CINCINNATI — Bengals fans believe this is their year. If not to win the Super Bowl, then to at least win a playoff game for the first time in more than three decades.
Sure, it hasn’t been easy dealing with the ups and downs of the 31-year playoff victory drought. But it’s those challenges that make the good years that much sweeter.
No one knows this more than Bengal Jim — a Cincinnati Bengals Super Fan who has been to every home game since 1993.
“We [have] been to all 17 games this year, home and away,” Jim said. “Hopefully we can keep that streak going all the way to the Super Bowl.”
Through the years, Jim has seen good Bengals teams, and some not so good. But his pride and passion for the team has never wavered.
“My city, my team,” he said. “Good or bad, we’re going to be there regardless. There was a lot of bad in the 90s. But my passion at 11 years old is the same then as it is today.”
Jim is the 2021 Bengals Fan of the Year, a designation earned for his dedication, hosting popular tailgate parties featuring Bengals legends to pump up the fans on game days.
“I’m just so humbled to represent Who Dey Nation,” Jim said. “There are just so many great fans, I just can’t believe I’m representing Who Dey Nation. Ruler of the jungle at the Kansas City game was just amazing, and we’re going to the Super Bowl. My wife and I are going to the Super Bowl this year as well.”
Another reward is a home playoff game against the Las Vegas Raiders, a team which some say has cursed the Bengals franchise thanks to an injury to legendary running back Bo Jackson.
“We have not won a playoff game in 31 years,” he said. “I personally do believe in the Curse of Bo Jackson. But I know the only way to break a curse, is to break it where it happened, against who it happened against. We just so happen to have those Raiders here in town this Saturday, so we’re breaking the curse this week.”
Superstition aside, this Bengals team is for real — led by former Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow and an electric offense — The Bengals are looking for its first playoff win in 31 years. Breaking the so-called Bo Jackson Curse could heal the hearts of so many who love the Bengals.
“It’s time, it’s time,” he said. “When we get this win this Saturday, just watch this fan base — it’s going to be crazy.”
Cincinnati hosts the Las Vegas Raiders on Saturday.