3 reasons why the Cincinnati Bengals lost Super Bowl LVI

It was a historic season on the banks of the Ohio River, as the Cincinnati Bengals did things not even the most ardent homer thought possible in August.

Getting the playoff monkey off their back was huge, perhaps the most fulfilling moment as a fan that I personally have had in two decades plus.

The Bengals swept the Steelers, embarrassed the Ravens twice, had stirring comeback after stirring comeback, including a near-death experience against the Chiefs to clinch the North and did it all in an ”aw shucks” fashion.

The 2021-22 Bengals were perhaps the most likable team in franchise history. No drama, no huge egos, no off-field clowns, no on-field clowns for that matter. To top off the season, the team got red hot and swept through the playoffs, defeating both the top seed Titans and Chiefs in Arrowhead to advance to Super Bowl LVI.

I know everyone knows all this. I also know most fans are dealing with a mix of pain, sadness, anger, and optimism. I also know what I think are the three reasons (among several), that the Bengals lost Super Bowl LVI.

As always these opinions are subjective. You may not agree, you may think I’m way off base. What is certain to me is these three things factored in a huge way to the loss. Let’s take a look.