Bengals: 3 ways Joe Burrow can shine vs. Vikings in Week 1

3. Have a short memory and focus on improving one play at a time

There are many expectations for Joe Burrow this year; the anticipation level is through the roof right now, and having his first game back be a home opener in Paul Brown Stadium, the place should be loud and full of excitement.

I’m not too worried about Burrow being affected by negative plays. He has a great mindset and approach, but focusing on improving as a unit one play at a time will be necessary even if it doesn’t seem like the offense is clicking.

Not buying into the hype and playing the game the way he played last season before the injury, Poised, focused, and team-driven football will lead to positive play. Bengals fans and the media will expect sparks right at kickoff, and people will become uneasy if things aren’t going as planned. That’s something the Bengals will need to be prepared for.

Now could they come out and play great from the jump? Yes, but don’t be shocked if they look rusty or if miscues happen.

As long as the team is improving as the game goes on, then that is a positive. Bengals Nation would love to see everything be fluent and smooth but this is the NFL — Burrow is human, coming off an injury that required a lot of healing time.

Be patient and trust the process as the game and the season develop.