The Cincinnati Bengals are heading into the 2025 season with a familiar mix of hope and challenge. After a second consecutive year missing the playoffs, marked by a sluggish start, the team faces a schedule that, on paper, looks pretty daunting. But as we've seen before, Joe Burrow and this Bengals squad have a knack for defying expectations.
Let's break down what the early part of the 2025 schedule might hold, game by game.
Week 1: @ Cleveland Browns (Prediction: Win)
Opening the season on the road against a division rival is never easy, and the Browns, with Myles Garrett, certainly present a formidable pass rush. However, the Bengals' receiving duo of Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are the kind of equalizers that can neutralize even the best defensive fronts. If Cincinnati can exploit the middle of the field and attack the Browns' cornerbacks, they could very well kick off their season with an important intradivision road victory. A 31-20 win feels within reach.
Week 2: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (Prediction: Win)
This early-season matchup against the Jaguars could be a different story if it were played later in the year, once Jacksonville has had more time to gel with new offensive and defensive schemes. As it stands, the Bengals might be able to capitalize on some early coverage breakdowns from the Jaguars' secondary. While a player like Travis Hunter could make noise, Burrow and his crew are poised to take advantage of any mistakes and secure a 27-21 victory.
Week 3: @ Minnesota Vikings (Prediction: Loss)
This is where the schedule really starts to bite. While the Vikings' secondary is a concern, the real test for Cincinnati will be whether their offensive line can hold up against an elite pass rush, giving Burrow the time he needs. Facing an inexperienced quarterback like J.J. McCarthy offers some relief, but ultimately, the superior roster and coaching of the Vikings might just be enough to edge out the Bengals, perhaps in a close 28-24 contest.
Week 4: @ Denver Broncos (Prediction: Loss)
This one looks tough. The Denver Broncos' secondary is shaping up to be one of the best in the league, and their defense as a whole could be even more dominant than last season. Add to that the anticipated second-year leap for quarterback Bo Nix under Sean Payton's guidance, and you have a recipe for a very difficult outing for Cincinnati. While Burrow always gives his team a chance, the sheer firepower and coaching on the Broncos' side might prove too much, leading to a 24-17 loss.
Week 5: vs. Detroit Lions (Prediction: Loss)
This prediction suggests a potential three-game losing streak early in the season, a scenario that would undoubtedly test the Bengals' resilience. By this point, the Lions' revamped interior offense should be settled, and their defense remains one of the most talented in the league. Chase and Higgins will likely still find ways to make plays, keeping it close, but the Lions are expected to control this game from start to finish, resulting in a 35-28 defeat for Cincinnati.
Week 6: @ Green Bay Packers (Prediction: Win)
Things could start to turn around at Lambeau Field. This looks like it could be a high-scoring affair, with Burrow and Jordan Love trading blows. Josh Jacobs will likely give the Bengals' defense a tough time. However, in a scenario where the Packers take a late lead, it's easy to imagine Burrow connecting with Chase for a game-winning touchdown, snatching a 35-31 victory.
Week 7: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (Prediction: Win)
Another divisional matchup, and another potential win. Even with a strong Steelers pass rush, the Bengals' offense has shown it can find ways to score. If Aaron Rodgers faces pressure and turns the ball over, it could provide Cincinnati with crucial short fields. An all-around team effort against a rival could lead to a 31-27 win.
Week 8: vs. New York Jets (Prediction: Win)
The Jets boast a formidable defense, potentially shadowing one of the Bengals' top receivers with Sauce Gardner. However, that still leaves other matchups for Burrow to exploit. This could also be a favorable spot for Trey Hendrickson to get after the quarterback. Securing a fifth win of the season, perhaps with a 31-24 scoreline, seems plausible.
Week 9: vs. Chicago Bears (Prediction: Win)
Facing the Chicago Bears earlier in the season is often seen as advantageous, and this prediction suggests the Bengals will capitalize on that. While the Bears have talent, particularly on defense, the Bengals' offensive firepower, led by Burrow, should be able to overcome them at home. This could be another step towards building momentum, potentially a 31-21 win.
