Podcasts about off the bench

Nick Kirby and Mike Hart break down 41 potential MLB trade candidates this offseason and evaluate each player's possible fit or lack of fit with the Cincinnati Reds. From superstar trade targets to under-the-radar options, Nick and Mike analyze which players could realistically help the Reds in 2025 and beyond.    Players discussed include Adley Rutschman, Ryan Jeffers, Yandy Díaz, Ryan Mountcastle, Jeff McNeil, Jazz Chisholm, Brandon Lowe, Ozzie Albies, Brendan Donovan, Nolan Arenado, Alec Bohm, Josh Jung, Anthony Volpe, Luis Robert Jr., Jarren Duran, Oneil Cruz, Taylor Ward, Steven Kwan, Lars Nootbaar, Jasson Domínguez, Nick Castellanos, Bryan Reynolds, Adolis García, Sonny Gray, Luis Severino, Sandy Alcantara, Mitch Keller, Jeffrey Springs, Freddy Peralta, Bailey Ober, MacKenzie Gore, Joe Ryan, Drew Rasmussen, Edward Cabrera, Carlos Estévez, Pete Fairbanks, Isaac Paredes, Brent Rooker, Matt Olson, Willson Contreras, and Brenton Doyle.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b22991kLAWs      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Bengals: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chatterbox-bengals-a-cincinnati-bengals-nfl-podcast/id1652732141  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr    DSC Commodities: https://deepsouthcommodities.com/  CALL OR TEXT 988 FOR HELP DAY OR NIGHT: https://mantherapy.org  

There are lots of Arsenal assets to pick from but the defensive double-up appears to be the most rewarding following their latest away win

Nick Kirby and Craig Sandlin grade and review Terry Francona's first season as Cincinnati Reds manager, breaking down the good, the bad, and the ugly from the 2025 Cincinnati Reds season. They discuss what went right, what went wrong, and what Francona and the Reds need to improve heading into the 2026 MLB season. Plus, updates on Cincinnati Reds prospects — including Cam Collier, Rhett Lowder, Alfredo Duno, and more — from the Arizona Fall League. Nick and Craig also react to Game 7 of the ALCS between the Seattle Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays, the Los Angeles Dodgers returning to the World Series, and how the looming MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) expiration after 2026 could impact the league.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8kMlZfQGb0      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Bengals: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chatterbox-bengals-a-cincinnati-bengals-nfl-podcast/id1652732141  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr    DSC Commodities: https://deepsouthcommodities.com/  CALL OR TEXT 988 FOR HELP DAY OR NIGHT: https://mantherapy.org  

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a clash of AFC North titans gone awry, the surging Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) invade Paycor Stadium to face a reeling Cincinnati Bengals squad (2-4) on Thursday Night Football. What was once a marquee rivalry now feels like a tale of two trajectories: Pittsburgh's three-game win streak has vaulted them to the division lead, while Cincinnati's four straight losses—capped by a 27-18 defeat to Green Bay—have sparked desperation. Joe Burrow's toe injury sidelining him until December forced a midseason pivot, trading for veteran Joe Flacco from Cleveland. The 40-year-old gunslinger debuted last week with 219 yards and two scores, injecting life into an offense dormant under Jake Browning. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, rides Aaron Rodgers' renaissance. The 41-year-old maestro boasts a career-best 105.4 passer rating through five games, with 10 touchdowns and just three picks, slicing defenses for 1,021 yards. His rapport with DK Metcalf has been lethal—Metcalf's four straight TD catches include a scorching 80-yarder—exploiting yards after catch like no other. The Steelers' ground game, turbocharged by Arthur Smith's "Jumbo" packages featuring 290-pound TE Darnell Washington, has averaged 4.4 yards per carry against Cincy's porous 28th-ranked run D. Cincinnati counters with firepower: Ja'Marr Chase erupted for a late TD last outing, and Flacco's familiarity with Pittsburgh—he's 11-11 lifetime against them—could neutralize Mike Tomlin's schemes. Yet injuries loom large: Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson (hip) is questionable, thinning their pass rush (just 3.7% sack rate sans him), while Steelers miss WR Calvin Austin III (shoulder) and S Miles Killebrew (knee). Betting odds tilt toward Pittsburgh as 5.5-point road favorites (O/U 44.5), with sharp money sniffing Bengals value at +225 ML. This gerontocratic QB duel—the third in NFL history pitting 40+ starters—promises fireworks under the lights. Expect Metcalf to feast (Over 70.5 receiving yards) and Pittsburgh's D to force turnovers (Cincy leads the league with 11 giveaways). Steelers pull away late in a 27-20 thriller, solidifying North supremacy. But don't sleep on Flacco's upset magic—after all, these helmets hide Bengal stripes. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsSteelers

Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Co-Hosts: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! On October 16, 2025, Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati will host a pivotal AFC North showdown as the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) invade the reeling Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) for Thursday Night Football. Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET, exclusively on Prime Video. With the Steelers riding a three-game win streak and eyeing sole possession of the division lead, this matchup pits a surging defense against a Bengals squad desperate to halt a brutal four-game skid. The narrative couldn't be more dramatic: a battle of grizzled quarterbacks. Pittsburgh's Aaron Rodgers, 41 and thriving in his one-year Black-and-Gold stint, has injected precision into an offense that's clicked since his offseason arrival. The Steelers' attack averages 22.7 points over its last three games, bolstered by a line allowing just nine sacks. Rodgers faces a Bengals defense ranked near the bottom in QB pressure and sacks, ripe for exploitation. Meanwhile, Cincinnati turns to 40-year-old Joe Flacco, freshly traded from Cleveland, after Joe Burrow's season-ending Grade 3 turf toe surgery. Flacco's debut flop—a 27-18 loss to Green Bay—exposed vulnerabilities, but with Ja'Marr Chase) and Tee Higgins, the passing game could spark. Pittsburgh's defense, a steel wall allowing 14.7 points per game lately, looms large. T.J. Watt (3.5 sacks) and Nick Herbig (4.5 sacks) terrorize from the edge, while Patrick Queen leads with 44 tackles. The Bengals' patchwork offensive line, plagued by injuries to guards Dylan Fairchild (knee) and Lucas Patrick (calf), will struggle to protect Flacco. Cincinnati's run game, led by Chase Brown, must grind to stay afloat. Historically, the Steelers dominate, leading 71-40 all-time and 3-2 in the last five, outscoring Cincinnati by 26 points in those tilts. They've covered in five of six recent meetings, fueling their -5.5 spread favoritism (O/U 42.5). Yet, the Bengals boast a 4-1 home record against AFC foes, hinting at upset potential. This rivalry, born in the 1970s merger madness, always delivers grit. Expect a low-scoring affair—Pittsburgh's five straight unders vs. Cincy scream caution. The Steelers' sharpness should prevail, but Flacco's veteran guile might force a nail-biter. In the end, Pittsburgh pulls away 24-17, extending Cincy's woes while solidifying divisional supremacy. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsSteelers

