50 Facts About Cincinnati Bengals

Establishment and Early Years

The Cincinnati Bengals have a storied history that dates back to their founding in the late 1960s. Let's dive into some key moments from their early years.

1. The Cincinnati Bengals were established on May 23, 1967, when a group led by Paul Brown received franchise approval from the American Football League (AFL).

2. The team began play in the 1968 season, marking their first year in professional football. Their inaugural game was a 29-13 loss to the San Diego Chargers on September 6, 1968.

3. The Bengals secured their first regular-season win with a 24-10 victory over the Denver Broncos on September 15, 1968.

4. The first pass reception in Bengals history was caught by running back Tom Smiley from quarterback Dewey Warren on the second play of the team's inaugural game.

5. The first regular-season touchdown for the Bengals was scored by running back Paul Robinson with a 2-yard run against the San Diego Chargers on September 6, 1968.

Milestones and Achievements

Throughout their history, the Bengals have achieved several significant milestones that have shaped their legacy.

6. The Bengals achieved their first winning season in 1970 with an 8-6-0 record.

7. The team made their first playoff appearance in 1970 with a 17-0 loss to the Baltimore Colts on December 26, 1970.

8. The Bengals' first Super Bowl appearance was in Super Bowl XVI on January 24, 1982, where they lost to the San Francisco 49ers 26-21.

9. Paul Robinson was the first Bengals player to rush for 100 yards in a game, achieving 159 yards against the Oakland Raiders on October 27, 1968.

10. Paul Robinson also became the first Bengals player to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season, accumulating 1,023 yards in 1968.

Record-Setting Performances

The Bengals have seen some incredible individual performances that have set franchise records.

11. Ken Anderson set the franchise record for most passing yards in a single game with 447 yards against the Houston Oilers on November 17, 1975.

12. Paul Robinson was the first Bengals player to be selected to an All-AFL team in 1968.

13. Anthony Muñoz, a legendary left tackle, was the first long-time Bengal elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

14. Corey Dillon holds the record for most career rushing yards with 8,061 yards from 1997 to 2003.

15. Ken Anderson is the franchise leader in career passing yards with 32,838 yards from 1971 to 1986.

Super Bowl Appearances and Championships

Despite their ups and downs, the Bengals have made notable appearances in the NFL's biggest game.

16. The Bengals have played in three Super Bowls: XVI in 1982, XXIII in 1989, and LVII in 2023. They won the AFC championships in 1981, 1988, and 2021.

17. The Bengals have won several division championships, including the AFC Central in 1970, 1973, 1981, 1988, and 1990, and the AFC North in 2005, 2009, 2013, 2015, 2021, and 2022.

18. Despite their rich history, the Bengals have yet to win a Super Bowl championship. They have appeared in three Super Bowls: XVI in 1982, XXIII in 1989, and LVII in 2023. Each appearance has been marked by close games and heartbreaking losses.

19. The Bengals have won three AFC championships: in 1981, 1988, and 2021. However, they have not yet secured a Super Bowl championship.

20. One of the most memorable moments in Bengals history is the 1988 season, where they tied the Buffalo Bills for the best record in the AFC with a 12-4 record. They went on to defeat the Bills in the AFC championship game but lost to the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XXIII.

Home Stadiums and Fan Base

The Bengals' home stadiums and passionate fan base have played a crucial role in their identity.

21. The Bengals have played their home games at several stadiums, including Riverfront Stadium from 1970 to 2000 and Paul Brown Stadium from 2000 to present. They currently play at Paycor Stadium, which was previously known as Paul Brown Stadium.

22. The Bengals are known for their iconic orange and black uniforms. Their fight song is "The Bengals Growl," and their mascot is the Bengal tiger, affectionately known as "Who Dey".

23. The Bengals have a passionate fan base known as "Who Dey Nation." This dedicated group of fans supports the team through thick and thin, creating an electric atmosphere at home games.

24. The Bengals have played a significant role in Cincinnati’s sports culture. They have been an integral part of the city’s identity and have contributed to its rich sporting heritage.

25. The Bengals are deeply involved in the Cincinnati community. They have various initiatives aimed at supporting local youth, promoting health and wellness, and fostering a sense of community pride.

Notable Players and Coaches

The Bengals have been home to several legendary players and coaches who have left a lasting impact on the franchise.

26. The Bengals have had several notable head coaches, including Paul Brown, Sam Wyche, and Zac Taylor. Paul Brown coached the team from its inception to 1975, while Sam Wyche led the team from 1984 to 1992.

27. Anthony Muñoz is a legendary left tackle who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

28. Boomer Esiason led the team to several playoff appearances in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

29. Chad Johnson, also known as "Ochocinco," was a prolific wide receiver who played for the Bengals from 2001 to 2010.

30. Joe Burrow, the current quarterback, was drafted first overall in the 2020 NFL draft and led the team to a division title and a Super Bowl appearance in 2021.

