The Cincinnati Bengals don't seem to be that bad. They've been quite good the first month, but I don't think anyone outside Cincy could have predicted this kind of start. A 3-1 start to season, a victory in the road division over the struggling Steelers in Pittsburgh, and the sole possession of first in the AFC North after just four weeks.
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This is Cincinnati's best start since 2018. After a record of 4-1, they remembered that they were the Bengals and the season started in the opposite direction. Andy Dalton injured his thumb. He was placed on injured reserve. Another 6-10 finish.
The Bengals now have Joe Burrow, their franchise quarterback, and JaMarr Chase, a potential star wide receiver. Chase has scored four touchdowns in his four first NFL games. Two of those were against the Steelers. You can also see Burrow's confidence grow with every game.
The Bengals' record of winning these games is even more impressive. Their victories have been by three points in two of their three wins. Even their loss to the Bears in Chicago in Week 2 was by three points. They are only 2-1 in close games, so I understand it is early. This must be something.
The first major test for Cincy this season is Week 5, when Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers) visits. It may seem surprising that Rodgers is 2-2 against the Bengals. Although it is a small sample, Bengals fans will find any silver linings. The league would be proud if they beat the Packers.
Rodgers has only averaged 216 yards per game his first three seasons, so the Bengals could be catching Rodgers just in time. This average will likely rise as the Packers face the Steelers in Green Bay Week 4. Zac Taylor, Bengals head coach, would consider defeating the Packers a major accomplishment. Taylor's record in his first two years of being head coach is 6-25-1. If the Bengals win Green Bay, it will be a big step in convincing doubters that Taylor can be a winning coach.
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The Bengals need to get out of their funk and give fans something to cheer for. They've already done that, but they need to continue the fight against the cheeseheads. This could be a significant win that sets the Bengals on a good run for the remainder of the year.
The Bengals have every chance of competing in the AFC North if Burrow is kept on the field. Although the Bengals might not be a surprise to you, winning will leave both fans and detractors stunned.