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! The Cincinnati Bengals' potential trade of star defensive end Trey Hendrickson has gained traction following recent comments from NFL insiders and former players. Hendrickson, a three-time Pro Bowler who led the team with 17.5 sacks in 2024, has been at the center of speculation amid contract disputes and the Bengals' underwhelming 2025 season. Dianna Russini of The Athletic first reported in March 2025 that the Bengals had granted Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, citing his desire for long-term security beyond his current deal, which runs through 2025 with a $15 million base salary.  She noted significant interest from teams like the Washington Commanders, with Cincinnati demanding "significant trade compensation" in return. By August, Russini updated that the Bengals were actively engaged in discussions for weeks, not just seeking draft picks but also targeting defensive players to bolster their roster. One source told her that an earlier spring trade might have yielded a higher draft pick, complicated by salary cap issues for suitors. This comes as the Bengals prioritize extensions for Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, potentially squeezing Hendrickson's negotiations. Adding fuel, former Bengals quarterback Boomer Esiason, on the October 13, 2025, episode of the "Up & Adams" show, urged the team to trade Hendrickson if he's healthy, emphasizing the need for draft capital to rebuild. "If he's healthy, I would trade him. If you could get some quality draft picks back, 'cause that's how they're gonna have to rebuild their team," Esiason said. His comments align with Cincinnati's struggles, including Joe Burrow's turf toe injury in September, which has derailed their playoff hopes and shifted focus to future assets. A Hendrickson trade could net a first-round pick or equivalent, given his elite pass-rushing skills (12.5 sacks through Week 6 in 2025). Potential suitors include contenders like the San Francisco 49ers (post-Nick Bosa injury) or Carolina Panthers. However, Bengals GM Duke Tobin has historically resisted midseason deals, preferring to retain core talent. With the November 4 trade deadline looming, Hendrickson's situation remains fluid, balancing his production against team finances and rebuild needs. If moved, it signals a pivot toward youth, but keeping him could stabilize a defense ranked 22nd in pressures. Either way, these insider takes highlight Cincinnati's crossroads. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! As the crisp October air sweeps through Lambeau Field, the Cincinnati Bengals (4-2) roll into Green Bay to face the Packers (5-1) in a Week 7 showdown that promises fireworks. This AFC-NFC crossover pits Joe Burrow's surgical precision against Jordan Love's rising star, with playoff implications simmering beneath the surface. For the Bengals, it's redemption time. After a heartbreaking 0-2 start marred by injuries, Burrow has engineered a three-game win streak, dissecting defenses with 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns. Tee Higgins is back, forming a lethal duo with Ja'Marr Chase, who leads the league in receiving yards. The ground game? Joe Mixon is a beast, averaging 5.2 yards per carry. Defensively, Lou Anarumo's unit has stiffened, holding opponents to under 20 points in their last three wins. But the secondary remains vulnerable—watch for Love to exploit that with his quick release. The Packers, meanwhile, are the NFL's hottest team, riding a five-game heater fueled by Love's poise and a balanced attack. He's thrown for 1,800 yards with just three picks, spreading the ball to Christian Watson's deep threats and Jayden Reed's slot magic. Aaron Jones is gashing runs at 4.8 yards per pop, while the O-line, anchored by David Bakhtiari's return, gives Love clean pockets. Green Bay's defense? Elite. Jaire Alexander locks down receivers, and Rashan Gary's pass rush has 12 sacks already. They feast on turnovers, forcing eight in their streak. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a stunning intra-division swap, the Cincinnati Bengals acquired veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns on October 7, 2025—the first trade between the AFC North rivals since the Browns' 1999 return. The deal cost Cincinnati a 2026 fifth-round pick, while netting them Flacco and a 2026 sixth-rounder from Detroit. This move comes amid a quarterback quandary: franchise star Joe Burrow has been sidelined since Week 2 with turf toe, projected to miss at least eight weeks, leaving the Bengals (2-3) mired in a three-game skid. Backup Jake Browning's tenure has been disastrous, with eight interceptions against six touchdowns, tanking an offense that ranks last in yards (228.6 per game) and fourth-worst in scoring (17.0 points). Weapons like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have been neutralized, as Browning's 64.5% completion rate and turnover woes have stifled Cincinnati's explosiveness. Coach Zac Taylor, noncommittal post a 37-24 loss to Detroit, signaled urgency ahead of Thursday's clash with Pittsburgh. Flacco, 40 and an 18-year vet, steps in as the presumptive starter, released backups Brett Rypien and Mike White to clear space. Why Flacco? His 2023 Comeback Player of the Year magic—leading the Browns to the playoffs—lingers, despite a rocky 2025 (1-3, 58.1% completion, 815 yards, 2 TDs, 6 INTs). Benchings for rookie Dillon Gabriel made him expendable in Cleveland, where Deshaun Watson's Achilles recovery looms. Flacco's AFC North savvy shines: 11 career wins over the Steelers, a Week 3 Browns victory versus Green Bay (Cincinnati's Week 6 foe). His under-center snaps could revive play-action, contrasting Taylor's shotgun-heavy scheme tailored for Burrow. Skeptics question Flacco's arm fading, but at a bargain price, it's low-risk salvation. A 5-4 stretch under Flacco could position the Bengals at 7-7 for Burrow's potential December return, vaulting them into the playoff mix in a muddled division (Steelers lead at 3-1). Chase tweeted excitement: "Old heads know how to win." If Flacco channels his Super Bowl grit, this trade could rewrite Cincinnati's season from farce to redemption. Otherwise, it's another Bengals heartbreak in a rivalry-rich North. Packers vs. Bengals: Week 6 PreviewThe Green Bay Packers (2-1-1) host the reeling Cincinnati Bengals (2-3) at Lambeau Field on Sunday, Oct. 12, at 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS). Coming off a Week 5 bye, Green Bay enters as a 14.5-point favorite, with the total at 46.5.  azcentral.com This Lambeau clash pits a rested Packers squad against a Bengals team desperate for stability after Joe Burrow's season-ending Grade 3 turf toe surgery.  espn.com Key Storylines: Cincinnati's offense has cratered without Burrow, ranking last in success rate (36.1%) and allowing the third-most passing yards (1,295).  sharpfootballanalysis.com Veteran Joe Flacco, acquired midweek from Cleveland, makes his Bengals debut, but faces a Packers secondary yielding just 205.8 passing yards per game (11th-fewest).  bengals.com Green Bay's Jordan Love, fresh off torching Dallas for 319 yards in a 40-40 tie, should exploit Cincy's porous pass defense (27th in pressure rate).  si.com RB Josh Jacobs (76.4 PFF grade) bolsters the run game, while rookie WR Matthew Golden adds explosiveness.  bengals.com Bengals WRs Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins could test CB Nate Hobbs (concussion protocol, limited).  acmepackingcompany.com Injuries: Bengals are decimated—Burrow out three months, S Geno Stone (calf on IR), G Cordell Volson (shoulder IR).  espn.com Packers: DT Devonte Wyatt (knee DNP), OT Anthony Belton (ankle DNP), G Aaron Banks (groin doubtful), TE Tucker Kraft (questionable), T Zach Tom (questionable).  packers.com WR Jayden Reed remains on IR (foot/collarbone).  Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a stunning intra-division swap, the Cincinnati Bengals acquired veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns on October 7, 2025—the first trade between the AFC North rivals since the Browns' 1999 return. The deal cost Cincinnati a 2026 fifth-round pick, while netting them Flacco and a 2026 sixth-rounder from Detroit. This move comes amid a quarterback quandary: franchise star Joe Burrow has been sidelined since Week 2 with turf toe, projected to miss at least eight weeks, leaving the Bengals (2-3) mired in a three-game skid. Backup Jake Browning's tenure has been disastrous, with eight interceptions against six touchdowns, tanking an offense that ranks last in yards (228.6 per game) and fourth-worst in scoring (17.0 points). Weapons like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have been neutralized, as Browning's 64.5% completion rate and turnover woes have stifled Cincinnati's explosiveness. Coach Zac Taylor, noncommittal post a 37-24 loss to Detroit, signaled urgency ahead of Thursday's clash with Pittsburgh. Flacco, 40 and an 18-year vet, steps in as the presumptive starter, released backups Brett Rypien and Mike White to clear space. Why Flacco? His 2023 Comeback Player of the Year magic—leading the Browns to the playoffs—lingers, despite a rocky 2025 (1-3, 58.1% completion, 815 yards, 2 TDs, 6 INTs). Benchings for rookie Dillon Gabriel made him expendable in Cleveland, where Deshaun Watson's Achilles recovery looms. Flacco's AFC North savvy shines: 11 career wins over the Steelers, a Week 3 Browns victory versus Green Bay (Cincinnati's Week 6 foe). His under-center snaps could revive play-action, contrasting Taylor's shotgun-heavy scheme tailored for Burrow. Skeptics question Flacco's arm fading, but at a bargain price, it's low-risk salvation. A 5-4 stretch under Flacco could position the Bengals at 7-7 for Burrow's potential December return, vaulting them into the playoff mix in a muddled division (Steelers lead at 3-1). Chase tweeted excitement: "Old heads know how to win." If Flacco channels his Super Bowl grit, this trade could rewrite Cincinnati's season from farce to redemption. Otherwise, it's another Bengals heartbreak in a rivalry-rich North. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! The Cincinnati Bengals' 2025 season, once brimming with Super Bowl whispers, has devolved into a sobering 2-3 skid, capped by a humiliating 37-24 home loss to the Detroit Lions on October 5. Jake Browning, thrust into the starting role after Joe Burrow's turf toe surgery sidelined the star QB for months, engineered a late rally with three fourth-quarter touchdown passes to Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. But it was too little, too late—Detroit's backfield duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery carved up the Bengals' defense for 14 combined scores, tying an NFL record and exposing Cincy's porous run D, which has surrendered 150+ yards in each of the last three defeats. Over the past trio of games, the Bengals have been outscored 113-37, their offense sputtering at a league-worst 17 points per game without Burrow's magic. Browning's eight picks this season scream turnover roulette, while the once-vaunted pass rush—led by Trey Hendrickson—has tallied just five sacks since Week 2. Fans, donning paper bags at Paycor Stadium, are left questioning Zac Taylor's schemes amid a franchise-record futility streak. Now, eyes turn to a daunting Week 6 road tilt against the Green Bay Packers on October 12 at Lambeau Field. Green Bay (2-1-1) enters post-bye, fresh and ferocious, with Jordan Love slinging eight TDs against one INT in four games. Their ground game, powered by Josh Jacobs' 1,300+ yards from a year ago, could feast on Cincy's leaky front. Oddsmakers peg the Pack as 14.5-point favorites, predicting a Bengals upset probability under 40%. Yet, in the shadow of Burrow's eventual return, this could be the grit-check that reignites Bengal Nation—or buries their playoff hopes deeper. Resilience or rout? Lambeau will tell. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Antoine Semenyo is having a season to remember and quickly becoming an FPL favourite ❤️⚽️

