Week 1: vs. Los Angeles Chargers
This is a tough debut for Zac Taylor and company. The Chargers have a great defensive line and their receiving options are lethal. There’s no telling how many live reps Burrow will get before this game either. Not to mention, according to ESPN stats and info, the last 12 quarterbacks drafted number one overall have lost their first career start. It’s tough to bet against a trend like that.
Prediction: Loss, 0-1
Week 2: @ Cleveland Browns
It’s not ideal to have a short week to start the season with so many new players expected to step into starting roles. The fresh faces around Paul Brown Stadium will have just four days to prepare for a much-improved Cleveland team.
Prediction: Loss, 0-2
Week 3: @ Philidelphia Eagles
The Eagles, now three years removed from a Super Bowl, are still a solid team. They made a lot of moves to improve their receiving room this offseason, giving Carson Wentz the weapons he deserves. Philidelphia could make it a very disappointing start to the season, but don’t worry, the wins are on the way.
Prediction: Loss, 0-3
Week 4: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars have fallen apart recently, and the Bengals can take advantage in a big way. The team should get their first win of the season and build momentum a quarter of the way through the year.
Prediction: Win, 1-3