Every NFL season brings a fresh wave of excitement, and the 2025 Bengals schedule promises plenty of action for Cincinnati fans. The lineup is packed with marquee games, AFC North rivalries, and must-watch matchups. If you’re planning your game-day viewing, here’s everything you need to know about the Bengals’ path this year.

Bengals Schedule Highlights for 2025

The Bengals open the 2025 season on the road against their long-standing AFC North rival, the Cleveland Browns. This kickoff game isn’t just a battle for early momentum—it’s also a nod to tradition, as the Bengals have met the Browns in Week 1 numerous times. According to reporting from Fox19, this matchup sets the stage for a high-stakes year.

The home opener arrives in Week 2, with the Jacksonville Jaguars visiting Cincinnati. There’s more than just a win at stake; high-profile quarterback showdowns are expected across the early weeks. As fans scan the bengals schedule, certain dates stand out:

• Week 1: @ Cleveland Browns
• Week 2: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
• Week 5: vs. Detroit Lions (nationally televised)
• Week 7: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (Thursday night)
• Week 13: @ Baltimore Ravens (Thanksgiving Night)
• Week 16: @ Miami Dolphins (Sunday Night Football)
• Finale: vs. Cleveland Browns

Key Matchups to Watch

Several games on the Bengals schedule are shaping up to be headline grabbers. In Week 3, Cincinnati travels to Minnesota to take on the Vikings—pitting Ja’Marr Chase against Justin Jefferson in a clash of elite receivers. Later, national broadcasts spotlight the Bengals taking on top contenders like the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins.

A deep dive into each week’s storylines, as expertly covered in the official Bengals 2025 Schedule: Matchups to Watch, reveals which rookies, star QBs, and veteran defenders are set to make the biggest impact. Notably, Thanksgiving Night features a primetime divisional battle in Baltimore against the Ravens—a rare treat for fans and one of only two times the Bengals have played on the holiday.

Rivalries and Stretch Runs

No review of the bengals schedule is complete without noting the high level of competition in the AFC North. The Bengals face the Steelers twice, both in prime slots, highlighting the ongoing chess match between Joe Burrow and legendary defenses. The closing stretch of the season is especially home-friendly—three of the final four games will be played at Paycor Stadium, giving the team a strong chance to finish the year on a high note.

Additional Resources and More Analysis

For a complete, week-by-week breakdown with insights on player matchups and coaching strategies, visit the official Bengals site’s schedule feature. Fans looking for the best way to follow every snap, and possibly save on coverage, should also check out the Enquirer’s subscription specials, which offer in-depth local reporting throughout the season.

Don’t Miss a Moment

The 2025 Bengals schedule is packed with can’t-miss action, dramatic rivalries, and storylines that will shape both the division and the league. Mark your calendars now, and stay tuned for updates, exclusive breakdowns, and more. Whether at the stadium or following from home, this Bengals season is one you won’t want to miss!