Challenges and Resurgence

The Bengals have faced numerous challenges but have shown resilience and determination in recent years.

31. The early Bengals faced significant struggles, including a lackluster performance in the 1930s. The team was suspended in 1934 for not paying league dues and holds the record for the two lowest officially recognized season scoring totals in NFL history.

32. The 1990s and early 2000s were particularly difficult, with the team experiencing a 14-year postseason drought and being referred to as "The Bungles" due to their poor performance.

33. Despite these challenges, the Bengals have shown resilience and determination. The team has experienced a revival and resurgence in recent years, marked by the arrival of Joe Burrow and other talented players.

34. Joe Burrow has faced significant injuries during his career, including a season-ending knee injury in his rookie season. Despite these setbacks, he has continued to lead the team with determination and resilience.

35. Ja’Marr Chase, a rookie wide receiver, had a sensational performance in 2021. He played alongside Joe Burrow and helped the team win 10 games and a division title, marking a significant contribution to the team’s success.

Ownership and Management

The Bengals' ownership and management have played a crucial role in shaping the team's direction and success.

36. The Bengals are owned by the Brown family, with Mike Brown serving as the president and owner. Duke Tobin is the general manager, although he is often referred to incorrectly as the team's general manager.

37. Mike Brown, the owner, has been instrumental in maintaining the team’s legacy. He has overseen the team’s operations and has been committed to building a strong and competitive franchise.

38. Duke Tobin, the general manager, has played a crucial role in shaping the team’s roster. He has been instrumental in drafting talented players like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, contributing to the team’s recent success.

39. Zac Taylor, the current head coach, has led the team with a strong vision and leadership. He has been instrumental in the team’s resurgence and has helped to build a cohesive unit on and off the field.

40. Paul Brown, the founder and first head coach of the Bengals, is a legendary figure in the NFL. He coached the team from its inception to 1975 and is credited with building the franchise from scratch.

Memorable Moments and Legacy

The Bengals have had numerous memorable moments that have left a lasting impact on the franchise and its fans.

41. Corey Dillon, a Pro Bowl running back, played for the Bengals from 1997 to 2003. During his tenure, he set the franchise record for most career rushing yards with 8,061 yards.

42. Ken Anderson, the franchise leader in career passing yards, played for the Bengals from 1971 to 1986. He set numerous franchise records and led the team to several playoff appearances during his career.

43. Chad Johnson, also known as "Ochocinco," played for the Bengals from 2001 to 2010. He was a prolific wide receiver who set the franchise record for most career receptions with 751 receptions.

44. Joe Burrow, the current quarterback, was drafted first overall in the 2020 NFL draft. He led the team to a division title and a Super Bowl appearance in 2021, marking a significant turning point in the franchise’s history.

45. In 2023, the Bengals appeared in Super Bowl LVII, where they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs. This appearance marked a significant milestone in the franchise’s history and highlighted the team’s continued growth and competitiveness.

46. The Bengals have fierce rivalries with several teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens, and Cleveland Browns. These rivalries add to the excitement and intensity of their games.

47. The Bengals are known for their strong community outreach programs. They have various initiatives aimed at supporting local youth and promoting health and wellness in the Cincinnati area.

48. The Bengals have left an indelible mark on professional football. Their rich history, passionate fan base, and commitment to community outreach have made them a beloved and integral part of Cincinnati’s sports culture.

49. The Bengals have had several historical names, including the 1937 Cincinnati Bengals. This team was named after a stove in Josephine Pennington’s kitchen and played in the American Professional Football Association (APFA).

50. The Bengals' legacy and impact on the NFL are undeniable. From their early struggles to their recent resurgence, the team has shown resilience, determination, and a commitment to excellence that continues to inspire their fans and the city of Cincinnati.

The Bengals' Legacy

The Cincinnati Bengals have carved out a unique spot in NFL history. From their establishment in 1967 to their recent resurgence, they've had their share of ups and downs. Key moments like their first Super Bowl appearance in 1982 and the rise of Joe Burrow highlight their journey. Iconic players such as Anthony Muñoz, Boomer Esiason, and Chad Johnson have left lasting impacts. Despite challenges, including a 14-year postseason drought, the team has shown resilience. Their passionate fan base, known as "Who Dey Nation," continues to support them through thick and thin. With a strong community presence and a commitment to excellence, the Bengals remain a beloved part of Cincinnati's sports culture. As they strive for that elusive Super Bowl win, the Bengals' story is far from over. Their legacy continues to grow, capturing the hearts of fans everywhere.