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a game that started as a nightmare and ended in futile desperation, the Cincinnati Bengals fell 37-24 to the Detroit Lions on October 5, 2025, at Paycor Stadium, extending their skid to three straight defeats. What began as a 28-3 halftime rout—fueled by Detroit's explosive backfield duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery tying an NFL record with their 14th combined touchdown—devolved into a fourth-quarter mirage for Bengals fans. Cincinnati, now 2-3, has been outscored 113-37 over this brutal stretch, a stark reminder of life without injured star Joe Burrow. Quarterback Jake Browning, filling in admirably during a 2023 late-season surge, looked utterly lost under center. He threw three interceptions—two deep in Bengals territory that gifted Detroit short-field touchdowns—before salvaging his stat line with 251 yards and three fourth-quarter scores to Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Those late strikes, including a 65-yard bomb to Chase, trimmed the deficit to 35-24 and sparked brief "Stripe the Jungle" chants amid boos that rained down after his third pick. But it was too little, too late; a failed onside kick and safety sealed the embarrassment. Browning now ranks second in the NFL with eight picks, his adjusted EPA per dropback a woeful -0.44, dead last among qualifiers. Head coach Zac Taylor shouldered blame for the slow starts but doubled down on faith in Browning, saying, "I believe Jake can win games for us." Yet, postgame whispers of accountability rang hollow: Taylor admitted hearing bench calls from the crowd, while Browning owned his "awful" play, deferring any changes to the staff. The leash? Shortening fast. With Burrow sidelined until at least December from toe surgery, rumors swirl of an upgrade. Analysts urge trading for a veteran like Russell Wilson or the benched Kirk Cousins to stem the bleeding—Brett Rypien, the roster's only other QB, boasts a 4-9 TD-INT ratio in limited action. Facing Green Bay next, then primetime tilts against the Jets and Steelers, Cincinnati's 2-3 perch in a wobbly AFC North (Ravens and Browns at 1-4) offers a lifeline. But sticking with Browning risks irrelevance; the front office must act, or this season crumbles before Burrow's return. The Bengals' Super Bowl window creaks open—don't slam it shut with indecision. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! The Cincinnati Bengals (2-2) host the Detroit Lions (3-1) at Paycor Stadium on Sunday, October 5, 2025, in a 4:25 p.m. ET FOX showdown—America's Game of the Week. With Joe Burrow sidelined by injury, backup Jake Browning steps up amid a Bengals offense averaging a league-worst 19.3 points and 205 yards per game. Last week's 3-point dud in Denver exposed their woes: just 159 total yards and nine first downs. Defensively, they're porous, allowing 30+ points in three of four contests. Ja'Marr Chase remains elite, but Cincy's 2-2 ATS mark as underdogs screams fragility. Home cooking offers slim hope—they score 31 at Paycor but concede 27. Detroit roars in on a three-game heater, leading the NFL with 34.2 points and 365 yards per game. Jared Goff's precision (9 TDs, 2 INTs) fuels a balanced attack, with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery gashing defenses (top-10 rush duo). New OC John Morton adds wrinkles to Dan Campbell's gritty scheme. The Lions' D, allowing 317 yards nightly, thrives in chaos. They're 3-1 ATS on the road lately, and experts peg a 75% win probability. Odds: Lions -10.5, total 47.5. Simulations favor a tight 25-24 Detroit squeaker, but most see a rout. For Bengals fans, it's survival mode; for Lions, a statement en route to contention. The 2025 MLB Division Series explode into action Saturday, October 4, pitting powerhouses against wild-card warriors in best-of-five thrillers. In the AL, powerhouse Toronto Blue Jays (1 seed) host the surging New York Yankees (WC), where Aaron Judge's bat clashes with Toronto's deep rotation led by Kevin Gausman. Meanwhile, Seattle Mariners (2 seed) face gritty Detroit Tigers, with Tarik Skubal's 14-K wild-card gem eyeing a repeat against Seattle's ace Luis Castillo—expect pitching duels in the Emerald City. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsNews

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a heart-wrenching conclusion to their improbable 2025 season, the Cincinnati Reds fell 8-4 to the Los Angeles Dodgers on October 1 at Dodger Stadium, swept out of the MLB playoffs in the National League Wild Card Series. The loss capped a valiant but ultimately futile effort from a young Reds squad that defied 83-79 odds to snag a postseason berth, only to collide with the juggernaut defending champions. The game mirrored the series' narrative: Cincinnati's flashes of brilliance smothered by L.A.'s relentless firepower. Reds starter Zack Littell kept it close early, allowing just two runs through five innings. But the Dodgers' offense—fueled by 13 hits and opportunistic small ball—erupted in the sixth, plating four runs to seize a 6-2 lead. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Japanese ace, was masterful for L.A., fanning nine in 6.2 innings while navigating a bases-loaded jam in the sixth that could have swung momentum. Cincinnati's fightback was fierce. They grabbed a 2-0 first-inning lead on Sal Stewart's two-run RBI single that eluded Freddie Freeman's glove— their first postseason advantage since 2012. Elly De La Cruz dazzled with his trademark speed, legging out infield hits and swiping bags, while Matt McLain's diving stops kept hope alive. Late rallies narrowed the gap, loading the bases in the eighth, but the bullpen faltered, and Jack Dreyer's escapes sealed the deal. For the Reds, it's a bitter pill. This roster, blending raw talent like De La Cruz and Greene with veterans like Stephenson, showed October mettle. Yet, against the Dodgers' star-studded lineup—Ohtani's clutch RBI, Betts' timely double—the gap was exposed. As L.A. advances to face the Phillies, Cincinnati heads to the drawing board, rebuilding around its dynamic core. The future burns bright, but tonight, the sting of elimination lingers. Onward to 2026. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPostseason

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a stunning display of postseason firepower, the Cincinnati Reds' long-awaited return to October ended abruptly with a 10-5 thrashing by the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series on September 30 at Dodger Stadium. For the Reds, who clawed their way into the playoffs for the first time since 2020, the night served as a harsh reminder of the chasm between scrappy upstarts and a loaded powerhouse. A raucous crowd of 50,555 watched as L.A. unleashed five home runs, turning ace Hunter Greene's start into a nightmare. Greene, the Reds' flame-throwing righty and a lifelong Dodgers fan, entered with sky-high expectations. But the Dodgers pounced immediately. Facing a 100.4 mph fastball, Shohei Ohtani crushed a 117.7 mph line drive for a solo homer to right, igniting the fuse. Mookie Betts singled, and the floodgates opened: Teoscar Hernández blasted a three-run shot, followed by homers from Will Smith and Max Muncy. Greene's line was brutal—five runs, three homers, six hits over four innings on 65 pitches. "He didn't locate, and when he didn't, he paid a price," lamented manager Terry Francona. The Dodgers' onslaught continued behind Blake Snell's masterful seven innings, fanning nine while allowing just two runs. Ohtani added a 454-foot two-run bomb off reliever Connor Phillips in the sixth, his second of the night, as L.A. built a 10-2 cushion by the seventh. The Dodgers became only the fifth team with two multi-homer players in a playoff game, per MLB stats. Cincinnati flickered late, capitalizing on a Dodgers bullpen wobble in the eighth. Relievers Alex Vesia, Edgardo Henriquez, and Jack Dreyer issued four walks, allowing the Reds to bat around and plate three runs via a Spencer Steer single and forced errors. Elly De La Cruz's RBI groundout and Tyler Stephenson's double offered brief hope, but it was too little, too late. The Reds stranded seven runners, their offense mustering seven hits but zero long balls. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPostseason

Despite being the most popular player in FPL, Joao Pedro is being transferred out by a lot managers as his struggles in front of goal continue

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! Last night's "Monday Night Football" showdown at Empower Field at Mile High turned into a nightmare for the Cincinnati Bengals, who fell flat in a humiliating 28-3 drubbing by the Denver Broncos. Entering Week 4 at 2-1, the Bengals were riding high after gritty wins over the Browns and Jaguars, but the absence of star quarterback Joe Burrow—sidelined by a Grade 3 turf toe injury—exposed their vulnerabilities like never before. Backup Jake Browning, thrust into the spotlight, managed a dismal 14-of-25 for just 105 yards, with zero touchdowns and the offense mustering a pathetic 159 total yards. It was a symphony of miscues: penalties stalled drives, the line crumbled under pressure, and the defense, once a Bengals hallmark, leaked like a sieve. The Broncos, meanwhile, feasted. Rookie sensation Bo Nix orchestrated a masterclass, completing 29 of 42 passes for 326 yards, two aerial scores, and adding a rushing touchdown to cap his MVP-worthy night. Running back J.K. Dobbins bulldozed for 101 yards—the first 100-yard rusher under coach Sean Payton—while receiver R.J. Harvey snagged a 12-yard touchdown to seal the rout. Denver's opportunistic play turned Bengals turnovers into points, improving the Broncos to 2-2 and injecting life into a franchise starved for prime-time joy. For Cincinnati, now 2-2, the loss stings in a wide-open AFC North, with a daunting Lions matchup looming on Oct. 5. Burrow's return can't come soon enough; without him, the Who-Dey faithful are left questioning if this team's championship window is slamming shut. Shifting gears to baseball, Cincinnati sports fans get a shot at catharsis tonight as the Reds clash with the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series at Dodger Stadium (9:08 p.m. ET, ESPN). The Reds (83-79) stormed into October on the regular season's final day, edging the Mets in a payroll-punishing thriller—their first playoff dance since 2020. Riding momentum, they're underdogs at +167 odds, but sparkplug shortstop Elly De La Cruz (22 HRs, 86 RBIs) could be the X-factor, his speed and flair a nightmare for LA's stars like Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman (.295 BA, scorching lately). On the hill, Reds ace Hunter Greene faces Dodgers lefty Blake Snell in a pitcher's duel, with the over/under at 7.5. LA (93-69), the defending champs with a half-billion-dollar payroll, dominated the season series 30-15 but swept Cincy at home last month. Still, the Reds' sneaky bullpen edge and 30-year-old ghosts of their 1995 NLDS sweep over LA fuel upset dreams. A Reds win tonight? It'd be the ultimate salve for Bengals wounds, proving Cincinnati's stripes run deeper than one bad night. Buckle up—October magic awaits. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPostseason

On the clock, Ben Hutchens from the Quad City Times talks Cyclones, and we faceoff.

