In a stunning development just days before the NFL trade deadline, Cincinnati Bengals second-year defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson has formally requested a trade or outright release from the team, marking the third such plea from a Bengals defender this season. The news, first reported by ESPN's Ben Baby, underscores mounting frustrations within a Bengals defense that has surrendered the third-most rushing yards in the league through eight games, ranking 29th overall in points allowed.  Jackson, selected 96th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Texas A&M, entered the league with high expectations as a disruptive interior lineman. At 6-foot-2 and 328 pounds, he boasted a college pedigree of 10 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks over two seasons with the Aggies, drawing comparisons to a young B.J. Hill for his quick first step and run-stuffing prowess. Yet, his rookie year was marred by a knee injury that limited him to just six games, where he recorded a modest 12 tackles and no sacks. This 2025 campaign has been even more perplexing: Jackson has been a healthy scratch for five of eight contests under defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, logging only 18 snaps in the two appearances he did make.  The timing of Jackson's request is particularly telling, coming on the heels of edge rusher Trey Hendrickson (who sought a trade in Week 5 over contract disputes) and linebacker Logan Wilson (who followed suit last week, citing limited snaps in sub-packages). Sources indicate Jackson's dissatisfaction stems from a perceived lack of opportunity behind veterans like Sheldon Rankins and B.J. Hill, coupled with whispers of a looming contract extension that feels premature given his bench role. "It's a cry for playing time where he can develop," one league insider told Bleacher Report, noting Jackson's raw talent remains untapped.  For the Bengals (4-4), already reeling from injuries to key pieces like D.J. Reader, this exodus signals deeper schematic issues. GM Duke Tobin faces a high-stakes decision by November 4: Trade Jackson—a former top-100 pick—for a mid-round pick or risk losing him to free agency in 2027 on a prove-it deal. Potential suitors include run-weak fronts like the Pittsburgh Steelers or Detroit Lions, where Jackson could slot in as a rotational piece immediately.  If no deal materializes, a release seems unlikely, but it could further erode locker room morale. As Cincinnati prepares for a pivotal Thursday night clash with the Chicago Bears, Jackson's saga encapsulates a Bengals defense at a crossroads—talented on paper, but fractured in execution. Will Tobin pull the trigger, or double down on continuity? The deadline clock is ticking, and Who Dey Nation holds its breath. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare to host the Chicago Bears this Sunday in Week 9, the shadow of quarterback Joe Burrow's injury continues to darken their playoff hopes. Burrow, the 2022 NFL passing yards leader, has been sidelined since early October after suffering a severe turf toe injury to his left big toe during a Week 4 loss to the Ravens. Requiring surgery, the ailment—a ligament tear in the toe joint—typically demands three months of recovery, pushing his anticipated return to mid-December. Head coach Zac Taylor provided an encouraging update Wednesday, noting Burrow's rehab is progressing "as hoped" with no setbacks, though he offered no revised timeline. Fans caught a glimpse of optimism when Burrow was spotted boot-free at practice this week, a step forward from his sidelined appearances in a protective walking boot. For this weekend's matchup, Burrow's absence is all but certain, compounding the Bengals' quarterback carousel. Veteran Joe Flacco, who stepped in admirably with 1,200 yards and eight touchdowns in four starts, now grapples with an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder sustained against the Jets. Taylor labeled Flacco's status a "50-50" proposition after he skipped Wednesday's practice, leaving third-stringer Jake Browning as the likely starter. Browning, who went 1-2 in Burrow's initial absence, brings poise but lacks the star power to elevate a 3-5 Bengals squad already battered by injuries to key defenders like Trey Hendrickson. The ripple effects are stark: Cincinnati's offense, once explosive under Burrow's precision (career 68% completion rate), has sputtered without him, averaging just 18 points per game in his starts' void. Facing a Bears defense that's forced 12 turnovers despite their own secondary woes, the Bengals enter as +2.5 underdogs. Social media buzz reflects the frustration—posts joking about Burrow suiting up underscore the desperation.  Yet, silver linings emerge. Burrow's December target aligns with a softer late-season slate, potentially fueling a playoff push if the Bengals string wins together. For now, though, this Bears tilt tests their depth, resilience, and whether Browning can channel Burrow's cool amid the chaos. At 3-5, every snap without No. 9 feels like borrowed time in a brutal AFC North. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In the wake of a humiliating 39-38 home loss to the winless New York Jets on October 26, the Cincinnati Bengals' defense convened a players-only meeting the following day, October 27, exposing deep frustrations within the unit. This gut-wrenching defeat—marked by over 500 yards allowed and a franchise-worst 39 points surrendered at Paycor Stadium—left the Bengals at 3-5, clinging to fading playoff hopes in the loaded AFC North.  Linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr., a vocal leader, confirmed the gathering was spearheaded by captains and veteran defenders, emphasizing accountability without coaches present. "It was about owning our mistakes and recommitting to the standard we set last year," Knight told reporters, highlighting a meltdown where Jets quarterback Justin Fields diced up the secondary for 312 passing yards and three touchdowns. Defensive coordinator Al Golden, addressing the media post-meeting, framed it as a "sense of urgency" moment: "These guys are pros—they know when to look in the mirror." This isn't isolated turmoil. Cincinnati's defense, once a Joe Burrow-enabling force, ranks 29th in points allowed (27.1 per game) and dead last in red-zone efficiency, plagued by injuries to stars like Sam Hubbard and inconsistent tackling. The meeting echoes past Bengals resets, like the 2022 sideline blowups that fueled a Super Bowl run, but with higher stakes now—facing a brutal schedule including the Steelers and Ravens. Fans on X buzzed with mixed reactions, from memes mocking the "Jets curse" to calls for Golden's job. Yet, optimism lingers: Lou Anarumo's scheme, if tweaked, could harness young talents like Knight and rookie Jowon Briggs. As Burrow slingshots the offense toward contention, the D must evolve from embarrassment to elite. This meeting? A spark, not a surrender. The Who Dey nation awaits proof. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a gut-wrenching finish at Paycor Stadium, the Cincinnati Bengals squandered a 15-point fourth-quarter lead, falling 39-38 to the winless New York Jets on October 26, 2025. The defeat drops Cincinnati to 3-5, extending their skid to five losses in six games and intensifying scrutiny on a season teetering on the edge of playoff contention.For the Jets (now 1-7), it was a cathartic first victory, fueled by an explosive 502-yard offensive outburst—their highest scoring game of the year. The Bengals dominated early, racing to a 24-10 halftime bulge behind a resurgent ground attack that racked up 181 rushing yards—their most since late 2023. Joe Flacco, the 40-year-old veteran quarterback, orchestrated the assault with poise, completing 21 of 34 passes for 223 yards and two touchdowns, including a 44-yard strike to Tee Higgins that extended his NFL-longest eight-game home touchdown streak. Chase Brown dazzled with dual-threat flair, hauling in a 19-yard touchdown catch-and-run before plunging in from a yard out in the fourth, while Samaje Perine bulldozed for 94 yards and a 32-yard score. Ja'Marr Chase, the league's reception leader with 70, snared 12 balls for 91 yards, underscoring Cincinnati's aerial potency.  Yet, the script flipped disastrously in the final frame. After Brown's go-ahead 1-yard run made it 38-24 with 10:21 left, the Jets erupted for 23 unanswered points, capping the surge with Breece Hall's audacious 4-yard trick-play touchdown pass to Mason Taylor at 1:54—his first career aerial attempt. Hall's 133 rushing yards and two scores epitomized New York's 255-yard ground avalanche, exposing Cincinnati's defensive frailties, particularly without injured DE Trey Hendrickson.  On the Bengals' desperate final drive, Flacco—banged up from a late sack—marched to midfield but fired two incompletions, sealing a turnover on downs amid boos from the 65,526 in attendance. "We had this right in our grasp," lamented coach Zac Taylor, calling the lapse "humbling" and "not acceptable." Flacco echoed the frustration: "A few plays don't hit... and you don't convert." Brown, optimistic about the run game's momentum, urged focus: "We just need to finish. This collapse—scoring 38 points yet losing—highlights deeper woes: an inability to close games and a run defense hemorrhaging yards. With a grueling schedule ahead, Taylor's mantra rings true: "It's still all on the table," but the margin for error has vanished. The Bengals must regroup swiftly, lest this "difficult season" spirals irretrievably. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

On Sunday, October 26, the winless New York Jets (0-7) invade Paycor Stadium to face the Cincinnati Bengals (3-4) in a Week 8 AFC showdown that screams opportunity—and desperation. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET on CBS, with Cincinnati favored by 6.5 points and an over/under of 44, per BetMGM odds. For the Jets, mired in last place in the AFC East and on pace for the No. 1 overall draft pick, this is a must-win to salvage their season under new coach Aaron Glenn. Their offense ranks a dismal 31st in total yards (284.1 per game), plagued by quarterback woes with Justin Fields struggling mightily—netting just minus-10 passing yards in a recent loss to Denver. Yet, New York's defense has been a revelation lately, surrendering just 13 points in back-to-back shutouts against Denver and Carolina, making them a sneaky cover candidate. Running back Breece Hall remains a bright spot, but the Jets' injury-riddled line—key pieces like Alijah Vera-Tucker (triceps, IR) and Israel Abanikanda (shoulder, IR)—leaves them vulnerable to Cincinnati's front seven.  The Bengals, clinging to second in the AFC North behind the 4-2 Steelers, are riding high after a thrilling 33-31 Thursday night upset over Pittsburgh—their first win in four tries. Veteran Joe Flacco, freshly acquired and slotted as starter over Jake Browning, orchestrated the victory with poise, tossing TDs to Tee Higgins (96 yards, score) and Ja'Marr Chase, who etched his name in history with 6,000 career receiving yards and 50 TDs in just five seasons. Chase Brown erupted for 108 rushing yards, fueling a ground game ranked fifth league-wide (135.7 ypg). But short rest from Thursday could breed fatigue, and Cincinnati's defense, leaky at 30.6 points allowed per game, must contain Hall to avoid a trap. Key absences include TE Mike Gesicki (pectoral, IR until Week 12) and OT Cordell Volson (shoulder, IR), testing depth against the Jets' stout secondary. DE Trey Hendrickson (hip) is questionable but logged limited practice, offering hope for a pass rush boost. Analysts give Cincinnati a 74% win probability, but the Jets' defensive grit could grind out a low-scoring affair. Expect Flacco to lean on Chase early, while New York's secondary forces turnovers. In a matchup pitting Jets' resolve against Bengals' firepower, Cincinnati should prevail 27-17, inching toward playoff contention while dooming New York deeper into despair. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a heart-stopping AFC North showdown last night at Paycor Stadium, the Cincinnati Bengals (3-4) edged the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2) 33-31, ending a four-game slide with a dramatic, last-second triumph. Joe Flacco, stepping in for an injured Joe Burrow, delivered a vintage performance, throwing for 342 yards and three touchdowns. His poise under pressure shone in the final minute, leading a surgical drive that set up Evan McPherson’s game-winning 36-yard field goal with seven seconds left. The game was an offensive slugfest. Pittsburgh’s Aaron Rodgers, now fifth all-time in passing yards, struck early, finding Jonnu Smith for a 10-yard touchdown. The Steelers’ Pat Freiermuth dominated, hauling in four receptions for 106 yards, including a 68-yard score that gave Pittsburgh a 31-30 lead with 2:21 remaining. But Cincinnati’s defense answered, with Jordan Battle’s interception of a Rodgers deep ball to DK Metcalf shifting momentum. Ja’Marr Chase was the Bengals’ catalyst, setting a franchise record with 16 catches for 161 yards and a touchdown, joining elite company with his second 14-catch game this season. Tee Higgins added six receptions for 96 yards and a score, while Chase Brown powered the ground game with 108 yards on 11 carries. The Bengals racked up 479 total yards, exploiting a Steelers defense that couldn’t contain Cincinnati’s playmakers late. Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt pressured Flacco, but the Bengals’ offensive line held firm in crunch time. A controversial overturned call on a Chase touchdown kept the game tight, but Flacco’s 28-yard strike to Higgins on the final drive sealed it. Rodgers was efficient but undone by two interceptions. This electrifying win, fueled by Flacco’s heroics and Cincinnati’s relentless attack, signals the Bengals’ resurgence in a fiercely competitive division, keeping playoff dreams alive. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsSteelers

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a clash of AFC North titans gone awry, the surging Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) invade Paycor Stadium to face a reeling Cincinnati Bengals squad (2-4) on Thursday Night Football. What was once a marquee rivalry now feels like a tale of two trajectories: Pittsburgh's three-game win streak has vaulted them to the division lead, while Cincinnati's four straight losses—capped by a 27-18 defeat to Green Bay—have sparked desperation. Joe Burrow's toe injury sidelining him until December forced a midseason pivot, trading for veteran Joe Flacco from Cleveland. The 40-year-old gunslinger debuted last week with 219 yards and two scores, injecting life into an offense dormant under Jake Browning. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, rides Aaron Rodgers' renaissance. The 41-year-old maestro boasts a career-best 105.4 passer rating through five games, with 10 touchdowns and just three picks, slicing defenses for 1,021 yards. His rapport with DK Metcalf has been lethal—Metcalf's four straight TD catches include a scorching 80-yarder—exploiting yards after catch like no other. The Steelers' ground game, turbocharged by Arthur Smith's "Jumbo" packages featuring 290-pound TE Darnell Washington, has averaged 4.4 yards per carry against Cincy's porous 28th-ranked run D. Cincinnati counters with firepower: Ja'Marr Chase erupted for a late TD last outing, and Flacco's familiarity with Pittsburgh—he's 11-11 lifetime against them—could neutralize Mike Tomlin's schemes. Yet injuries loom large: Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson (hip) is questionable, thinning their pass rush (just 3.7% sack rate sans him), while Steelers miss WR Calvin Austin III (shoulder) and S Miles Killebrew (knee). Betting odds tilt toward Pittsburgh as 5.5-point road favorites (O/U 44.5), with sharp money sniffing Bengals value at +225 ML. This gerontocratic QB duel—the third in NFL history pitting 40+ starters—promises fireworks under the lights. Expect Metcalf to feast (Over 70.5 receiving yards) and Pittsburgh's D to force turnovers (Cincy leads the league with 11 giveaways). Steelers pull away late in a 27-20 thriller, solidifying North supremacy. But don't sleep on Flacco's upset magic—after all, these helmets hide Bengal stripes. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsSteelers

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! On October 16, 2025, Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati will host a pivotal AFC North showdown as the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) invade the reeling Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) for Thursday Night Football. Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET, exclusively on Prime Video. With the Steelers riding a three-game win streak and eyeing sole possession of the division lead, this matchup pits a surging defense against a Bengals squad desperate to halt a brutal four-game skid. The narrative couldn't be more dramatic: a battle of grizzled quarterbacks. Pittsburgh's Aaron Rodgers, 41 and thriving in his one-year Black-and-Gold stint, has injected precision into an offense that's clicked since his offseason arrival. The Steelers' attack averages 22.7 points over its last three games, bolstered by a line allowing just nine sacks. Rodgers faces a Bengals defense ranked near the bottom in QB pressure and sacks, ripe for exploitation. Meanwhile, Cincinnati turns to 40-year-old Joe Flacco, freshly traded from Cleveland, after Joe Burrow's season-ending Grade 3 turf toe surgery. Flacco's debut flop—a 27-18 loss to Green Bay—exposed vulnerabilities, but with Ja'Marr Chase) and Tee Higgins, the passing game could spark. Pittsburgh's defense, a steel wall allowing 14.7 points per game lately, looms large. T.J. Watt (3.5 sacks) and Nick Herbig (4.5 sacks) terrorize from the edge, while Patrick Queen leads with 44 tackles. The Bengals' patchwork offensive line, plagued by injuries to guards Dylan Fairchild (knee) and Lucas Patrick (calf), will struggle to protect Flacco. Cincinnati's run game, led by Chase Brown, must grind to stay afloat. Historically, the Steelers dominate, leading 71-40 all-time and 3-2 in the last five, outscoring Cincinnati by 26 points in those tilts. They've covered in five of six recent meetings, fueling their -5.5 spread favoritism (O/U 42.5). Yet, the Bengals boast a 4-1 home record against AFC foes, hinting at upset potential. This rivalry, born in the 1970s merger madness, always delivers grit. Expect a low-scoring affair—Pittsburgh's five straight unders vs. Cincy scream caution. The Steelers' sharpness should prevail, but Flacco's veteran guile might force a nail-biter. In the end, Pittsburgh pulls away 24-17, extending Cincy's woes while solidifying divisional supremacy. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsSteelers

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! The Cincinnati Bengals' potential trade of star defensive end Trey Hendrickson has gained traction following recent comments from NFL insiders and former players. Hendrickson, a three-time Pro Bowler who led the team with 17.5 sacks in 2024, has been at the center of speculation amid contract disputes and the Bengals' underwhelming 2025 season. Dianna Russini of The Athletic first reported in March 2025 that the Bengals had granted Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, citing his desire for long-term security beyond his current deal, which runs through 2025 with a $15 million base salary. She noted significant interest from teams like the Washington Commanders, with Cincinnati demanding "significant trade compensation" in return. By August, Russini updated that the Bengals were actively engaged in discussions for weeks, not just seeking draft picks but also targeting defensive players to bolster their roster. One source told her that an earlier spring trade might have yielded a higher draft pick, complicated by salary cap issues for suitors. This comes as the Bengals prioritize extensions for Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, potentially squeezing Hendrickson's negotiations. Adding fuel, former Bengals quarterback Boomer Esiason, on the October 13, 2025, episode of the "Up & Adams" show, urged the team to trade Hendrickson if he's healthy, emphasizing the need for draft capital to rebuild. "If he's healthy, I would trade him. If you could get some quality draft picks back, 'cause that's how they're gonna have to rebuild their team," Esiason said. His comments align with Cincinnati's struggles, including Joe Burrow's turf toe injury in September, which has derailed their playoff hopes and shifted focus to future assets. A Hendrickson trade could net a first-round pick or equivalent, given his elite pass-rushing skills (12.5 sacks through Week 6 in 2025). Potential suitors include contenders like the San Francisco 49ers (post-Nick Bosa injury) or Carolina Panthers. However, Bengals GM Duke Tobin has historically resisted midseason deals, preferring to retain core talent. With the November 4 trade deadline looming, Hendrickson's situation remains fluid, balancing his production against team finances and rebuild needs. If moved, it signals a pivot toward youth, but keeping him could stabilize a defense ranked 22nd in pressures. Either way, these insider takes highlight Cincinnati's crossroads. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! As the crisp October air sweeps through Lambeau Field, the Cincinnati Bengals (4-2) roll into Green Bay to face the Packers (5-1) in a Week 7 showdown that promises fireworks. This AFC-NFC crossover pits Joe Burrow's surgical precision against Jordan Love's rising star, with playoff implications simmering beneath the surface. For the Bengals, it's redemption time. After a heartbreaking 0-2 start marred by injuries, Burrow has engineered a three-game win streak, dissecting defenses with 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns. Tee Higgins is back, forming a lethal duo with Ja'Marr Chase, who leads the league in receiving yards. The ground game? Joe Mixon is a beast, averaging 5.2 yards per carry. Defensively, Lou Anarumo's unit has stiffened, holding opponents to under 20 points in their last three wins. But the secondary remains vulnerable—watch for Love to exploit that with his quick release. The Packers, meanwhile, are the NFL's hottest team, riding a five-game heater fueled by Love's poise and a balanced attack. He's thrown for 1,800 yards with just three picks, spreading the ball to Christian Watson's deep threats and Jayden Reed's slot magic. Aaron Jones is gashing runs at 4.8 yards per pop, while the O-line, anchored by David Bakhtiari's return, gives Love clean pockets. Green Bay's defense? Elite. Jaire Alexander locks down receivers, and Rashan Gary's pass rush has 12 sacks already. They feast on turnovers, forcing eight in their streak. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a stunning intra-division swap, the Cincinnati Bengals acquired veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns on October 7, 2025—the first trade between the AFC North rivals since the Browns' 1999 return. The deal cost Cincinnati a 2026 fifth-round pick, while netting them Flacco and a 2026 sixth-rounder from Detroit. This move comes amid a quarterback quandary: franchise star Joe Burrow has been sidelined since Week 2 with turf toe, projected to miss at least eight weeks, leaving the Bengals (2-3) mired in a three-game skid. Backup Jake Browning's tenure has been disastrous, with eight interceptions against six touchdowns, tanking an offense that ranks last in yards (228.6 per game) and fourth-worst in scoring (17.0 points). Weapons like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have been neutralized, as Browning's 64.5% completion rate and turnover woes have stifled Cincinnati's explosiveness. Coach Zac Taylor, noncommittal post a 37-24 loss to Detroit, signaled urgency ahead of Thursday's clash with Pittsburgh. Flacco, 40 and an 18-year vet, steps in as the presumptive starter, released backups Brett Rypien and Mike White to clear space. Why Flacco? His 2023 Comeback Player of the Year magic—leading the Browns to the playoffs—lingers, despite a rocky 2025 (1-3, 58.1% completion, 815 yards, 2 TDs, 6 INTs). Benchings for rookie Dillon Gabriel made him expendable in Cleveland, where Deshaun Watson's Achilles recovery looms. Flacco's AFC North savvy shines: 11 career wins over the Steelers, a Week 3 Browns victory versus Green Bay (Cincinnati's Week 6 foe). His under-center snaps could revive play-action, contrasting Taylor's shotgun-heavy scheme tailored for Burrow. Skeptics question Flacco's arm fading, but at a bargain price, it's low-risk salvation. A 5-4 stretch under Flacco could position the Bengals at 7-7 for Burrow's potential December return, vaulting them into the playoff mix in a muddled division (Steelers lead at 3-1). Chase tweeted excitement: "Old heads know how to win." If Flacco channels his Super Bowl grit, this trade could rewrite Cincinnati's season from farce to redemption. Otherwise, it's another Bengals heartbreak in a rivalry-rich North. Packers vs. Bengals: Week 6 PreviewThe Green Bay Packers (2-1-1) host the reeling Cincinnati Bengals (2-3) at Lambeau Field on Sunday, Oct. 12, at 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS). Coming off a Week 5 bye, Green Bay enters as a 14.5-point favorite, with the total at 46.5. azcentral.com This Lambeau clash pits a rested Packers squad against a Bengals team desperate for stability after Joe Burrow's season-ending Grade 3 turf toe surgery. espn.com Key Storylines:Cincinnati's offense has cratered without Burrow, ranking last in success rate (36.1%) and allowing the third-most passing yards (1,295). sharpfootballanalysis.com Veteran Joe Flacco, acquired midweek from Cleveland, makes his Bengals debut, but faces a Packers secondary yielding just 205.8 passing yards per game (11th-fewest). bengals.com Green Bay's Jordan Love, fresh off torching Dallas for 319 yards in a 40-40 tie, should exploit Cincy's porous pass defense (27th in pressure rate). si.com RB Josh Jacobs (76.4 PFF grade) bolsters the run game, while rookie WR Matthew Golden adds explosiveness. bengals.com Bengals WRs Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins could test CB Nate Hobbs (concussion protocol, limited). acmepackingcompany.com Injuries: Bengals are decimated—Burrow out three months, S Geno Stone (calf on IR), G Cordell Volson (shoulder IR). espn.com Packers: DT Devonte Wyatt (knee DNP), OT Anthony Belton (ankle DNP), G Aaron Banks (groin doubtful), TE Tucker Kraft (questionable), T Zach Tom (questionable). packers.com WR Jayden Reed remains on IR (foot/collarbone).  Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRu

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a stunning intra-division swap, the Cincinnati Bengals acquired veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns on October 7, 2025—the first trade between the AFC North rivals since the Browns' 1999 return. The deal cost Cincinnati a 2026 fifth-round pick, while netting them Flacco and a 2026 sixth-rounder from Detroit. This move comes amid a quarterback quandary: franchise star Joe Burrow has been sidelined since Week 2 with turf toe, projected to miss at least eight weeks, leaving the Bengals (2-3) mired in a three-game skid. Backup Jake Browning's tenure has been disastrous, with eight interceptions against six touchdowns, tanking an offense that ranks last in yards (228.6 per game) and fourth-worst in scoring (17.0 points). Weapons like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have been neutralized, as Browning's 64.5% completion rate and turnover woes have stifled Cincinnati's explosiveness. Coach Zac Taylor, noncommittal post a 37-24 loss to Detroit, signaled urgency ahead of Thursday's clash with Pittsburgh. Flacco, 40 and an 18-year vet, steps in as the presumptive starter, released backups Brett Rypien and Mike White to clear space. Why Flacco? His 2023 Comeback Player of the Year magic—leading the Browns to the playoffs—lingers, despite a rocky 2025 (1-3, 58.1% completion, 815 yards, 2 TDs, 6 INTs). Benchings for rookie Dillon Gabriel made him expendable in Cleveland, where Deshaun Watson's Achilles recovery looms. Flacco's AFC North savvy shines: 11 career wins over the Steelers, a Week 3 Browns victory versus Green Bay (Cincinnati's Week 6 foe). His under-center snaps could revive play-action, contrasting Taylor's shotgun-heavy scheme tailored for Burrow. Skeptics question Flacco's arm fading, but at a bargain price, it's low-risk salvation. A 5-4 stretch under Flacco could position the Bengals at 7-7 for Burrow's potential December return, vaulting them into the playoff mix in a muddled division (Steelers lead at 3-1). Chase tweeted excitement: "Old heads know how to win." If Flacco channels his Super Bowl grit, this trade could rewrite Cincinnati's season from farce to redemption. Otherwise, it's another Bengals heartbreak in a rivalry-rich North. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! The Cincinnati Bengals' 2025 season, once brimming with Super Bowl whispers, has devolved into a sobering 2-3 skid, capped by a humiliating 37-24 home loss to the Detroit Lions on October 5. Jake Browning, thrust into the starting role after Joe Burrow's turf toe surgery sidelined the star QB for months, engineered a late rally with three fourth-quarter touchdown passes to Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. But it was too little, too late—Detroit's backfield duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery carved up the Bengals' defense for 14 combined scores, tying an NFL record and exposing Cincy's porous run D, which has surrendered 150+ yards in each of the last three defeats. Over the past trio of games, the Bengals have been outscored 113-37, their offense sputtering at a league-worst 17 points per game without Burrow's magic. Browning's eight picks this season scream turnover roulette, while the once-vaunted pass rush—led by Trey Hendrickson—has tallied just five sacks since Week 2. Fans, donning paper bags at Paycor Stadium, are left questioning Zac Taylor's schemes amid a franchise-record futility streak. Now, eyes turn to a daunting Week 6 road tilt against the Green Bay Packers on October 12 at Lambeau Field. Green Bay (2-1-1) enters post-bye, fresh and ferocious, with Jordan Love slinging eight TDs against one INT in four games. Their ground game, powered by Josh Jacobs' 1,300+ yards from a year ago, could feast on Cincy's leaky front. Oddsmakers peg the Pack as 14.5-point favorites, predicting a Bengals upset probability under 40%. Yet, in the shadow of Burrow's eventual return, this could be the grit-check that reignites Bengal Nation—or buries their playoff hopes deeper. Resilience or rout? Lambeau will tell. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a game that started as a nightmare and ended in futile desperation, the Cincinnati Bengals fell 37-24 to the Detroit Lions on October 5, 2025, at Paycor Stadium, extending their skid to three straight defeats. What began as a 28-3 halftime rout—fueled by Detroit's explosive backfield duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery tying an NFL record with their 14th combined touchdown—devolved into a fourth-quarter mirage for Bengals fans. Cincinnati, now 2-3, has been outscored 113-37 over this brutal stretch, a stark reminder of life without injured star Joe Burrow. Quarterback Jake Browning, filling in admirably during a 2023 late-season surge, looked utterly lost under center. He threw three interceptions—two deep in Bengals territory that gifted Detroit short-field touchdowns—before salvaging his stat line with 251 yards and three fourth-quarter scores to Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Those late strikes, including a 65-yard bomb to Chase, trimmed the deficit to 35-24 and sparked brief "Stripe the Jungle" chants amid boos that rained down after his third pick. But it was too little, too late; a failed onside kick and safety sealed the embarrassment. Browning now ranks second in the NFL with eight picks, his adjusted EPA per dropback a woeful -0.44, dead last among qualifiers. Head coach Zac Taylor shouldered blame for the slow starts but doubled down on faith in Browning, saying, "I believe Jake can win games for us." Yet, postgame whispers of accountability rang hollow: Taylor admitted hearing bench calls from the crowd, while Browning owned his "awful" play, deferring any changes to the staff. The leash? Shortening fast. With Burrow sidelined until at least December from toe surgery, rumors swirl of an upgrade. Analysts urge trading for a veteran like Russell Wilson or the benched Kirk Cousins to stem the bleeding—Brett Rypien, the roster's only other QB, boasts a 4-9 TD-INT ratio in limited action. Facing Green Bay next, then primetime tilts against the Jets and Steelers, Cincinnati's 2-3 perch in a wobbly AFC North (Ravens and Browns at 1-4) offers a lifeline. But sticking with Browning risks irrelevance; the front office must act, or this season crumbles before Burrow's return. The Bengals' Super Bowl window creaks open—don't slam it shut with indecision. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! The Cincinnati Bengals (2-2) host the Detroit Lions (3-1) at Paycor Stadium on Sunday, October 5, 2025, in a 4:25 p.m. ET FOX showdown—America's Game of the Week. With Joe Burrow sidelined by injury, backup Jake Browning steps up amid a Bengals offense averaging a league-worst 19.3 points and 205 yards per game. Last week's 3-point dud in Denver exposed their woes: just 159 total yards and nine first downs. Defensively, they're porous, allowing 30+ points in three of four contests. Ja'Marr Chase remains elite, but Cincy's 2-2 ATS mark as underdogs screams fragility. Home cooking offers slim hope—they score 31 at Paycor but concede 27. Detroit roars in on a three-game heater, leading the NFL with 34.2 points and 365 yards per game. Jared Goff's precision (9 TDs, 2 INTs) fuels a balanced attack, with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery gashing defenses (top-10 rush duo). New OC John Morton adds wrinkles to Dan Campbell's gritty scheme. The Lions' D, allowing 317 yards nightly, thrives in chaos. They're 3-1 ATS on the road lately, and experts peg a 75% win probability. Odds: Lions -10.5, total 47.5. Simulations favor a tight 25-24 Detroit squeaker, but most see a rout. For Bengals fans, it's survival mode; for Lions, a statement en route to contention. The 2025 MLB Division Series explode into action Saturday, October 4, pitting powerhouses against wild-card warriors in best-of-five thrillers. In the AL, powerhouse Toronto Blue Jays (1 seed) host the surging New York Yankees (WC), where Aaron Judge's bat clashes with Toronto's deep rotation led by Kevin Gausman. Meanwhile, Seattle Mariners (2 seed) face gritty Detroit Tigers, with Tarik Skubal's 14-K wild-card gem eyeing a repeat against Seattle's ace Luis Castillo—expect pitching duels in the Emerald City. