Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has voiced his irritation regarding the NFL’s scheduling, particularly with the league’s trend of featuring the Bengals in primetime matchups against the Baltimore Ravens for the fourth consecutive year. During the recent Bengals minicamp, Burrow highlighted his support for the NFL’s international expansion but also urged for more balanced scheduling practices that would allow for home games in Cincinnati, saying, “Maybe make one of those in Cincinnati next year. Please.”
NFL VP of broadcast planning Mike North acknowledged Burrow’s concerns, noting that the league tries to balance its scheduling across all teams, but recognizes when patterns emerge. North stated, “Once you start getting to the same thing three years in a row, four, or five years in a row, whether it’s a short week Thursday on the road or opening on the road. When trends like that emerge, we probably have to adjust at some point.” He expressed some empathy for Bengals fans who may feel disappointed, indicating that while the scheduling is a complex issue, the league is aware of the need for changes.
This ongoing pattern of road games in high-stakes environments highlights an important point: the Bengals, a team known for their exciting play and led by a top-tier quarterback, deserve equal opportunities to showcase their talents at home. Burrow’s situation raises questions about marketing strategies and how the NFL can effectively promote its stars—not just on the road but also in their home stadium.
As the Bengals prepare for their upcoming season, fans can hope for a more favorable schedule that reflects the team’s exciting potential and enhances their presence in the league. Burrow’s willingness to speak out may lead to positive changes, ensuring that the Bengals can enjoy more marquee matchups on their home turf in the future.