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a season of twists and tenacious comebacks, the Cincinnati Reds etched their name back into MLB's October lore on September 28, 2025. Despite a gritty 4-2 defeat to the Milwaukee Brewers in their regular-season finale, the Reds clinched the National League's final Wild Card spot, thanks to the New York Mets' heartbreaking collapse against the Miami Marlins. Holding a decisive 4-2 head-to-head edge over the Mets, Cincinnati secured their 17th postseason berth—the first in a full 162-game campaign since 2013 and their first deep run since sweeping the Dodgers in the 1995 NLDS.  This improbable resurrection from a six-game deficit in early September showcases the Reds' cockroach-like resilience, as outfielder TJ Friedl quipped. New manager Terry Francona's steady hand transformed a young, volatile roster into playoff contenders, blending Elly De La Cruz's electric speed with Hunter Greene's fireballing mound presence. Fans stormed Great American Ball Park in euphoric disbelief, popping champagne amid chants of "Reds October!" Their reward: a high-stakes Wild Card showdown against the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, where underdog fire meets Hollywood glamour. Cincinnati's window is wide open—expect fireworks, not just participation trophies. As the baseball champagne dries, Cincy's gridiron warriors pivot to primetime redemption. Tonight, September 29, the 2-1 Bengals invade Empower Field at Mile High to battle the 1-2 Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN). Without star QB Joe Burrow sidelined by injury, Jake Browning steps into the spotlight, his turnover-prone start (five picks in six quarters) clashing against Denver's ferocious No. 1-ranked pass rush The Broncos, desperate after back-to-back road heartbreaks, loom as 7.5-point favorites, fueled by rookie RB J.K. Dobbins' ground-and-pound (74 yards per game) and Courtland Sutton's red-zone menace. Cincinnati's 22nd-ranked defense, vulnerable to the run, faces a high-altitude bully ball at thin air. Yet, Ja'Marr Chase's explosiveness could flip the script in this AFC showdown, where the Bengals boast a 6-0 streak against conference foes. Under 43.5 total points? A trench war looms, but Who Dey Nation dreams of Burrow-less magic. From diamond triumph to gridiron grit, Cincinnati owns the spotlight—pure, unfiltered Queen City passion. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPostseason

Sean Roberts and Lucas Strain live from Rally House in Ames! Professional Bettor Rob Donaldson! John Hernandez from Prairie Meadows!

Sean Roberts and Lucas Strain live from Rally House in Ames! David Eickholt from 247 Sports on Iowa/Indiana!

Sean Roberts and Lucas Strain live at Rally House in Ames! Bill Seals from On3 Media!

Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! Under the glaring lights of Great American Ball Park, the Cincinnati Reds' playoff dreams flickered and faded in the cruel twilight of extra innings. On September 24, 2025, a fired-up crowd of 30,725 watched in stunned silence as the Pittsburgh Pirates snatched a 4-3 victory in the 11th, delivering a dagger to Cincinnati's NL wild-card hopes. Tied with Arizona and just one game behind the Mets entering the night, the Reds now stare at a precarious half-game deficit with only five contests left—a loss that feels like the backbreaker in a season of tantalizing what-ifs. The evening began as a pitcher's duel for the ages, pitting Reds ace Hunter Greene against Pirates phenom Paul Skenes, the NL Cy Young frontrunner. Greene, battling for his 8th win, scattered five hits over six innings, allowing two earned runs while fanning seven. But Skenes was untouchable, surrendering just four hits in six scoreless frames, whiffing seven and etching his name in franchise lore with his 211th strikeout—a Pirates record for a righty. Pittsburgh scratched out a 2-0 lead in the second on Bryan Reynolds' RBI single and Oneil Cruz's sacrifice fly, quieting the home faithful. Hope ignited in the eighth. Down 2-0, Noelvi Marte unleashed chaos with his first career inside-the-park homer, a liner off the wall that caromed wildly into left-center, allowing him to circle the bases untouched. The GABP erupted. Then, in the ninth, Tyler Stephenson crushed a solo shot off closer Dennis Santana, knotting it at 2-2 and forcing extras. "Stephenson's blast was pure adrenaline," Reds manager Terry Francona said postgame. "We had momentum." But baseball's heartless script twisted in the 10th. Jack Suwinski's RBI double plated the go-ahead run for a 3-2 Pirates edge. The Reds clawed back on Gavin Lux's sacrifice fly, tying it once more at 3-3. Agony peaked in the 11th: Spencer Horwitz's leadoff double scored Reynolds—his third run of the night—for a 4-3 lead. Cincinnati loaded the bases with two outs, hearts pounding, only for Marte to ground into a momentum-crushing force out against Yohan Ramirez. Final out. Ballgame over. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #RedsPirates

On Off The Bench and The Stone Shields Show today we discuss the Reds crushing loss to the Pirates last night, Paul Skenes vs. Hunter Greene tonight, the latest Bengals news and more! Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a gut-wrenching setback for Cincinnati's playoff dreams, the Reds fell 4-2 to the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday night at Great American Ball Park, snapping their five-game winning streak and dropping them a full game behind the New York Mets for the NL's final wild-card spot. The loss couldn't have come at a worse time, with only a handful of games left in the regular season and the Reds clinging to faint postseason hopes. The game unraveled early for Reds starter Brady Singer, who imploded in the second inning, surrendering four runs on five hits—including a two-run homer from Pirates shortstop Oneil Cruz—that chased him after just 1.1 innings. Singer's command faltered, ballooning his season ERA to 3.95 and leaving Cincinnati in an early hole. Pittsburgh's Johan Oviedo, making his eighth start, steadied the ship for the visitors, allowing just two runs over five innings despite a shaky Reds lineup. Cincinnati clawed back briefly when sparkplug shortstop Elly De La Cruz crushed a 415-foot two-run homer in the bottom of the second, his second blast in as many games after ending a 43-game drought. But the Reds' offense sputtered thereafter, stranding runners in key spots, including a bases-loaded threat in the sixth snuffed out by rookie reliever Hunter Barco's debut gem. The bullpen held firm, but it wasn't enough against a Pirates squad playing spoiler. Tonight's game (6:40 p.m. ET) pits two of baseball's brightest young arms in a must-win for Cincinnati: Reds ace Hunter Greene (7-4, 2.74 ERA) versus Pirates phenom Paul Skenes (10-10, 2.03 ERA). Greene, the flamethrowing righty, has been lights-out lately, fanning 10+ in four of his last five starts, but faces a tall order against Skenes—the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year and Cy Young frontrunner—who's chasing a sub-2.00 ERA in his final outing. Expect triple-digit heat, high drama, and a low-scoring affair that could swing the wild-card fate. Amid the baseball buzz, Cincinnati sports mourns the tragic loss of Bengals legend Rudi Johnson, who died by suicide at 45 on Tuesday, per police reports. The fourth-round pick (2001) became a Pro Bowl powerhouse, holding the franchise single-season rushing record (1,458 yards in 2005) and ranking fourth all-time with 5,742 yards. Teammates like Carson Palmer hailed his "joyful presence," while Chad Johnson tweeted a heartfelt tribute. Bengals president Mike Brown called him a "dear friend" and "excellent running back." Johnson's foundation aided local causes, leaving a legacy beyond the field. RIP, Rudy—your spirit endures. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #Reds #Bengals #HunterGreene

