and Cincinnati covering as underdogs (3-6 ATS but 4 straight divisional wins).  Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

The Cincinnati Bengals (3-6) face a must-win scenario in Week 11 against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, November 16, at Acrisure Stadium. Trailing in the AFC North, the Bengals desperately need a victory to salvage their playoff hopes, especially after a gritty 24-17 win over Pittsburgh in Week 7, where Joe Flacco stepped in admirably, throwing for 342 yards. However, with Joe Burrow's status uncertain amid injury whispers, the offense hinges on Ja'Marr Chase's explosiveness and a resurgent ground game led by Chase Brown. The Steelers enter as 5.5-point favorites, with a total of 49.5 points signaling a high-scoring affair. Pittsburgh's defense, anchored by T.J. Watt, has terrorized quarterbacks, while their run-heavy attack with Najee Harris exploits Cincinnati's leaky front seven. Yet, the Bengals boast a perfect 2-0 divisional record this season and cover +5.5 in models like ESPN's, thanks to their pass rush disrupting Ben Roethlisberger's successor. Expect a revenge-fueled battle—Bengals ML +195 offers value for underdogs hungry to flip the script. Fresh off their first postseason berth since 2013, the Cincinnati Reds are buzzing with free agency ambition, and Kyle Schwarber tops the wishlist. ESPN's Jeff Passan calls signing the slugging DH the "perfect transaction" to turbocharge an offense that slashed .240 collectively in 2025. The Cincinnati native crushed 47 homers with an .928 OPS for the Phillies, thriving in a hitter-friendly park like GABP, where his pull power could yield 50+ dingers annually. Rumors hinge on a $60 million variable—Schwarber's Phillies loyalty versus Cincy's hometown pull and deeper pockets post-playoff revenue. A projected six-year, $150M deal could pair him with Elly De La Cruz for a fearsome core, transforming the Reds into NL Central contenders. Local ties ignite belief: Schwarber to Reds feels destined, per insiders, bridging nostalgia with firepower for 2026 glory.  Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a boost for the floundering Cincinnati Bengals, star quarterback Joe Burrow returned to practice on Monday, November 10, 2025, as the team designated him to return from injured reserve, opening his 21-day practice window. Sidelined since Week 2 with a Grade III turf toe injury requiring surgery on his right big toe, Burrow has been absent for nearly two months, contributing to the Bengals' dismal 3-6 start and third-place standing in the AFC North. The injury, initially projected as season-ending, has seen Burrow defy expectations, accelerating his rehab timeline. Burrow participated in limited drills, focusing on footwork and passing without full contact, and remains on IR until activation—potentially as soon as this week, though he confirmed he won't suit up for Sunday's clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The window, expiring December 1, gives coaches Zac Taylor and Dan Pitcher flexibility to ramp up his workload while preserving roster spots. Burrow's optimism shone through post-practice: "It would be 'very' meaningful to play Thanksgiving night vs. the Ravens," he said, alluding to the heated rivalry that has defined recent playoff battles. When pressed if Baltimore on November 27 (Week 13) is his target, the 28-year-old paused thoughtfully: "We'll see." For a Bengals squad leaking points at 33.3 per game defensively, Burrow's return could be transformative. Cincinnati's offense, sans its field general, has leaned on backup Jake Browning's steady hand but lacks the explosiveness that propelled them to the Super Bowl in 2021. A Thanksgiving debut against Lamar Jackson's Ravens—tied atop the division at 7-2—would ignite Who Dey Nation, especially with the AFC North "wide open" per Burrow. Fantasy managers, take note: Stash him now during the bye, as a December surge looms Burrow's resilience mirrors his career arc—from 2020 debut to MVP-caliber 2023. If he navigates the toe's lingering pain without setback, expect vintage deep balls to Ja'Marr Chase by month's end. The Bengals' playoff hopes, dim at 3-6, flicker brighter. As Burrow quipped, "Limitless hopes" ahead.  Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