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a heart-wrenching conclusion to their improbable 2025 season, the Cincinnati Reds fell 8-4 to the Los Angeles Dodgers on October 1 at Dodger Stadium, swept out of the MLB playoffs in the National League Wild Card Series. The loss capped a valiant but ultimately futile effort from a young Reds squad that defied 83-79 odds to snag a postseason berth, only to collide with the juggernaut defending champions. The game mirrored the series' narrative: Cincinnati's flashes of brilliance smothered by L.A.'s relentless firepower. Reds starter Zack Littell kept it close early, allowing just two runs through five innings. But the Dodgers' offense—fueled by 13 hits and opportunistic small ball—erupted in the sixth, plating four runs to seize a 6-2 lead. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Japanese ace, was masterful for L.A., fanning nine in 6.2 innings while navigating a bases-loaded jam in the sixth that could have swung momentum. Cincinnati's fightback was fierce. They grabbed a 2-0 first-inning lead on Sal Stewart's two-run RBI single that eluded Freddie Freeman's glove— their first postseason advantage since 2012. Elly De La Cruz dazzled with his trademark speed, legging out infield hits and swiping bags, while Matt McLain's diving stops kept hope alive. Late rallies narrowed the gap, loading the bases in the eighth, but the bullpen faltered, and Jack Dreyer's escapes sealed the deal. For the Reds, it's a bitter pill. This roster, blending raw talent like De La Cruz and Greene with veterans like Stephenson, showed October mettle. Yet, against the Dodgers' star-studded lineup—Ohtani's clutch RBI, Betts' timely double—the gap was exposed. As L.A. advances to face the Phillies, Cincinnati heads to the drawing board, rebuilding around its dynamic core. The future burns bright, but tonight, the sting of elimination lingers. Onward to 2026. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPostseason

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a stunning display of postseason firepower, the Cincinnati Reds' long-awaited return to October ended abruptly with a 10-5 thrashing by the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series on September 30 at Dodger Stadium. For the Reds, who clawed their way into the playoffs for the first time since 2020, the night served as a harsh reminder of the chasm between scrappy upstarts and a loaded powerhouse. A raucous crowd of 50,555 watched as L.A. unleashed five home runs, turning ace Hunter Greene's start into a nightmare. Greene, the Reds' flame-throwing righty and a lifelong Dodgers fan, entered with sky-high expectations. But the Dodgers pounced immediately. Facing a 100.4 mph fastball, Shohei Ohtani crushed a 117.7 mph line drive for a solo homer to right, igniting the fuse. Mookie Betts singled, and the floodgates opened: Teoscar Hernández blasted a three-run shot, followed by homers from Will Smith and Max Muncy. Greene's line was brutal—five runs, three homers, six hits over four innings on 65 pitches. "He didn't locate, and when he didn't, he paid a price," lamented manager Terry Francona. The Dodgers' onslaught continued behind Blake Snell's masterful seven innings, fanning nine while allowing just two runs. Ohtani added a 454-foot two-run bomb off reliever Connor Phillips in the sixth, his second of the night, as L.A. built a 10-2 cushion by the seventh. The Dodgers became only the fifth team with two multi-homer players in a playoff game, per MLB stats. Cincinnati flickered late, capitalizing on a Dodgers bullpen wobble in the eighth. Relievers Alex Vesia, Edgardo Henriquez, and Jack Dreyer issued four walks, allowing the Reds to bat around and plate three runs via a Spencer Steer single and forced errors. Elly De La Cruz's RBI groundout and Tyler Stephenson's double offered brief hope, but it was too little, too late. The Reds stranded seven runners, their offense mustering seven hits but zero long balls. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPostseason

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! Last night's "Monday Night Football" showdown at Empower Field at Mile High turned into a nightmare for the Cincinnati Bengals, who fell flat in a humiliating 28-3 drubbing by the Denver Broncos. Entering Week 4 at 2-1, the Bengals were riding high after gritty wins over the Browns and Jaguars, but the absence of star quarterback Joe Burrow—sidelined by a Grade 3 turf toe injury—exposed their vulnerabilities like never before. Backup Jake Browning, thrust into the spotlight, managed a dismal 14-of-25 for just 105 yards, with zero touchdowns and the offense mustering a pathetic 159 total yards. It was a symphony of miscues: penalties stalled drives, the line crumbled under pressure, and the defense, once a Bengals hallmark, leaked like a sieve. The Broncos, meanwhile, feasted. Rookie sensation Bo Nix orchestrated a masterclass, completing 29 of 42 passes for 326 yards, two aerial scores, and adding a rushing touchdown to cap his MVP-worthy night. Running back J.K. Dobbins bulldozed for 101 yards—the first 100-yard rusher under coach Sean Payton—while receiver R.J. Harvey snagged a 12-yard touchdown to seal the rout. Denver's opportunistic play turned Bengals turnovers into points, improving the Broncos to 2-2 and injecting life into a franchise starved for prime-time joy. For Cincinnati, now 2-2, the loss stings in a wide-open AFC North, with a daunting Lions matchup looming on Oct. 5. Burrow's return can't come soon enough; without him, the Who-Dey faithful are left questioning if this team's championship window is slamming shut. Shifting gears to baseball, Cincinnati sports fans get a shot