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The release of the 2025 NFL schedule has generated the usual mix of excitement and scrutiny, but one notable voice stood out among the : Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.
The star signal-caller wasn't shy in expressing disappointment after learning that, once again, he'll be leading his team into M&T Bank Stadium to face the Baltimore Ravens under the prime-time lights, this time, on Thanksgiving night.
Burrow wants Prime Time in Cincy
Burrow's frustration is understandable. In a league where every game carries weight and rivalries like Bengals-Ravens can determine postseason fates, the setting matters.
The Bengals are no strangers to high-pressure matchups, and once again, they'll meet the Ravens in Baltimore for a night game, marking the fourth straight year of that exact scenario.
"Playing in Baltimore for the fourth straight prime-time year isn't ideal," Burrow said Tuesday, via ESPN.
"Maybe we can get one of those in Cincinnati next year. Please."
While Burrow's tone was lighthearted, his point touched on a broader pattern.
The Bengals have become frequent travelers for night games, drawing three road prime-time contests in 2025, at Denver, at Baltimore, and at Miami, with only one at home, against Pittsburgh.
Last year was more of the same, and although Cincinnati handled those challenges well, fans and players alike are eager to see more marquee moments at Paycor Stadium.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor echoed the sentiment, noting the pride in earning national slots but acknowledging the desire for a better home-road balance.
"Playing on Thanksgiving night in a stand-alone game with the whole world watching... it's why you're in this business,"Taylor said.
"But we'd love to do that at home too."
The NFL took notice. Vice President of broadcast planning and scheduling Mike North responded to Burrow's remarks, itting the quarterback had a legitimate point.
"It's fair," North told Bengals.com.
"Once you start getting to the same thing three years in a row, four, or five years in a row... we probably have to adjust at some point."
North emphasized that Cincinnati has earned these slots due to its star power and thrilling games.
While change might not come immediately, he offered a glimmer of hope: "I'm sure Bengals fans would have preferred it in Cincinnati, but it should be fun for you guys to ruin Baltimore's Thanksgiving."
Whether it's home or away, one thing's certain, Bengals-Ravens will remain must-watch football.