The AFC North rivalry reignites on November 16 when the Cincinnati Bengals (3-6) invade Acrisure Stadium to face the Pittsburgh Steelers (5-4). Fresh off a Week 10 bye, Cincinnati enters rested and hungry, aiming to exploit a Pittsburgh squad reeling from a humiliating 25-10 primetime drubbing at the hands of the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday night. The Steelers' third loss in four games has tightened the division race, with Baltimore lurking just one game back at 4-5. For the Bengals, the bye couldn't come soon enough. A brutal stretch saw them drop five of six, including a 31-20 gut-punch to the Jets in Week 8. Joe Burrow, nursing a nagging wrist issue, used the downtime for targeted rehab, while coordinators schemed ways to revive an offense averaging a measly 17.8 points per game. Ja'Marr Chase remains a matchup nightmare, but Cincy's run game—led by Chase Brown—must grind out possessions to keep Pittsburgh's ferocious front seven at bay. The rest advantage is real: Teams off byes are 12-8 straight-up this season, per early trends. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, is a powder keg. Mike Tomlin's crew dominated early (4-1 start) but has sputtered offensively, mustering just 159 yards in the Chargers loss—0-for-9 on third downs. Russell Wilson looked pedestrian, sacked four times, as L.A.'s Justin Herbert carved up the secondary for 248 yards and two scores. The Steel Curtain defense, anchored by T.J. Watt's league-leading 9.5 sacks, held firm (limiting Chargers to 3-of-13 on third down), but turnovers and red-zone inefficiency doomed them. Najee Harris needs volume to spark the ground attack, especially with divisional pride on the line—this is the rematch after Cincy's win a couple weeks ago. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

Heading into their Week 10 bye on November 7, 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals sit at 3-6, a record that masks a tale of two teams: an offense firing on all cylinders under Joe Flacco's steady hand, and a defense that's not just bad—it's etching itself into the annals of NFL infamy. Paul Brown Stadium buzzes with cautious optimism for the attack, but the back end's collapse has fans dreaming of duct tape and prayer. Joe Flacco, the 40-year-old bridge quarterback thrust into the spotlight amid Joe Burrow's latest injury woes, has been nothing short of revelatory. In six starts, he's posted a 105.2 passer rating, slicing defenses with a 71% completion clip and 12 touchdowns to just three picks. His pocket presence—honed from two Super Bowl runs—has unlocked the Bengals' weapons. Ja'Marr Chase is a one-man highlight reel, scorching secondaries for 1,100 yards and nine scores, while Tee Higgins' midseason return has added a vertical terror, averaging 18 yards per catch. The run game? Revitalized, with Chase Brown pounding out 650 yards at 5.2 per carry, feeding off an offensive line that's gelled into a mauling unit. They've erupted for 31 points per game over the last four outings, turning shootouts into symphonies. Flacco's veteran savvy—calling audibles like a chess master—has this group humming, a far cry from the Burrow-less sputters of years past. Yet, for all the offensive fireworks, the defense is a dumpster fire of historic proportions. Surrendering 35 points per contest—the worst in franchise lore and bottom-feeder league-wide—they've allowed 4,200 total yards already, more than most full seasons. The secondary is Swiss cheese: corners like Cam Taylor-Britt and Mike Hilton torched for 1,200 passing yards and 12 TDs, with safeties Vonn Bell and Jordan Battle whiffing tackles like pros at a piñata party. Up front, the pass rush is anemic—eight sacks total, none from a depleted D-line missing B.J. Hill to injury. Run stuffers? Laughable, coughing up 160 yards per game on the ground. Lou Anarumo's schemes look like relics from the West Coast offense era. Zac Taylor's squad enters the break with a prayer: harness the bye for scheme tweaks and youth infusions. Offense can carry them to 9-8 and a wild-card sniff, but without defensive voodoo—trades? Miracles?