Cincinnati Bengals Miss Out on Prime Time Opportunity Again
The Cincinnati Bengals have been dealt another disappointing blow as their scheduled game against the Arizona Cardinals has been relegated to a less favorable time slot. Originally in contention for a prime-time appearance, this matchup will now take place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, a decision confirmed by the NFL today.
Recent Scheduling Changes
This marks the second consecutive week that the Bengals have seen their game time shifted away from a major television slot. Their previously scheduled game against the Buffalo Bills was also moved from a national audience at 4:25 p.m. to a 1 p.m. kickoff. The NFL’s decision was made to prioritize the rivalry matchup between the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers for the coveted prime-time slot.
Week 17 Matchup Details
The two Saturday games on December 27 now feature the Houston Texans taking on the Los Angeles Chargers at 4:30 p.m., followed by the Baltimore Ravens facing the Green Bay Packers at 8 p.m. The remaining games scheduled for Sunday include the Seattle Seahawks visiting the Carolina Panthers and the New York Giants against the Las Vegas Raiders, a contest that could have significant implications for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Looking Ahead to Week 18
With today’s announcement, the Bengals have just one game left to be scheduled, as all matchups for Week 18 remain to be determined. Cincinnati will host the Cleveland Browns that weekend, and the NFL has until Monday, December 29, to finalize the dates and times for the season’s concluding weekend. Similar to Week 17, two Saturday games are also planned for Week 18. Last year, the Bengals played a crucial Saturday game in Week 18 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, securing a 19-17 victory that kept their playoff hopes alive until a subsequent game altered their fate.
Playoff Aspirations and Network Interest
While a matchup between the Bengals and Browns may not initially seem like a marquee standalone event, there are layers of intrigue to consider. If the Bengals enter their game with a 7-9 record and still harbor playoff aspirations, the clash with Shedeur Sanders and the Browns could attract significant network interest. The NFL often seeks to showcase games that feature vibrant personalities and potential postseason implications, while balancing the competitive landscape to avoid scenarios where a Saturday outcome affects teams scheduled to play on Sunday.
For the latest updates on the Bengals, fans can explore comprehensive coverage, including exclusive interviews and detailed analysis, through various platforms dedicated to Cincinnati football.
