Football
The Cincinnati Bengals are just one victory away from setting an undesirable NFL record.
The article highlights the Cincinnati Bengals’ quest to tie a franchise record for road wins in a single season, a feat that underscores both their impressive away performances and struggles at home this year.
Here are the key points:
- Record Within Reach:
The Bengals currently stand at 5-3 on the road with one away game remaining – a Week 18 showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on January 5. A victory would tie the franchise record for road wins in a season (six), a mark achieved by Bengals teams in 1981, 2005, 2012, 2015, and 2022. - Common Thread – Playoff Teams:
All five Bengals teams with six road wins made the playoffs. However, even if this year’s team matches that record, their postseason hopes remain slim due to their overall performance. - Historical Context:
In the Super Bowl era, 11 teams won six road games but failed to make the playoffs. Notable examples include the 1970 Rams, 1989 Redskins, and 2008 Patriots. - Home vs. Road Struggles:
This year’s Bengals have struggled mightily at home, with a 1-5 record. A win in Week 18 would push their road-to-home win differential to five, a rare and unwanted occurrence.- The 2010 Dolphins share this dubious distinction, finishing with just one home victory despite five road wins.
- The 2021 Arizona Cardinals also stand out, going 8-1 on the road but just 3-5 at home before losing in the Wildcard Round.
- Unique Season:
The Bengals’ unusual split between road success and home struggles makes for a historic, if frustrating, season. While their ability to win on the road is commendable, their lack of home dominance has likely cost them a shot at the playoffs.
The piece combines statistical history and current performance trends to paint a clear picture of the Bengals’ season, emphasizing their uphill climb and rare circumstances in NFL history.
