Off The Bench is BACK!

The Cincinnati Bengals face a daunting 2025 NFL schedule, with seven games against 2024 playoff teams, including tough road matchups against the Vikings, Broncos, Packers, Ravens, and Bills. A particularly brutal stretch from Weeks 3-7 pits them against Minnesota, Denver, Detroit, Green Bay, and Pittsburgh, with three road games. Later, Weeks 13-16 include back-to-back Ravens games sandwiching a trip to Buffalo, testing their mettle in the AFC North gauntlet. With a 9-8 record in 2024 and no playoff appearance, navigating this schedule is critical for Joe Burrow and company to reclaim contender status. Their defense, which showed promise in a 17-16 Week 1 win over Cleveland, must hold up against elite offenses to avoid another postseason miss.

Beating the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 2 at home is pivotal. After a shaky offensive showing (141 passing yards), the Bengals need Burrow to sync with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins against a Jaguars defense that struggled against the run in Week 1. A win improves their early record to 2-0, crucial for momentum before their brutal midseason stretch. It also sets a tone against a non-playoff opponent, avoiding the slow starts that have plagued Cincinnati (1-7 in Weeks 1-2 since 2019). Losing could amplify doubts about their offensive line and run game, risking a slide against tougher foes.

On September 9, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds secured a crucial 4-2 victory over the San Diego Padres at Petco Park, keeping their NL wild card hopes alive. Zack Littell pitched effectively, while the Reds' offense erupted for three home runs, including a clutch two-run shot by Tyler Stephenson in the ninth to seal the win. TJ Friedl and Austin Hays also went deep, powering Cincinnati to a 73-72 record, two games behind the Padres for the final wild card spot. Despite a strong outing from Padres’ starter Michael King, Robert Suarez’s ninth-inning collapse cost San Diego, now 79-66.

Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap).

Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock).

Off The Bench is BACK!

In a gritty 17-16 victory over the Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals leaned heavily on their defense to secure their first Week 1 win since 2021, despite a sluggish offensive showing. Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart, the Bengals' first-round pick, made an immediate impact in his NFL debut, showcasing the athleticism that justified his high draft stock. Stewart helped generate a crucial red-zone sack by converging on Browns quarterback Joe Flacco alongside Trey Hendrickson, collapsing the pocket on a third-down play late in the fourth quarter to seal the win. His poise under pressure earned high praise, with Pro Football Focus awarding him a strong rookie grade for his disruptive presence, including a batted pass (later nullified by a flag). After overcoming a contentious holdout and fan skepticism during training camp—where he even accidentally clipped Burrow in practice—Stewart's performance flipped the narrative, proving his value on the edge.

Quarterback Joe Burrow, returning from injury concerns, struggled mightily, completing just 14 of 23 passes for a career-low 113 yards and one touchdown. The offense managed only 141 total yards, with a dismal seven yards in the second half, marred by three-and-outs and early-season rust typical of Zac Taylor's teams. Yet Burrow remained optimistic postgame, noting, "We found a way to win. We didn’t win any of these games last year, and so usually when you can win a game like this, that's a recipe for success." His leadership as a team captain alongside Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins underscored the Bengals' resilience.

Head coach Zac Taylor, entering his seventh season with a historically poor 1-11 record in the first two weeks, celebrated the disciplined effort. "I’m proud of them. The best outcome of this game is 1-0. Forget about the stats," Taylor said, crediting new defensive coordinator Al Golden's unit for limiting Flacco to two interceptions and holding Cleveland to 16 points. Taylor highlighted the rookies' calmness, including Stewart, in a game that tested the team's depth amid injuries. This ugly win signals potential growth, blending Burrow's grit, Stewart's promise, and Taylor's steady hand for a playoff push.

In a heartbreaker at Petco Park, the Cincinnati Reds fell 4-3 to the San Diego Padres in 10 innings on September 8, 2025, dealing a blow to their fading wild-card hopes. The Reds jumped to a 3-0 lead against Yu Darvish, powered by TJ Friedl's leadoff homer, Elly De La Cruz's RBI single, and Austin Hays' solo shot. Starter Nick Lodolo delivered a strong outing, but Jackson Merrill's two-run triple in the sixth tied it.

The game stayed knotted until the 10th, where reliever Nick Martinez's throwing error on a bunt advanced automatic runner Jake Cronenworth to third. Fernando Tatis Jr. then lofted a sacrifice fly for the walk-off win, his seventh of the season. The loss drops Cincinnati to 72-72, while San Diego (79-65) clings to the NL's second wild-card spot, three games ahead of the Mets.

Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap).

Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock).

Off the Bench Is Going on Haitus. We will return for the Football Season and be back better than ever!