On Off The Bench and The Stone Shields Show today we discuss Reds vs. Pirates, Terry Francona's decision to stay put with Hunter Greene, whether the Bengals quite on Zac Taylor and more! Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! Tonight, September 23, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds host the Pittsburgh Pirates in the opener of a pivotal three-game series at Great American Ball Park, with everything on the line in the NL Wild Card race. Sitting at 79-76 after a gritty 6-3 win over the Cubs on Saturday—capped by Spencer Steer's scorching four-homer streak—the Reds have clawed into the third Wild Card spot, one game ahead of the surging New York Mets (78-77) and tied with the Giants for the final berth. Their magic number to clinch is 6: a combination of Reds wins and Mets losses that locks in postseason entry. This isn't just survival; it's redemption for a franchise starved for October baseball since a 2020 Wild Card sweep. With six games left—all divisional, including this Pirates set and a road finale against the Brewers—the Reds control their destiny in the razor-thin NL Central scrum. A win tonight, behind probable starter Hunter Greene's electric heat, could drop that magic number to 5 and tilt momentum against a Pirates squad that's 72-83 but pesky at home. Lose, and the Mets' tiebreaker edge looms large, potentially dooming Cincinnati to another heartbreaking fade. Young guns like Elly De La Cruz and Steer have ignited a late surge, but the bullpen's fragility and road woes against Milwaukee amplify the peril. Playoffs mean national stage validation for GM Nick Krall's rebuild; missing them risks fan apathy and another lost winter. At stake: legacy, pride, and a ticket to the expanded postseason starting September 30. Win, and Cincy dreams big. Falter, and it's back to the drawing board.  On September 21, 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals suffered a brutal 48-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, their worst defeat ever, dropping them to 0-3. With Joe Burrow out (wrist fracture), backup Jake Browning struggled, completing 12 of 25 passes for 98 yards and two interceptions. The defense collapsed, allowing 412 yards, as Carson Wentz carved them up in relief of rookie JJ McCarthy. Fans on X erupted, slamming the "effortless" performance and Zac Taylor's play-calling. Despite the rout, insiders argue it's too early to call it quits, citing Taylor's playoff pedigree. The Bengals face a critical rebound test. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #NFL #Bengals #Reds

Some premium players aren't delivering as they have done previously which is causing headaches for FPL managers as they try to predict where points will come from

We go on the clock sponsored by Fiscus Jewelers, Ben Hutchens from the Quad City Times talks Iowa State and we Face Off.

On Off The Bench and The Stone Shields Show today we discuss defensive improvement for the Bengals, the Reds refusal to give in, NFL playoff predictions, Bengals vs. Vikings injury report and more! Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a weekend that encapsulated the highs and lows of fandom, Cincinnati's sports landscape delivered gut-wrenching drama. The Bengals, already limping from a 0-2 start, suffered their most humiliating defeat in franchise history—a 45-7 evisceration at the hands of the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday afternoon. What began as a hopeful redemption arc for Joe Burrow's squad devolved into a defensive masterclass for Minnesota, spearheaded by cornerback Byron Murphy II (formerly Josh Metellus in a bizarre naming glitch? No, wait—Byron Murphy? Actually, reports pinpointed Isaiah Rodgers as the nightmare). Rodgers etched his name in NFL lore with an 87-yard pick-six, a 66-yard fumble return touchdown off tight end Noah Fant, and two forced fumbles—one stripping Ja'Marr Chase. Carson Wentz, the Vikings' journeyman QB, diced Cincinnati's secondary for 173 yards and two scores, while Jordan Mason bulldozed for 116 rushing yards and a pair of TDs. The halftime dagger? A franchise-record 62-yard field goal as the clock expired, swelling Minnesota's lead to 31-3. Bengals fans, a sea of orange in U.S. Bank Stadium, streamed out early, their playoff dreams flickering like a faulty stadium light. For a team banking on Burrow's arm and Chase's speed, this 38-point rout exposed foundational cracks—coordination lapses, pass protection failures, and a secondary that might as well have been playing flag football. At 0-3, whispers of a lost season grow louder, with whispers of coaching scrutiny trailing Zac Taylor. Yet, in the shadow of gridiron despair, the Reds ignited hope with a surgical 1-0 shutout over the Cubs, vaulting them into a tie with the Mets for the NL's third wild-card spot at 80-76. Elly De La Cruz's leadoff double in the first, followed by a sacrifice fly from Spencer Steer, stood as the lone run, backed by Nick Martinez's gem—seven innings of two-hit ball, fanning eight. This victory, paired with New York's feeble 3-2 stumble against the Nationals (outdueled by bargain-bin hurlers Jake Irvin and Mitchell Parker), flipped the script. The Mets, once soaring with Juan Soto's MVP-caliber bat, have cratered with an 8-game skid and a 35-52 nosedive since mid-June—their $765 million payroll yielding White Sox-level futility. Cincinnati now holds the head-to-head tiebreaker over the Mets, a razor-thin edge in a scrum with the Diamondbacks lurking one game back. With three against the Pirates (whom they've owned 6-4) and a Brewers finale, the Reds' fate dangles tantalizingly. For a city nursing NFL wounds, this baseball surge feels like a salve—a reminder that in Cincinnati, resilience is the real MVP. As October beckons, the Queen City's pulse quickens: Can the Reds clinch a dance while the Bengals lick their wounds? Only the final week will tell. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock).