—this Bengal pride risks another winter of what-ifs. Flacco's magic buys time, but history whispers: firepower alone doesn't forge rings. Fans roar for resurrection; the D must awaken, or it's just Bengal fireworks fizzling in the Ohio chill Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In the swirling vortex of MLB free agency speculation, few names ignite Ohioan hearts quite like Kyle Schwarber's. The burly left-handed slugger, fresh off another cannonball season with the Phillies—where he mashed 47 homers and drew walks like a magnet—has suddenly become the belle of the Reds' rumor ball. As the 2025-26 offseason heats up, Cincinnati's front office, under Nick Krall's steady hand, is reportedly eyeing a seismic shift: luring Schwarber home to the banks of the Ohio River. Born in Middletown, just a stone's throw from Great American Ball Park, Schwarber's Midwestern roots make this feel less like a signing and more like a homecoming barbecue. The chatter kicked off in late October, fueled by anonymous whispers from "NL Central insiders" at the Winter Meetings prelude. Picture this: Schwarber, the ultimate three-true-outcomes beast (home runs, walks, strikeouts), slotting into the Reds' revamped lineup alongside Elly De La Cruz's fireworks and Matt McLain's grit. Great American, with its short porches and hitter-friendly confines, could turn Schwarber into a 50-homer demigod, boosting a rotation still smarting from Hunter Greene's injury woes. Rumor has it the Reds are dangling a five-year, $125 million pact—player-friendly opt-outs included—to outbid suitors like the Cubs (ironic family reunion?) or Yankees, who crave his October thunder. But oh, the caveats! Schwarber's defensive "adventures" in left field—more adventure than acumen—might clash with the Reds' youth movement. And at 33, is he the long-term anchor or a bridge to contention? Fans in Cincy dream of him launching moonshots over the river, channeling Pete Rose's fire with modern power. Yet skeptics point to Philly's reluctance to let him walk, given his clubhouse glue role. If it happens, it's poetic: the Middletown Hammer returning to swing for the fences in red. For now, it's all smoke and mirrors—delicious, Reds-tinted smoke. Will it ignite? Stay tuned; the hot stove's just warming up. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

On a fateful November Tuesday in 2025, as the trade deadline clock ticked down, the Cincinnati Bengals pulled off their lone maneuver: shipping linebacker Logan Wilson to the Dallas Cowboys for a 2026 seventh-round pick. Duke Tobin's quixotic swap didn't just stun the Queen City—it ignited a firestorm of second-guessing that could scorch the franchise's playoff hopes. In a season already teetering on Burrow's bum wrist and a defense riddled with holes, this felt less like strategy and more like surrender. Wilson, the Wyoming product turned Bengal beast, was no ordinary cog. Since his 2020 third-round selection, he'd amassed 245 tackles, four picks, and a sideline-to-sideline menace that masked the unit's vulnerabilities. At 29, he was the vocal leader, the coverage maestro who neutralized stars like Travis Kelce and CeeDee Lamb in past clashes. Trading him away? It's akin to yanking the keystone from an archway—everything wobbles. With Germaine Pratt sidelined and rookie prospects unproven, the Bengals' linebacker corps now looks like a ghost town, primed for exploitation by divisional bruisers like Baltimore's Derrick Henry. And for what? A seventh-rounder, the draft's afterthought, a flier that might net a long-snapper or a camp body. Dallas, ever the opportunists under Jerry Jones, slots Wilson seamlessly into their revamped front seven, bolstering Micah Parsons' chaos and fortifying against NFC East slugfests. It's a heist that elevates the Cowboys' Super Bowl odds while leaving Cincinnati clutching vapors. Tobin's defense? Salary cap gymnastics and a pivot to "versatile youth." But with Ja'Marr Chase demanding targets amid offensive woes, gutting the D for pocket lint reeks of shortsightedness. Fan fury erupted on Bengals boards—jersey bonfires, #FireDuke trending—echoing the 2023 collapse. As December looms with Ravens rematches and Steelers grudge matches, this move isn't bold; it's baffling. The Bengals, once AFC North predators, now prowl as prey. That seventh-round dream might sprout a diamond, but Wilson's void will echo louder in the cold. In a league of sharks, Cincinnati just fed the chum line. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a gut-wrenching pivot that reeks of surrender, the Cincinnati Bengals have shipped off defensive anchor Logan Wilson to the Dallas Cowboys for a measly 2026 seventh-round draft pick. The trade, finalized on the eve of the deadline, underscores a franchise in freefall—sitting at 3-6 with a defense hemorrhaging yards and points. Wilson, the 28-year-old Wyoming product who's patrolled the middle for Cincinnati since 2020, was unceremoniously benched last week for rookie phenom Barrett Carter. Now, he's gone, leaving a leadership vacuum in a locker room already reeling from injuries to key pieces like Sam Hubbard and DJ Reader. Drafted in the third round, Wilson evolved into a tackling machine: 450 stops, 5.5 sacks, four picks, and back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances in 2022-23. His rangy coverage and bone-crushing hits were linchpins during the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl charge. Locked into a team-friendly four-year, $13.3 million extension through 2026, he seemed like the glue holding Lou Anarumo's scheme together. But with Joe Burrow's $275 million albatross and Ja'Marr Chase's extension looming, cap constraints forced Duke Tobin's hand. Trading a proven captain for late-round lottery tickets? It's the kind of "asset management" that fans label as malpractice, sparking boycotts and viral rants across Who Dey Nation. For Dallas, it's highway robbery. The 5-4 Cowboys, limping through linebacker carnage—DeMarvion Overshown's ACL tear and Leighton Vander Esch's heartbreaking retirement—snag Wilson at fire-sale prices. A Texas kid returning home, he'll slide seamlessly into Mike Zimmer's aggressive front, turbocharging a run defense mired at 22nd in the league. Imagine him scheming alongside Micah Parsons and Damone Clark: explosive blitzes, sure tackles, and maybe a NFC East crown. Jerry Jones, ever the opportunist, hoards cap space for Dak Prescott's payday while flipping the script on a middling season. This deal exposes Cincinnati's crossroads: full rebuild or desperate patch? Wilson's void exposes green talent like Carter and Oren Burks to the wolves, testing resolve in a brutal AFC North. Dallas, meanwhile, reloads for a Lombardi chase. In the NFL's cutthroat calculus, a seventh-rounder might birth the next gem—or just another bust. For now, it's Wilson's Lone Star redemption arc, and the Bengals' harsh reality check. Football's poetry in motion, served with a side of regret. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a game that had everything but a happy ending for Cincinnati, the Bengals fell 47-42 to the Chicago Bears on Sunday, November 2, 2025, in a fourth-quarter thriller that encapsulated their maddening 2025 season. What began with Charlie Jones' electric 98-yard kickoff return touchdown just 11 seconds in devolved into yet another devastating loss, dropping the Bengals to a dismal 3-6 and burying any faint playoff hopes deeper. Joe Flacco, filling in admirably for the injured Joe Burrow, etched his name in the record books with a career-high 470 passing yards—his second straight monster outing in defeat. Tee Higgins torched Chicago for 121 yards and two scores, including a 44-yard bomb that gave Cincinnati a halftime edge at 20-17. Ja'Marr Chase added 111 yards on six catches, proving the Bengals' offense remains an explosive force capable of 42 points. They even rallied from a 41-27 deficit late, with Flacco hitting Noah Fant for a touchdown, a successful two-point conversion to Higgins, and an onside kick recovery by Joseph Ossai leading to a go-ahead score to Andrei Iosivas with 54 seconds left. But devastation struck when Bears quarterback Caleb Williams— in a performance for the ages—scrambled for 14 yards before lofting a 58-yard game-winner to Colston Loveland with 17 seconds to play. Loveland shook off two Bengals defenders to seal it, highlighting Cincinnati's porous defense, dead last in the NFL, which surrendered a staggering 576 total yards, including 283 on the ground from Kyle Monangai's 176-yard rampage. This marks the Bengals' sixth high-scoring loss (30+ points) in the last year-plus, a cruel pattern that screams squandered potential. At 3-6 after their bye, facing Pittsburgh next on November 16 feels like a funeral march. Burrow's absence looms large, but even with firepower, the D's black hole devours dreams. Fans are left reeling—another "what if" in a season of soul-crushing near-misses. How much more can the Queen City take? Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a stunning development just days before the NFL trade deadline, Cincinnati Bengals second-year defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson has formally requested a trade or outright release from the team, marking the third such plea from a Bengals defender this season. The news, first reported by ESPN's Ben Baby, underscores mounting frustrations within a Bengals defense that has surrendered the third-most rushing yards in the league through eight games, ranking 29th overall in points allowed.  Jackson, selected 96th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Texas A&M, entered the league with high expectations as a disruptive interior lineman. At 6-foot-2 and 328 pounds, he boasted a college pedigree of 10 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks over two seasons with the Aggies, drawing comparisons to a young B.J. Hill for his quick first step and run-stuffing prowess. Yet, his rookie year was marred by a knee injury that limited him to just six games, where he recorded a modest 12 tackles and no sacks. This 2025 campaign has been even more perplexing: Jackson has been a healthy scratch for five of eight contests under defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, logging only 18 snaps in the two appearances he did make.  The timing of Jackson's request is particularly telling, coming on the heels of edge rusher Trey Hendrickson (who sought a trade in Week 5 over contract disputes) and linebacker Logan Wilson (who followed suit last week, citing limited snaps in sub-packages). Sources indicate Jackson's dissatisfaction stems from a perceived lack of opportunity behind veterans like Sheldon Rankins and B.J. Hill, coupled with whispers of a looming contract extension that feels premature given his bench role. "It's a cry for playing time where he can develop," one league insider told Bleacher Report, noting Jackson's raw talent remains untapped.  For the Bengals (4-4), already reeling from injuries to key pieces like D.J. Reader, this exodus signals deeper schematic issues. GM Duke Tobin faces a high-stakes decision by November 4: Trade Jackson—a former top-100 pick—for a mid-round pick or risk losing him to free agency in 2027 on a prove-it deal. Potential suitors include run-weak fronts like the Pittsburgh Steelers or Detroit Lions, where Jackson could slot in as a rotational piece immediately.  If no deal materializes, a release seems unlikely, but it could further erode locker room morale. As Cincinnati prepares for a pivotal Thursday night clash with the Chicago Bears, Jackson's saga encapsulates a Bengals defense at a crossroads—talented on paper, but fractured in execution. Will Tobin pull the trigger, or double down on continuity? The deadline clock is ticking, and Who Dey Nation holds its breath. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare to host the Chicago Bears this Sunday in Week 9, the shadow of quarterback Joe Burrow's injury continues to darken their playoff hopes. Burrow, the 2022 NFL passing yards leader, has been sidelined since early October after suffering a severe turf toe injury to his left big toe during a Week 4 loss to the Ravens. Requiring surgery, the ailment—a ligament tear in the toe joint—typically demands three months of recovery, pushing his anticipated return to mid-December. Head coach Zac Taylor provided an encouraging update Wednesday, noting Burrow's rehab is progressing "as hoped" with no setbacks, though he offered no revised timeline. Fans caught a glimpse of optimism when Burrow was spotted boot-free at practice this week, a step forward from his sidelined appearances in a protective walking boot. For this weekend's matchup, Burrow's absence is all but certain, compounding the