at catharsis tonight as the Reds clash with the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series at Dodger Stadium (9:08 p.m. ET, ESPN). The Reds (83-79) stormed into October on the regular season's final day, edging the Mets in a payroll-punishing thriller—their first playoff dance since 2020. Riding momentum, they're underdogs at +167 odds, but sparkplug shortstop Elly De La Cruz (22 HRs, 86 RBIs) could be the X-factor, his speed and flair a nightmare for LA's stars like Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman (.295 BA, scorching lately). On the hill, Reds ace Hunter Greene faces Dodgers lefty Blake Snell in a pitcher's duel, with the over/under at 7.5. LA (93-69), the defending champs with a half-billion-dollar payroll, dominated the season series 30-15 but swept Cincy at home last month. Still, the Reds' sneaky bullpen edge and 30-year-old ghosts of their 1995 NLDS sweep over LA fuel upset dreams. A Reds win tonight? It'd be the ultimate salve for Bengals wounds, proving Cincinnati's stripes run deeper than one bad night. Buckle up—October magic awaits. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPostseason

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a season of twists and tenacious comebacks, the Cincinnati Reds etched their name back into MLB's October lore on September 28, 2025. Despite a gritty 4-2 defeat to the Milwaukee Brewers in their regular-season finale, the Reds clinched the National League's final Wild Card spot, thanks to the New York Mets' heartbreaking collapse against the Miami Marlins. Holding a decisive 4-2 head-to-head edge over the Mets, Cincinnati secured their 17th postseason berth—the first in a full 162-game campaign since 2013 and their first deep run since sweeping the Dodgers in the 1995 NLDS.  This improbable resurrection from a six-game deficit in early September showcases the Reds' cockroach-like resilience, as outfielder TJ Friedl quipped. New manager Terry Francona's steady hand transformed a young, volatile roster into playoff contenders, blending Elly De La Cruz's electric speed with Hunter Greene's fireballing mound presence. Fans stormed Great American Ball Park in euphoric disbelief, popping champagne amid chants of "Reds October!" Their reward: a high-stakes Wild Card showdown against the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, where underdog fire meets Hollywood glamour. Cincinnati's window is wide open—expect fireworks, not just participation trophies. As the baseball champagne dries, Cincy's gridiron warriors pivot to primetime redemption. Tonight, September 29, the 2-1 Bengals invade Empower Field at Mile High to battle the 1-2 Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN). Without star QB Joe Burrow sidelined by injury, Jake Browning steps into the spotlight, his turnover-prone start (five picks in six quarters) clashing against Denver's ferocious No. 1-ranked pass rush The Broncos, desperate after back-to-back road heartbreaks, loom as 7.5-point favorites, fueled by rookie RB J.K. Dobbins' ground-and-pound (74 yards per game) and Courtland Sutton's red-zone menace. Cincinnati's 22nd-ranked defense, vulnerable to the run, faces a high-altitude bully ball at thin air. Yet, Ja'Marr Chase's explosiveness could flip the script in this AFC showdown, where the Bengals boast a 6-0 streak against conference foes. Under 43.5 total points? A trench war looms, but Who Dey Nation dreams of Burrow-less magic. From diamond triumph to gridiron grit, Cincinnati owns the spotlight—pure, unfiltered Queen City passion. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPostseason

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! Under the glaring lights of Great American Ball Park, the Cincinnati Reds' playoff dreams flickered and faded in the cruel twilight of extra innings. On September 24, 2025, a fired-up crowd of 30,725 watched in stunned silence as the Pittsburgh Pirates snatched a 4-3 victory in the 11th, delivering a dagger to Cincinnati's NL wild-card hopes. Tied with Arizona and just one game behind the Mets entering the night, the Reds now stare at a precarious half-game deficit with only five contests left—a loss that feels like the backbreaker in a season of tantalizing what-ifs. The evening began as a pitcher's duel for the ages, pitting Reds ace Hunter Greene against Pirates phenom Paul Skenes, the NL Cy Young frontrunner. Greene, battling for his 8th win, scattered five hits over six innings, allowing two earned runs while fanning seven. But Skenes was untouchable, surrendering just four hits in six scoreless frames, whiffing seven and etching his name in franchise lore with his 211th strikeout—a Pirates record for a righty. Pittsburgh scratched out a 2-0 lead in the second on Bryan Reynolds' RBI single and Oneil Cruz's sacrifice fly, quieting the home faithful. Hope ignited in the eighth. Down 2-0, Noelvi Marte unleashed chaos with his first career inside-the-park homer, a liner off the wall that caromed wildly into left-center, allowing him to circle the bases untouched. The GABP erupted. Then, in the ninth, Tyler Stephenson crushed a solo shot off closer Dennis Santana, knotting it at 2-2 and forcing extras. "Stephenson's blast was pure adrenaline," Reds manager Terry Francona said postgame. "We had momentum." But baseball's heartless script twisted in the 10th. Jack Suwinski's RBI double plated the go-ahead run for a 3-2 Pirates edge. The Reds clawed back on Gavin Lux's sacrifice fly, tying it once more at 3-3. Agony peaked in the 11th: Spencer Horwitz's leadoff double scored Reynolds—his third run of the night—for a 4-3 lead. Cincinnati loaded the bases with two outs, hearts pounding, only for Marte to ground into a momentum-crushing force out against Yohan Ramirez. Final out. Ballgame over. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPirates