4 games that could decide the Cincinnati Bengals’ season

The Bengals’ one win in the AFC North last year came against the Steelers. Not only did they take down the eventual division winners in a late-season game, but they did it without Joe Burrow at the helm. That was an impressive win even if the Steelers did crumble badly down the stretch last year.

With their win over Pittsburgh last year, the Bengals now know they can beat the boys from the Steel City. The first crack the Bengals get at Pittsburgh in 2021 is in Week 3. Not only is this their first game against the Steelers, but it’s their first game against a divisional opponent, which should really set the tone for the season ahead.

If the Bengals put up a fight against Pittsburgh or can take the Steelers down in their Week 3 meeting, it’ll give the team and the fans confidence that this young Bengals squad can indeed compete in the AFC North. The Steelers could end up being the worst team in the division when it’s all said and done and this is the perfect opportunity for the Bengals to make that the narrative.

A loss to the Steelers in game No. 3, however, would be unfortunate for Cincinnati because it’d give them an 0-1 start in divisional play, and getting that first victory in the AFC North will only get tougher.