Bengals' quarterback carousel. Veteran Joe Flacco, who stepped in admirably with 1,200 yards and eight touchdowns in four starts, now grapples with an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder sustained against the Jets. Taylor labeled Flacco's status a "50-50" proposition after he skipped Wednesday's practice, leaving third-stringer Jake Browning as the likely starter. Browning, who went 1-2 in Burrow's initial absence, brings poise but lacks the star power to elevate a 3-5 Bengals squad already battered by injuries to key defenders like Trey Hendrickson. The ripple effects are stark: Cincinnati's offense, once explosive under Burrow's precision (career 68% completion rate), has sputtered without him, averaging just 18 points per game in his starts' void. Facing a Bears defense that's forced 12 turnovers despite their own secondary woes, the Bengals enter as +2.5 underdogs. Social media buzz reflects the frustration—posts joking about Burrow suiting up underscore the desperation.  Yet, silver linings emerge. Burrow's December target aligns with a softer late-season slate, potentially fueling a playoff push if the Bengals string wins together. For now, though, this Bears tilt tests their depth, resilience, and whether Browning can channel Burrow's cool amid the chaos. At 3-5, every snap without No. 9 feels like borrowed time in a brutal AFC North. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In the wake of a humiliating 39-38 home loss to the winless New York Jets on October 26, the Cincinnati Bengals' defense convened a players-only meeting the following day, October 27, exposing deep frustrations within the unit. This gut-wrenching defeat—marked by over 500 yards allowed and a franchise-worst 39 points surrendered at Paycor Stadium—left the Bengals at 3-5, clinging to fading playoff hopes in the loaded AFC North.  Linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr., a vocal leader, confirmed the gathering was spearheaded by captains and veteran defenders, emphasizing accountability without coaches present. "It was about owning our mistakes and recommitting to the standard we set last year," Knight told reporters, highlighting a meltdown where Jets quarterback Justin Fields diced up the secondary for 312 passing yards and three touchdowns. Defensive coordinator Al Golden, addressing the media post-meeting, framed it as a "sense of urgency" moment: "These guys are pros—they know when to look in the mirror." This isn't isolated turmoil. Cincinnati's defense, once a Joe Burrow-enabling force, ranks 29th in points allowed (27.1 per game) and dead last in red-zone efficiency, plagued by injuries to stars like Sam Hubbard and inconsistent tackling. The meeting echoes past Bengals resets, like the 2022 sideline blowups that fueled a Super Bowl run, but with higher stakes now—facing a brutal schedule including the Steelers and Ravens. Fans on X buzzed with mixed reactions, from memes mocking the "Jets curse" to calls for Golden's job. Yet, optimism lingers: Lou Anarumo's scheme, if tweaked, could harness young talents like Knight and rookie Jowon Briggs. As Burrow slingshots the offense toward contention, the D must evolve from embarrassment to elite. This meeting? A spark, not a surrender. The Who Dey nation awaits proof. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a gut-wrenching finish at Paycor Stadium, the Cincinnati Bengals squandered a 15-point fourth-quarter lead, falling 39-38 to the winless New York Jets on October 26, 2025. The defeat drops Cincinnati to 3-5, extending their skid to five losses in six games and intensifying scrutiny on a season teetering on the edge of playoff contention.For the Jets (now 1-7), it was a cathartic first victory, fueled by an explosive 502-yard offensive outburst—their highest scoring game of the year. The Bengals dominated early, racing to a 24-10 halftime bulge behind a resurgent ground attack that racked up 181 rushing yards—their most since late 2023. Joe Flacco, the 40-year-old veteran quarterback, orchestrated the assault with poise, completing 21 of 34 passes for 223 yards and two touchdowns, including a 44-yard strike to Tee Higgins that extended his NFL-longest eight-game home touchdown streak. Chase Brown dazzled with dual-threat flair, hauling in a 19-yard touchdown catch-and-run before plunging in from a yard out in the fourth, while Samaje Perine bulldozed for 94 yards and a 32-yard score. Ja'Marr Chase, the league's reception leader with 70, snared 12 balls for 91 yards, underscoring Cincinnati's aerial potency.  