01-12-2023, 04:42 PM
(01-12-2023, 01:59 PM)MileHighGrowler Wrote: Before the season, I expected to get to the playoffs, but not a SB win. That's such an uphill battle for any team. But the way this team hit their groove as the season went on, it feels like a lot less of a stretch. The hiccup in momentum the other week may or may not matter. Going into that MNF game, I was thinking SB bound, and if we'd beat the Bills that night, I would have been ready to lock that in. Now it feels a little harder, but I have faith the team can make it happen.
That said, I don't think I'll be disappointed if they lose after this weekend. They'll hopefully be in better shape next year and the window isn't closing. But I don't bet against this team any more. Which I think is the biggest win for this franchise; they've changed the expectations.
Folks, the poll asks for pre-season (not January) expectations (not hopes). This is pretty much where I was at in August. I expected us to win the division. So at this point, Bengals have met my expectations.
Now, my expectations are that we beat the Ravens this weekend. It's going to be more difficult than many are predicting. Their defense is an absolute bear. But unless we gift them with field position a couple of times, it's a game that we should win because we're better.
If we get past Baltimore, that ends my expectations and begins my hope -- unless, by some miracle, Miami beats the Bills. And beyond that, if KC loses and we host the AFC championship game. Any game at Paycor, I expect to win. But this team has a chance to win anywhere against anyone. That's my hope.