Knicks G Josh Hart Season Preview. Follow our social media!XInstagram YouTube

On Off The Bench and The Stone Shields Show today we discuss defensive improvement for the Bengals, the Reds refusal to give in, NFL playoff predictions, Bengals vs. Vikings injury report and more! Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! The Cincinnati Reds secured a victory against the St. Louis Cardinals on September 17, 2025, clinching the series with a strong performance led by Spencer Steer, who drove in five runs. The Reds' offense was potent, capitalizing on key moments to outpace the Cardinals, whose record fell to 73-77. The game, played at Busch Stadium, showcased Cincinnati's ability to exploit pitching mistakes, with Steer's standout contribution highlighted in posts on X. Despite their 74-75 record, the Reds remain a competitive force in the NL Central, though playoff odds are slim at 12.9%. This win underscores their resilience under manager Terry Francona, with the team leaning on offensive firepower to stay relevant in a tight wild card race. The Cincinnati Bengals' defense has emerged as a strength in 2025, particularly evident in their 17-16 Week 1 win over the Cleveland Browns. Under new defensive coordinator Al Golden, the unit limited Cleveland to 296 yards before a late drive, with DJ Turner II securing his first career interception and Jordan Battle adding another. Trey Hendrickson's sack on Joe Flacco forced a missed field goal, sealing the victory. The defense's performance was a marked improvement over 2024, when it struggled, allowing Cincinnati to overcome an anemic offense that managed just 141 total yards. This defensive resurgence has fueled optimism, with the Bengals (2-0) atop the AFC North, showing they can win gritty games. The Minnesota Vikings' Week 3 injury report ahead of their game against the Cincinnati Bengals lists 12 players, with over 20% of the 53-man roster affected. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy (ankle) and center Ryan Kelly (concussion) did not practice and are likely out, with Carson Wentz expected to start. Left tackle Justin Skule (concussion) also missed practice. Limited participants include linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (concussion), safety Harrison Smith (illness), and others with minor injuries. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw (knee) and cornerback Jeff Okudah (concussion) were full participants, signaling potential returns. The Vikings face depth challenges but show encouraging signs Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #NFL #Bengals #TheStoneShieldsShow

On the clock, Tyler Kluver joins us to talk Hawks, and Faceoff!

On Off The Bench and The Stone Shields Show today we discuss the Reds losing to the Cardinals, NFL Power Rankings, is Joe Burrow the next Andrew Luck, the best QB's in college football and more! Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In a frustrating shutdown affair at Busch Stadium, the Cincinnati Reds suffered a 3-0 defeat to the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday night, September 16, 2025, dimming their fading playoff aspirations. The loss marked the Reds' fourth in five games, dropping them three games behind the New York Mets for the final National League Wild Card spot with just 12 contests left in the regular season. Cincinnati's offense, once a high-octane force, went ice-cold, managing only three hits against a stingy Cardinals staff. Rookie right-hander Michael McGreevy dominated for St. Louis, delivering seven sharp innings with just three hits, three walks, and six strikeouts on 91 pitches. His poise silenced the Reds' bats, setting the stage for Thomas Saggese's pivotal two-run homer in the third inning that provided all the offense the home team needed. Relievers closed out the three-hitter, with Riley O'Brien notching his fifth save in a crisp 1-2-3 ninth. On the mound, Reds starter Andrew Abbott struggled through 4 2/3 innings, surrendering three runs on eight hits while fanning seven. The defeat underscored Cincinnati's mounting inconsistencies—stranded runners and untimely errors plagued a lineup desperate for momentum after Monday's dramatic 11-6 comeback win. Manager David Bell lamented the missed opportunities, noting, "We couldn't string anything together tonight. Credit to their pitcher, but we've got to find our fight." Shifting gears to the gridiron, the undefeated Cincinnati Bengals (2-0) face a pivotal road test against the Minnesota Vikings (1-1) on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at U.S. Bank Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM ET on CBS, with Minnesota favored by 3.5 points and a total of 42 points. Cincinnati enters hot off a gritty 31-27 thriller over Jacksonville, where backup QB Jake Browning stepped up amid Joe Burrow's indefinite injury absence. Browning's poise—highlighted by clutch late-game heroics—fuels optimism, but the Bengals' secondary talent, like Ja'Marr Chase, will clash with Minnesota's star Justin Jefferson. Running back Chase Brown (47 yards last outing) must exploit a Vikings rush defense that allowed 139 yards against Jacksonville. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #NFL #Bengals #TheStoneShieldsShow

On Off The Bench and The Stone Shields Show today we discuss the Bengals potentially adding a veteran QB, Zac Taylor's comments at his press conference, Monday Night Football and more! Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! The Cincinnati Bengals' 2-0 start hit a gut-wrenching snag when star quarterback Joe Burrow suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury in their 31-27 thriller over the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 14. Burrow, who threw for 76 yards and a touchdown before exiting, underwent surgery and faces at least three months sidelined—potentially until mid-December. Backup Jake Browning stepped up admirably, completing 21 of 32 passes for 241 yards, two scores, and three picks, including a game-winning 1-yard sneak with 18 seconds left. With Burrow out, whispers of a veteran addition swirl. Analysts eye Atlanta's Kirk Cousins for his experience, though his $24.4 million salary looms large, or Tampa Bay's Jameis Winston for a low-cost cannon arm to sling to Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. A Jimmy Garoppolo trade from the Rams could add Super Bowl savvy cheaply, but Cincinnati's confidence in Browning—fresh off a 4-3 stint in 2023—might keep them steady for now.  Shifting to college gridiron glory, No. 16 Texas A&M stunned No. 8 Notre Dame 41-40 in a Saturday night heart-stopper at Notre Dame Stadium on September 13. Sophomore QB Marcel Reed dazzled with 360 passing yards, two TDs, and a crucial 11-yard strike to Nate Boerkircher with 13 seconds left, capping a 74-yard drive. The Aggies (3-0) overcame a botched extra point on ND's late score, avenging last year's 23-13 loss with a prolific air attack—unlike their prior ground-and-pound struggle. Notre Dame (1-2) squandered a 40-34 lead, their playoff dreams dimming after a national title game run last season; defensive lapses and a blocked punt return TD haunted the Irish. A&M's road ranked win, first since 2014, signals SEC contender status under Mike Elko.  Monday Night Football capped Week 2 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers edging the Houston Texans 20-19 on September 15, moving to 2-0 via late-game magic. Baker Mayfield outdueled C.J. Stroud, engineering a final drive for Rachaad White's 2-yard TD plunge with six ticks left. Tampa's 169 rushing yards overwhelmed Houston's 84, with Bucky Irving (71) and White (65) pounding the rock; Emeka Egbuka's screen TD gave the Bucs their first lead. The Texans (0-2) faltered on red-zone stalls and special teams woes, including a blocked punt; Nick Chubb's 25-yard score off a return couldn't salvage it. Houston's AFC South title repeat now teeters, while Mayfield's heroics echo his Week 1 rally. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #NFL #Bengals #TheStoneShieldsShow

Erling Haaland is becoming a must-have this season following his match-winning display in the Manchester derby, which saw him climb to the top of the FPL points standing

Jethro's BBQ Reaction Monday.

