Commanders vs. Bengals: A Comprehensive Guide to the Rivalry

Introduction

The Commanders vs. Bengals rivalry is one of the most intense and long-standing in the NFL. The two teams have met 71 times in the regular season and playoffs, with the Commanders holding a slight edge with a 35-34-1 record. The rivalry has been marked by close games, controversial moments, and a passionate fan base on both sides.

History of the Rivalry

The rivalry between the Commanders and Bengals dates back to 1970, when both teams were members of the American Football League (AFL). The first meeting between the two teams was a 24-17 Commanders victory in September 1970.

The rivalry quickly became heated, as the two teams were often competing for the same playoff spot. In the 1970s, the Bengals won two of the three playoff meetings between the two teams, including a 21-0 shutout in the 1972 AFC Championship Game.

The rivalry continued to be intense in the 1980s, with the Commanders winning three of the four playoff meetings between the two teams. The most memorable of these games was the 1982 AFC Championship Game, which the Commanders won 21-14 on a last-second field goal.

The rivalry has continued to be close in the 21st century. The Commanders and Bengals have met in the playoffs four times since 2000, with the Bengals winning two of those meetings.

Key Moments in the Rivalry

• 1972 AFC Championship Game: The Bengals shut out the Commanders 21-0 to win their first AFC championship.
• 1982 AFC Championship Game: The Commanders won 21-14 on a last-second field goal to advance to the Super Bowl.
• 2005 Wild Card Round: The Bengals defeated the Commanders 27-13 in a game that featured a controversial pass interference call against the Commanders.
• 2015 Wild Card Round: The Commanders defeated the Bengals 31-20 in a game that featured a record-setting performance from running back Adrian Peterson.

Current State of the Rivalry

The Commanders and Bengals are both coming off of disappointing seasons in 2022. The Commanders finished 7-8, while the Bengals finished 5-12.

However, both teams have high hopes for 2023. The Commanders have a new head coach in Ron Rivera and a number of talented players, including quarterback Carson Wentz and wide receiver Terry McLaurin. The Bengals have a young and talented team led by quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase.

The Commanders and Bengals are scheduled to meet twice in 2023, with the first meeting taking place in Cincinnati on November 5th and the second meeting taking place in Washington on December 24th.

Why the Rivalry Matters

The Commanders vs. Bengals rivalry is important for a number of reasons. First, it is one of the most intense and long-standing rivalries in the NFL. Second, the two teams are often competing for the same playoff spot, which makes their games even more meaningful. Finally, the rivalry has a passionate fan base on both sides, which makes the games even more exciting.

Benefits of the Rivalry

The Commanders vs. Bengals rivalry has a number of benefits for both teams and the NFL. First, it helps to sell tickets and generate revenue for both teams. Second, it helps to create excitement and buzz for the NFL. Third, it helps to create a sense of community among fans of both teams.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes that fans of both teams should avoid when discussing the rivalry. First, avoid making personal attacks on players or fans of the other team. Second, avoid making generalizations about the other team or its fans. Third, avoid using offensive or derogatory language.

Conclusion

The Commanders vs. Bengals rivalry is one of the most intense and long-standing in the NFL. The two teams have met 71 times in the regular season and playoffs, with the Commanders holding a slight edge with a 35-34-1 record. The rivalry has been marked by close games, controversial moments, and a passionate fan base on both sides.

Here is a table summarizing the key moments in the rivalry:

Here is a table comparing the pros and cons of the rivalry:

Here is a table listing some common mistakes to avoid when discussing the rivalry: