Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals represent the Queen City in the AFC North, playing at Paycor Stadium along the Ohio River in a city with deep football roots and passionate fans. The Bengals have transformed into one of the NFL's most exciting teams under Joe Burrow, whose poise and accuracy have made Cincinnati a perennial AFC contender. The connection between Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase—dating to their LSU national championship—has created one of the league's most dynamic quarterback-receiver combinations. Cincinnati's orange and black stripes and the Jungle atmosphere create a distinct identity in a division known for physical football. The Bengals continue building on recent success to capture the franchise's first Super Bowl championship.

Paul Brown founded the Bengals in 1968 after his acrimonious departure from Cleveland, bringing his innovative mind to Cincinnati and building a franchise in his image. The 1980s teams featuring Ken Anderson and Boomer Esiason reached two Super Bowls, losing both to Bill Walsh's 49ers in heartbreak that defined the era. The franchise endured decades of frustration—the 'Bungles' years—before Zac Taylor and Joe Burrow's arrival sparked a dramatic turnaround. The 2022 Super Bowl LVI appearance, though a loss to the hometown Rams, announced Cincinnati's return to relevance and gave long-suffering fans hope. The Bengals' recent success has revived one of the NFL's most loyal fanbases and restored pride to the Queen City.