On Off The Bench and The Stone Shields Show today we discuss the Bengals improving to 2-0 but losing star QB Joe Burrow to a toe injury in the process. Off The Bench is back weekdays from 10a to 11a followed by The Stone Shields Show from 11a to noon! In the electrifying chaos of Week 2's NFL showdown on September 14, 2025, at Paycor Stadium, the Cincinnati Bengals clawed to a thrilling 31-27 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, marking their first 2-0 start under head coach Zac Taylor since 2018. But the triumph was bittersweet, overshadowed by a devastating injury to star quarterback Joe Burrow. Burrow, the Bengals' franchise cornerstone and reigning Comeback Player of the Year after a stellar 2024 rebound from wrist surgery, dazzled early. He completed 7 of 13 passes for 76 yards and a touchdown, including a sharp 4-yard slant to Ja'Marr Chase in the first quarter. The offense hummed, with Chase erupting for 14 receptions and 165 yards—his best outing since the prior season. Yet, midway through the second quarter, disaster struck. On a second-down sack by Jaguars defensive tackle Arik Armstead, Burrow's left cleat caught the turf awkwardly, hyperextending his big toe. He crumpled, clutching his ankle initially, before trainers zeroed in on the foot. Helped off the field and into the medical tent, Burrow underwent an immediate MRI, emerging on a one-legged scooter, unable to bear weight. Diagnosed with turf toe—potentially a severe Grade 3 tear involving ligaments—the injury could sideline him for multiple weeks, or worse, up to three months if surgery is required. Images were rushed to renowned foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson, with reports indicating non-surgical options are fading. Burrow was spotted postgame in a walking boot and on crutches, a gut punch for a QB whose career has been plagued by setbacks: a rookie-year ACL rupture in 2020, a 2023 wrist fracture, and nagging knee strains. Enter backup Jake Browning, the steady veteran who went 4-3 in Burrow's 2023 absence. Thrust into the fray with Cincinnati trailing 17-10 at halftime, Browning shook off early jitters—throwing three interceptions, including two picks forced by Bengals defenders Jordan Battle and Dax Hill on Trevor Lawrence. Yet, he steadied, finishing 21-of-32 for 241 yards and two scores. The game-winner? A masterful 93-yard, 15-play drive capped by Browning's 1-yard sneak with 18 seconds left, aided by a pass-interference call on Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter. Lawrence, meanwhile, torched the secondary for 294 yards and three TDs but faltered with two costly picks, dropping Jacksonville to 1-1. Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap). Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock). #NFL #Bengals #OffTheBench

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 BACK! Join the crew for all the reaction and hot takes to the Cincinnati Bengals win over the Browns and Week 1 of the NFL season. Cincinnati Bengals Edge Cleveland Browns in Week 1 Thriller In a gritty AFC North showdown, the Cincinnati Bengals narrowly defeated the Cleveland Browns 17-16 on September 7, 2025, at Huntington Bank Field, kicking off their season with a crucial 1-0 record. The Bengals, fueled by comments from Browns' receiver Jerry Jeudy, relied on a strong first half led by quarterback Joe Burrow and running back Chase Brown. Burrow orchestrated a methodical opening drive, throwing for 113 yards and a touchdown, while Brown paced the ground game, helping Cincinnati build a 14-point lead. However, the offense struggled in the second half, managing just 2 net yards and one first down across their final four drives, totaling minus-23 yards. The Bengals' defense stepped up, securing two critical interceptions off dropped passes by Cleveland's receivers, halting potential go-ahead scores. A missed extra point and a failed field goal attempt by Browns' rookie kicker Andre Szmyt in the fourth quarter sealed Cleveland's fate. Despite outgaining Cincinnati 327 to 141 yards, the Browns couldn't capitalize, dropping to 0-1. This win marked the Bengals' first Week 1 victory since 2021, breaking a trend of slow starts under coach Zac Taylor, who emphasized the importance of starting 1-0 in the division. Cincinnati Reds Rally to Beat New York Mets The Cincinnati Reds staged a dramatic comeback to defeat the New York Mets 6-5 on September 7, 2025, at Great American Ball Park, improving their record to 72-71. Trailing 5-4 in the bottom of the ninth, the Reds capitalized on a Mets' bullpen collapse. With two outs, Will Benson delivered a walk-off single, capping a rally sparked by a series of clutch hits and Mets' defensive miscues. Reds' starting pitchers Nick Martinez, Andrew Abbott, and Nick Lodolo had previously excelled against the Padres in July, and their depth was evident here. Despite a challenging 2-12 record in their last 14 games in San Diego, the Reds showed resilience against a strong Mets squad. This victory highlighted their ability to compete against top National League teams, boosting their momentum as they vie for a wild card spot, though they trail the Padres by 6.0 games. The Reds' .248 batting average and 93 stolen bases rank them mid-tier in MLB, but their fightback spirit could prove vital in the season's final stretch. Top NFL Storylines from Week 1, 2025 Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season delivered compelling narratives across the league, setting the tone for an unpredictable year. Here are five key storylines: Bengals Overcome Slow-Start Narrative: The Bengals' 17-16 win over the Browns was a statement against their historical Week 1 struggles (1-5 under Zac Taylor). Joe Burrow's leadership and defensive opportunism, including two interceptions, silenced doubters, though their second-half offensive collapse (2 net yards) raises concerns about consistency. Aaron Rodgers' Steelers Debut: In a dramatic 34-32 victory over the New York Jets, Aaron Rodgers, now with the Pittsburgh Steelers, showcased his enduring talent. Despite a turbulent Jets tenure, Rodgers led a comeback, exploiting a fumble and a late 68-yard touchdown drive. His performance underscored his quest for one last playoff run at age 41. Browns' Offensive Woes Persist: Cleveland's loss to Cincinnati highlighted ongoing offensive struggles. Despite a robust defense holding the Bengals to 141 yards, Joe Flacco's receivers dropped four catchable passes, two leading to interceptions, and rookie kicker Andre Szmyt missed critical kicks. The Browns' 3-14 record last season looms large as they navigate a soft roster reset. Daniel Jones Revitalized with Colts: In a 33-8 rout of the Miami Dolphins, Daniel Jones, now starting for the Indianapolis Colts, looked rejuvenated under new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. The Colts' defense, featuring exotic pressure packages, stifled Miami, holding them to under 100 yards until late in the third quarter. Jones' steady play signals playoff potential for Indianapolis. Micah Parsons' Packers Impact: Traded to the Green Bay Packers before Week 1, Micah Parsons made an immediate impact in a 27-13 win over the Detroit Lions, despite playing only 29 snaps. His pressure on Jared Goff, including a sack and aiding an interception, showcased his value to an already stout defense, though his back injury raises durability questions. On September 6, 2025, the Cincinnati Bearcats defeated the Bowling Green Falcons 34-20 at Nippert Stadium, securing their first win of the season (1-1). QB Brendan Sorsby threw for 333 yards and three TDs, including two to Cyrus Allen, and ran for another. The Bearcats overcame a 0-4 historical deficit against BGSU, with their defense notching four sacks to hand new Falcons coach Eddie George his first FBS loss.

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