Bengals’ fans should buckle up for more primetime games in 2020

CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 15: Joe Mixon #28 of the Cincinnati Bengals reacts during the game against the New England Patriots at Paul Brown Stadium on December 15, 2019 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 15: Joe Mixon #28 of the Cincinnati Bengals reacts during the game against the New England Patriots at Paul Brown Stadium on December 15, 2019 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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With the NFL schedule set to be released this week, Bengals’ fans should buckle up for more prime-time games than they’re used to. 

The NFL continues to give the sports world a glimmer of hope while other leagues have been forced to shut down. News broke on Monday that the league would be announcing each franchise’s schedule later this week. This year, Bengals’ fans should be paying extra-close attention.

Cincinnati is typically one of the more over-looked organizations in the league. They may never get the number of prime-time games of a team like the Dallas Cowboys or New England Patriots, but this year, they could secure a larger share of the spotlight. Thanks to Joe Burrow, there will be a larger demand to see how the number one overall pick performs in his rookie campaign.

Not to mention, there are a number of notable matchups that could be especially intriguing. So much so, that the league may be forced to put them in a number of the big-time slots. Check out their opponents:

Home:

  • Ravens
  • Steelers
  • Browns
  • Cowboys
  • Jaguars
  • Giants
  • Titans
  • Chargers

Away:

  • Ravens
  • Steelers
  • Browns
  • Texans
  • Colts
  • Eagles
  • Redskins
  • Dolphins

This schedule is chocked full of thrilling matchups. When the Bengals travel to Washington D.C., it’ll be the matchup of the first overall pick against number two overall, Chase Young.

The league would be remiss to overlook the tantalizing battles between Burrow and Tua Tagovailoa/Justin Herbert, the top three quarterbacks selected in this year’s draft.

While Andy Dalton is fully expected to be the backup in Dallas, a lot can happen between now and the start of the season. A contest between the Red Rifle and his former team, led by the guy who replaced him, could demand prime-time attention.

Let’s not forget the physical AFC North rivalries usually turn out to be worthy of the biggest stage as well.

Related Story. Cincinnati Bengals could make waves with this projected starting lineup. light

Overall, the new-look Bengals are slated to be a fun team to watch. Don’t be surprised if they’re playing under the lights more than they have in the past.