The Cincinnati Bengals' 2026 schedule is finally here, and it's packed with must-watch matchups. Whether you're a die-hard Who Dey fan or just love great football, these five games are already circled on our calendars.
1. Week 1: vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
There's nothing like the season opener. Optimism is sky-high, and we finally get to see this Bengals team in action. While the Bucs aren't a classic rival, every Bengals fan knows Baker Mayfield well. After being pushed out by Cleveland following the Deshaun Watson trade, Mayfield has found new life in Tampa Bay. This opener sets the tone for the entire season.
2. International Game: vs. Atlanta Falcons (Madrid, Spain)
This could easily be the No. 1 game. It's been ages since Cincinnati played outside the U.S.—their last two trips were to England, resulting in a tie with Washington in 2016 and a loss to the Rams in 2019. But back then, they didn't have Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase as the faces of the NFL. Now, they get to showcase their explosive offense to Spain. Plus, they'll face off against former safety Jessie Bates, now with the Falcons.
3. Week 10: at Pittsburgh Steelers (Sunday Night Football)
The second Bengals-Steelers showdown of the season lands in primetime on Sunday Night Football. AFC North battles always feel more intense as the season hits its midpoint, and this one will carry serious playoff implications. Expect hard hits, high emotion, and a raucous atmosphere in Pittsburgh.
4. Week 12: vs. Kansas City Chiefs
This has become an unofficial rivalry. The Bengals and Chiefs have delivered close, thrilling games, including two AFC Championship matchups. While it's been a while since those meetings carried such high stakes, a healthy Patrick Mahomes vs. Joe Burrow showdown is always must-see TV. And for the first time since 2022, this game will be in Cincinnati—expect Paul Brown Stadium to be electric.
5. Week 17: vs. Baltimore Ravens (Holiday Game)
Like last season, the Bengals and Ravens meet on a holiday—but this time, IT'S IN CINCINNATI. Yes, we're shouting that. For four straight seasons, their primetime games have been in Baltimore, a scheduling quirk that frustrated Bengals fans. Finally, the home crowd gets to host this critical AFC North clash. It could very well decide the division title.