PALM BEACH, Fla. – The Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for a thrilling 2025 season that promises to showcase their star power and competitive spirit. This year, the Bengals are poised to have the spotlight on them with a schedule that includes an expected increase in prime-time games, international matchups, and the potential of facing off on Thanksgiving.
Mike North, the NFL’s vice president of broadcasting planning and scheduling, shared insights on the scheduling process during the league’s annual meeting. The Bengals are set to feature prominently, likely surpassing the six prime-time games they played last season. As North put it, “There’s a lot more opportunity for the teams that are worthy of national television to get additional national broadcasts,” and he firmly believes that the Bengals are one of those teams.
With key players like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins signing long-term contracts, their appeal on national television has only grown. North explained that the maximum number of prime-time games usually hovers around seven, factoring in travel logistics and fan experiences. As every team navigates the complex and ever-changing schedule, the Bengals’ recent performances make them a prime candidate for additional exposure.
As the NFL schedule is crafted, it’s clear that the Bengals have the potential to play in various exciting matchups. There are already discussions about possible games in Dublin or even a matchup against the Miami Dolphins in Madrid. While specific details are still being finalized, North pointed out that the Bengals could easily be contenders for playing on international soil.
Additionally, there’s a strong possibility that Cincinnati could also feature on Turkey Day. The execution of holiday games will depend largely on how the rotation aligns with the AFC North rivalries, particularly the highly-anticipated clashes against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Every decision in the scheduling process is influenced by the competitive nature of the league and the favorable matchups that create exciting football. Given their track record, the Bengals are likely to prove to be a significant draw in the upcoming season. With a thrilling mix of challenges and opportunities ahead, the Bengals’ 2025 campaign is set to engage fans both at home and on a national level.
