Huge Game

By Adam Kiefaber

This game is huge for a number of reasons.

First it is a divisional game against the defending AFC North champs, the Baltimore Ravens.

More importantly, a loss could dramatically hurt Cincinnati’s chances at a playoff run this season.

I know it is only the first game and there will be 15 others, but take a closer look at the schedule.

A Bengals’ win tonight could lead to 4-0 or 3-1 record, while a loss could mean a 1-3 or 2-2 record going into the bye week.

Next week, Cincinnati plays the Browns and should easily win. However, the next two weeks aren’t going to be easy. Week Three involves a long plane ride as Cincinnati visits Seattle. Then it’s back home to play the Patriots on Monday Night Football.

Ok, so break it down: Cincinnati wins tonight, then they take care of business in Cleveland and should win at least one of the Seattle/New England games. New England is tough, but they will be missing Rodney Harrison and Richard Seymour. So, if the Bengals win I think they will end up 3-1.

If Cincinnati loses tonight, they should still be able to handle Cleveland, but then I wouldn’t be surprised to see them drop both the Seattle and New England games. So, if the Bengals lose then I think they will end up 1-3.

So, I truely believe a loss tonight just doesn’t mean 0-1. It will probably mean a whole lot more.

The magic number in the AFC could be 10; meaning 10 wins to make the playoffs.

It would be a lot easier to win 10 if Cincinnati has to win seven of the next 12 instead of winning nine.