Yet, the script flipped disastrously in the final frame. After Brown's go-ahead 1-yard run made it 38-24 with 10:21 left, the Jets erupted for 23 unanswered points, capping the surge with Breece Hall's audacious 4-yard trick-play touchdown pass to Mason Taylor at 1:54—his first career aerial attempt. Hall's 133 rushing yards and two scores epitomized New York's 255-yard ground avalanche, exposing Cincinnati's defensive frailties, particularly without injured DE Trey Hendrickson.  On the Bengals' desperate final drive, Flacco—banged up from a late sack—marched to midfield but fired two incompletions, sealing a turnover on downs amid boos from the 65,526 in attendance. "We had this right in our grasp," lamented coach Zac Taylor, calling the lapse "humbling" and "not acceptable." Flacco echoed the frustration: "A few plays don't hit... and you don't convert." Brown, optimistic about the run game's momentum, urged focus: "We just need to finish. This collapse—scoring 38 points yet losing—highlights deeper woes: an inability to close games and a run defense hemorrhaging yards. With a grueling schedule ahead, Taylor's mantra rings true: "It's still all on the table," but the margin for error has vanished. The Bengals must regroup swiftly, lest this "difficult season" spirals irretrievably. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

On Sunday, October 26, the winless New York Jets (0-7) invade Paycor Stadium to face the Cincinnati Bengals (3-4) in a Week 8 AFC showdown that screams opportunity—and desperation. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET on CBS, with Cincinnati favored by 6.5 points and an over/under of 44, per BetMGM odds. For the Jets, mired in last place in the AFC East and on pace for the No. 1 overall draft pick, this is a must-win to salvage their season under new coach Aaron Glenn. Their offense ranks a dismal 31st in total yards (284.1 per game), plagued by quarterback woes with Justin Fields struggling mightily—netting just minus-10 passing yards in a recent loss to Denver. Yet, New York's defense has been a revelation lately, surrendering just 13 points in back-to-back shutouts against Denver and Carolina, making them a sneaky cover candidate. Running back Breece Hall remains a bright spot, but the Jets' injury-riddled line—key pieces like Alijah Vera-Tucker (triceps, IR) and Israel Abanikanda (shoulder, IR)—leaves them vulnerable to Cincinnati's front seven.  The Bengals, clinging to second in the AFC North behind the 4-2 Steelers, are riding high after a thrilling 33-31 Thursday night upset over Pittsburgh—their first win in four tries. Veteran Joe Flacco, freshly acquired and slotted as starter over Jake Browning, orchestrated the victory with poise, tossing TDs to Tee Higgins (96 yards, score) and Ja'Marr Chase, who etched his name in history with 6,000 career receiving yards and 50 TDs in just five seasons. Chase Brown erupted for 108 rushing yards, fueling a ground game ranked fifth league-wide (135.7 ypg). But short rest from Thursday could breed fatigue, and Cincinnati's defense, leaky at 30.6 points allowed per game, must contain Hall to avoid a trap. Key absences include TE Mike Gesicki (pectoral, IR until Week 12) and OT Cordell Volson (shoulder, IR), testing depth against the Jets' stout secondary. DE Trey Hendrickson (hip) is questionable but logged limited practice, offering hope for a pass rush boost. Analysts give Cincinnati a 74% win probability, but the Jets' defensive grit could grind out a low-scoring affair. Expect Flacco to lean on Chase early, while New York's secondary forces turnovers. In a matchup pitting Jets' resolve against Bengals' firepower, Cincinnati should prevail 27-17, inching toward playoff contention while dooming New York deeper into despair. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a heart-stopping AFC North showdown last night at Paycor Stadium, the Cincinnati Bengals (3-4) edged the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2) 33-31, ending a four-game slide with a dramatic, last-second triumph. Joe Flacco, stepping in for an injured Joe Burrow, delivered a vintage performance, throwing for 342 yards and three touchdowns. His poise under pressure shone in the final minute, leading a surgical drive that set up Evan McPherson’s game-winning 36-yard field goal with seven seconds left. The game was an offensive slugfest. Pittsburgh’s Aaron Rodgers, now fifth all-time in passing yards, struck early, finding Jonnu Smith for a 10-yard touchdown. The Steelers’ Pat Freiermuth dominated, hauling in four receptions for 106 yards, including a 68-yard score that gave Pittsburgh a 31-30 lead with 2:21 remaining. But Cincinnati’s defense answered, with Jordan Battle’s interception of a Rodgers deep ball to DK Metcalf shifting momentum. Ja’Marr Chase was the Bengals’ catalyst, setting a franchise record with 16 catches for 161 yards and a touchdown, joining elite company with his second 14-catch game this season. Tee Higgins added six receptions for 96 yards and a score, while Chase Brown powered the ground game with 108 yards on 11 carries. The Bengals racked up 479 total yards, exploiting a Steelers defense that couldn’t contain Cincinnati’s playmakers late. Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt pressured Flacco, but the Bengals’ offensive line held firm in crunch time. A controversial overturned call on a Chase touchdown kept the game tight, but Flacco’s 28-yard strike to Higgins on the final drive sealed it. Rodgers was efficient but undone by two interceptions. This electrifying win, fueled by Flacco’s heroics and Cincinnati’s relentless attack, signals the Bengals’ resurgence in a fiercely competitive division, keeping playoff dreams alive. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsSteelers

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a clash of AFC North titans gone awry, the surging Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) invade Paycor Stadium to face a reeling Cincinnati Bengals squad (2-4) on Thursday Night Football. What was once a marquee rivalry now feels like a tale of two trajectories: Pittsburgh's three-game win streak has vaulted them to the division lead, while Cincinnati's four straight losses—capped by a 27-18 defeat to Green Bay—have sparked desperation. Joe Burrow's toe injury sidelining him until December forced a midseason pivot, trading for veteran Joe Flacco from Cleveland. The 40-year-old gunslinger debuted last week with 219 yards and two scores, injecting life into an offense dormant under Jake Browning. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, rides Aaron Rodgers' renaissance. The 41-year-old maestro boasts a career-best 105.4 passer rating through five games, with 10 touchdowns and just three picks, slicing defenses for 1,021 yards. His rapport with DK Metcalf has been lethal—Metcalf's four straight TD catches include a scorching 80-yarder—exploiting yards after catch like no other. The Steelers' ground game, turbocharged by Arthur Smith's "Jumbo" packages featuring 290-pound TE Darnell Washington, has averaged 4.4 yards per carry against Cincy's porous 28th-ranked run D. Cincinnati counters with firepower: Ja'Marr Chase erupted for a late TD last outing, and Flacco's familiarity with Pittsburgh—he's 11-11 lifetime against them—could neutralize Mike Tomlin's schemes. Yet injuries loom large: Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson (hip) is questionable, thinning their pass rush (just 3.7% sack rate sans him), while Steelers miss WR Calvin Austin III (shoulder) and S Miles Killebrew (knee). Betting odds tilt toward Pittsburgh as 5.5-point road favorites (O/U 44.5), with sharp money sniffing Bengals value at +225 ML. This gerontocratic QB duel—the third in NFL history pitting 40+ starters—promises fireworks under the lights. Expect Metcalf to feast (Over 70.5 receiving yards) and Pittsburgh's D to force turnovers (Cincy leads the league with 11 giveaways). Steelers pull away late in a 27-20 thriller, solidifying North supremacy. But don't sleep on Flacco's upset magic—after all, these helmets hide Bengal stripes. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsSteelers