Huzzah! The regular season is finally upon us! If you remember, back in late April/early May, we predicted the 2017 season win/loss record. Well, we’re back at it with an updated version. Back then, we predicted a 9-7 finish for the Cincinnati Bengals, but after having seen the rookies and free agents mesh with the team, we have a different view on things. Not much different, but different enough to warrant a 10-6 season and make the playoffs as a wild card.

Back then, we predicted a 9-7 finish for the Cincinnati Bengals, but after having seen the rookies and free agents mesh with the team, we have a different view on things. Not much different, but different enough to warrant a 10-6 season and make the playoffs as a wild card.

Luckily for the Bengals, they have a fairly easy schedule. They play the AFC South as well as the NFC North and they play against the Browns twice. That’s 10 games won right there (just kidding of course). To be fair, the Houston Texans and Green Bay Packers are going to be tough games, but apart from those two, the rest of the games against the AFC South and NFC North are winnable.

With that said, here’s a game-by-game breakdown of the 2017 season.

Week 1: Baltimore Ravens

Win 24-17: This is a tough matchup given it’s a divisional game. However, Cincinnati has owned the series against the Ravens recently, going 7-3 since 2012. It’s their first home opener since 2009 and they’ll be motivated to get the win.

Week 2: Houston Texans

Win 17-14: The Bengals surprise the pundits and snap off a two-game winning streak. With no legit quarterback and the loss of cornerback A.J. Bouye, the Texans will have a hard time winning many games. Watch for A.J. Green and company, they may just blow past this projected score.

Week 3: at Green Bay Packers

Loss 24-27: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers and his spirited play will carry the Packers to a win. The Bengals have the chance to put up points against a softer Green Bay defense, but Rodgers at Lambeau Field will be too much for the Cincinnati defense to handle.

Week 4: at Cleveland Browns

Win 21-17: This could easily turn into a trap game because the Browns will be better this season with their revamped offensive line. However, Cincinnati is still ahead of the Browns when it comes to talent and should at least eke by with a victory as long as they aren’t looking to the next game already.