On June 9, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds triumphed over the Cleveland Guardians with a 7-4 victory at Progressive Field, securing the Ohio Cup for the first time since 2014. The Reds, led by manager Terry Francona, unleashed an offensive barrage, amassing 16 hits. Jake Fraley shone with three hits, including a home run, while TJ Friedl also went yard, boosting the team's morale. Wade Miley delivered a solid pitching performance, and Pagan sealed the win with a strong close. This victory marked the Reds' fourth straight win, improving their record to 34-33 and pushing them above .500 for the first time since May 19. The Ohio Cup, a symbol of Buckeye State bragging rights, was clinched after the Reds dominated the season series, including a sweep of the Guardians earlier in May. Fans celebrated the return of the trophy to Cincinnati, with social media buzzing about the team’s momentum. Friedl humorously noted the cup could hold “two and a half 12-ounce Coors Lights,” adding a lighthearted touch to the achievement. This win signals the Reds’ growing confidence as they aim to close the 6.5-game gap behind the NL Central-leading Cubs. On June 9, 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals released linebacker Germaine Pratt, a team captain and their 2024 leading tackler with 143 tackles. The move, reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, saves $5.6-$5.9 million in 2025 cap space but incurs $2.3 million in dead money. Pratt, a 2019 third-round pick, requested a trade in February after defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s departure, signaling discontent with the new scheme under Al Golden. His release, following a career-high season with two interceptions and two forced fumbles, weakens a defense already criticized for allowing 30+ points against top offenses in 2024. The Bengals aim to replace Pratt with younger talent, including second-round pick Demetrius Knight Jr. and fourth-rounder Barrett Carter, alongside free agent Oren Burks. However, transitioning to rookies risks inexperience at a critical position, potentially exacerbating defensive struggles. Fans on X expressed dismay, fearing a further decline in defensive performance, while some see Pratt landing with Anarumo’s Indianapolis Colts. The Bengals’ shift to youth and speed, as noted by director Duke Tobin, prioritizes long-term flexibility but may hinder immediate competitiveness in a tough AFC North.

The Cincinnati Reds, now 33-33, roared back to .500 with a commanding three-game sweep over the Arizona Diamondbacks at Great American Ball Park, showcasing offensive firepower and resilient pitching. The series, concluding on June 8, 2025, saw the Reds overcome early deficits and weather challenges, including rain delays, to secure a 4-2 victory in the finale. Christian Encarnacion-Strand, fresh off the injured list, was a standout, going 7-for-13 with six RBIs, including a solo homer in the fifth inning of the final game. Jose Trevino tied the game with another solo shot, and Matt McLain delivered the decisive blow—a two-run homer in the seventh off Arizona’s Zac Gallen, who allowed four runs over 6 2/3 innings. Brady Singer kept the Reds competitive, pitching five innings and allowing two runs despite taking a comebacker to his arm. Taylor Rogers earned the win with two scoreless relief innings, and Tony Santillan sealed the sweep with his second save. The Reds’ earlier wins included a 4-3, 10-inning thriller and a 13-1 rout, highlighting their offensive depth and bullpen strength. . Now, the Reds head to Progressive Field for a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians (34-30), starting today, June 9, 2025. This matchup follows Cincinnati’s sweep of Cleveland in May, adding intensity to the battle for the Ohio Cup. The Reds aim to maintain momentum against a Guardians team chasing the AL Central-leading Detroit Tigers. Cincinnati’s probable starters are Wade Miley (0-0, 18.00 ERA), Andrew Abbott (5-1, 2.18 ERA), and Nick Lodolo (4-4, 3.21 ERA), facing Cleveland’s Luis Ortiz (3-6, 4.02 ERA), Slade Cecconi (1-2, 4.87 ERA), and Logan Allen (3-4, 4.42 ERA). Miley’s return from injury makes his start a question mark, but Abbott’s consistency and Lodolo’s solid outings provide stability. Cleveland’s José Ramírez, with 12 homers, remains a threat, though their recent 5-3 loss to Houston exposed vulnerabilities. The Reds, buoyed by their sweep, must navigate Cleveland’s strong 17-13 home record. One win secures the Ohio Cup, but Cincinnati’s focus is on climbing the NL Central standings. Expect a competitive series with the Reds’ bats aiming to exploit Cleveland’s pitching.

Last night, the Indiana Pacers stunned the basketball world with a thrilling 111-110 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals. Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning shot capped a dramatic 15-point fourth-quarter comeback, marking Indiana’s fifth such rally this postseason. Pascal Siakam led with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Obi Toppin’s 17 points off the bench sparked the upset. The Pacers’ relentless pace and clutch play set the tone for a competitive series, proving their underdog status is no fluke. Switching to baseball, the Cincinnati Reds face a critical weekend series against the Chicago Cubs at Great American Ball Park. The Reds, hovering around .500, are fighting to stay in the NL Central race. After a rollercoaster May, where they split series against strong teams like the Dodgers and Braves, Cincinnati needs consistency. Their offense, led by Elly De La Cruz’s speed and Jonathan India’s on-base skills, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggles with runners in scoring position, batting just .240 in those spots this season. The Cubs, sitting third in the division, are a tough matchup. Their pitching staff, anchored by Shota Imanaga (2.95 ERA), has been stingy, allowing the third-fewest runs in the NL. Chicago’s lineup, powered by Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki, thrives on exploiting mistakes, making Cincinnati’s pitching staff—prone to wildness—vulnerable. Reds starter Hunter Greene (3.45 ERA) takes the mound Friday, aiming to set the tone with his high-90s fastball. However, his command issues (4.1 BB/9) could be costly against the disciplined Cubs. Saturday’s matchup features Nick Lodolo, whose breakout 2025 (3.12 ERA, 9.5 K/9) has been a bright spot for Cincinnati. He’ll face Chicago’s Justin Steele, a lefty who’s limited opponents to a .220 average. The Reds must capitalize early, as the Cubs’ bullpen ranks among the league’s best. Sunday’s finale pits Andrew Abbott against Kyle Hendricks, where Cincinnati’s ability to work counts could decide the game. The Reds need at least two wins to gain ground in the division. De La Cruz’s base-stealing (35 SB) and Spencer Steer’s power (15 HR) will be key. Defensively, Cincinnati must tighten up after recent errors cost them games. Expect a high-energy series with playoff implications, as both teams vie for postseason

On June 4, 2025, the Milwaukee Brewers dominated the Cincinnati Reds with a 9-1 victory at Great American Ball Park, securing their 12th consecutive series win against the Reds. The game, which decided the three-game series, showcased Milwaukee’s offensive firepower and pitching depth, while Cincinnati struggled to find rhythm against a relentless Brewers squad. The Brewers struck early and often, with their bats erupting against Reds starter Andrew Abbott, who had been stellar in May with a 0.55 ERA. Abbott, however, faltered, allowing a season-high five runs. In the third inning, Brice Turang doubled and scored on Andruw Monasterio’s single, giving Milwaukee a 1-0 lead. The fifth inning saw Jackson Chourio’s two-run homer, his 10th of the season, pushing the score to 3-0. Daz Cameron added a two-run shot in the sixth, his first homer since July 2024, further widening the gap. The Brewers capped their offensive onslaught in the ninth with Isaac Collins’ three-run homer off Wade Miley, sealing the 9-1 rout. Milwaukee’s pitching was equally impressive. DL Hall opened, tossing three innings and allowing just one hit, notably escaping a bases-loaded jam in the third by inducing a lineout and groundout. Quinn Priester earned the win, allowing one run over five innings. The Brewers’ staff stifled Cincinnati’s offense, which managed only one run despite loading the bases early, highlighting their inability to capitalize on opportunities. For the Reds, the loss underscored ongoing struggles against their NL Central rivals. Cincinnati’s lone run came late, but their offense fizzled after the third, continuing a trend of failing to score consistently against Milwaukee. The Reds’ defense and baserunning also faltered, with miscues like a strikeout-throwout double play involving catcher Jose Trevino, as noted in posts on X. Fans expressed frustration, with one X user lamenting the Reds’ predictable offensive woes. This game solidified Milwaukee’s dominance over Cincinnati, with a 42-16 record in their last 58 meetings. The Brewers’ balanced attack—combining timely hitting, power, and solid pitching—overwhelmed a Reds team fighting for NL Wild Card contention. As Milwaukee looks ahead to a series against the Padres, the Reds, now without Hunter Greene due to injury, face an uphill battle to regroup against the Diamondbacks.

On June 3, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds snapped the Milwaukee Brewers' eight-game winning streak with a 4-2 victory at Great American Ball Park, delivering a much-needed boost to their season. The Reds, struggling with a 29-32 record and fourth place in the NL Central, showcased resilience against a red-hot Brewers team that had dominated them in recent matchups, winning 18 of their last 22 games at Cincinnati. This win, highlighted by strong pitching and timely hitting, offered a glimmer of hope for a Reds squad looking to turn their season around under manager Terry Francona. The game’s turning point came early with Reds ace Hunter Greene on the mound. Despite concerns about his right groin, which required an MRI post-game, Greene battled through five innings, allowing just two runs. His performance was gritty, throwing 114 pitches— the most by any MLB pitcher this year— and striking out key Brewers hitters. However, discomfort in the fifth inning forced his early exit, leaving the bullpen to preserve the lead. The Reds’ relievers, often a weak point, stepped up, with the bullpen delivering dominant frames to secure the win. Offensively, the Reds struck early, jumping to a 2-0 lead in the first inning. While their bats went quiet afterward, struggling to capitalize on opportunities—a recurring issue this season—they added crucial runs late to seal the game. Santiago Espinal and TJ Friedl contributed key hits, while Elly De La Cruz, despite personal grief following his sister’s passing, showed heart by playing and adding to the team’s effort. The Reds’ offense, described as “feast or famine” in 2025, leaned on just enough production to outlast Milwaukee’s Christian Yelich, who homered but couldn’t spark a comeback. This victory was more than a single game for Cincinnati. It halted a slide that saw them lose momentum after a promising April. With injuries piling up—outfielder Austin Hays landed on the injured list with a foot contusion—and trade deadline decisions looming, the Reds needed a statement win. While Greene’s health remains a concern, the team’s ability to rally against a division rival suggests potential for a second-half surge. For Reds fans, last night’s win was a reminder of the team’s talent and tenacity, even in a challenging season.