Chatterbox Bengals: A Cincinnati Bengals NFL Podcast

On today’s episode, Stone Shields dives deep into Sunday’s massive Bengals–Bills matchup in Buffalo — a game that could reshape the AFC playoff picture. Stone breaks down why the current line makes no sense, why he believes Cincinnati should be closer to a three-point underdog at most, and why he’s confident the Bengals can walk into Orchard Park and win outright. He looks at the health advantage swinging Cincinnati’s way, including the long-awaited return of Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the field together for the first time since Week 2. From Buffalo’s injuries and turnover issues, to Cincinnati’s improved pass rush, to DJ Turner’s breakout and the challenges ahead for the Bengals’ safeties and linebackers, Stone dissects every matchup that matters. He also explains how James Cook could be Buffalo’s biggest weapon, what the Bengals must do to limit Josh Allen’s legs, and why special teams — especially Evan McPherson and punter Brad Robbins — could swing this game late. Then it’s on to the fun part: the Bengals offense. Stone details why December is Joe Burrow’s season, how Chase Brown and Samaje Perine have revitalized the run game, why the offensive line is trending up, and why he fully expects Cincinnati to put up points in bunches. With the Bengals surging, the roster getting healthier, and confidence growing on both sides of the ball, Stone lays out why this team is more dangerous than many realize — and why Sunday could look a lot like past Cincinnati trips to Buffalo. A huge matchup. A ton on the line. And plenty of value on the Bengals. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehfs0lZ19-s OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

On today’s episode, we zero in on one name dominating Bengals draft conversations: Caleb Downs. We break down why the Ohio State star safety is quickly becoming the most coveted defensive prospect for Cincinnati and why his skill set perfectly matches the Bengals’ biggest needs heading into 2025. We take a deep look at his elite instincts, physicality, versatility, and rare ability to both quarterback a defense and erase mistakes on the back end. From his downhill explosiveness to his fluid coverage ability, we explain why Downs is viewed as a plug-and-play starter with All-Pro upside — the kind of defensive cornerstone the Bengals haven’t drafted in years. We also discuss why his leadership, reliability, and football IQ make him an ideal fit for Al Golden's system — and why Cincinnati may need to be aggressive, even consider a small trade-up, if they want to land him. If Downs is on the board, the pick should be automatic. It’s a full breakdown of why Caleb Downs might be the most impactful player the Bengals could add this offseason — and why he should be at the top of every Cincinnati fan’s draft wishlist. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU0z6hcvK9k OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

On today’s episode, the guys dive into a passionate, unfiltered conversation about the state of the Cincinnati Bengals — and whether fans should believe the team’s late-season surge is real or just another dose of “Kool-Aid.” The show opens with a wild history lesson on the origins of the phrase “don’t drink the Kool-Aid,” before shifting into a raw, honest breakdown of the Bengals’ roller-coaster season. With Joe Burrow back and the team coming off its most complete performance of the year against Baltimore, national media are suddenly buying Cincinnati stock again. But is it warranted? One host isn’t convinced — laying out why the Bengals’ razor-thin margins, defensive inconsistency, coaching questions, and missed opportunities during Burrow’s eight-game absence make a miraculous run unlikely. From frustrating losses to the Jets and Bears, to what December football typically means in the Burrow/Taylor era, the conversation balances hope with realism. Stone weighs in, urging patience while acknowledging that optimism needs to be earned. If the Bengals show up again this Sunday in Buffalo, the tone could shift — but with no room for error, one great game isn’t enough to declare a turnaround. It’s a candid, emotional look at fandom in Cincinnati: the highs of dominating a rival on Thanksgiving, the lows of thinking about what could’ve been, and the eternal belief that as long as No. 9 is under center, the season isn’t dead. A must-listen for Bengals fans riding every twist of this chaotic year. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMWlPOpkItk OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Charlie Goldsmith joined The Stone Shields Show on Thursday.. Charlie shares insight on Trey Hendrickson’s complicated injury situation, why his week-to-week status has created uncertainty, and whether he may have played his final snap in Cincinnati. He breaks down how the Bengals’ defense has evolved under Al Golden, including new blitz packages, creative third-down personnel wrinkles, and growth from young players like Joseph Ossai and Chris Jenkins. Charlie also discusses Joe Burrow’s impressive return performance, how quickly he shook off the rust, and what that means heading into Buffalo. The conversation wraps with a look inside the Bengals’ draft-day process and how much influence Duke Tobin truly has. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbduakPtyxY OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Stone Shields breaks down the latest in the Trey Hendrickson saga — a story that has taken over Bengals conversations for weeks. With Hendrickson now 37 days removed from his last snap and continually listed as “doubtful,” Stone digs into why the star pass rusher hasn’t returned, why the Bengals chose not to place him on IR, and how his absence has impacted Cincinnati’s defensive rotation. Stone explores the growing frustration inside the organization, including Zac Taylor’s noticeably short answers about Hendrickson’s status and questions about whether the veteran is protecting himself for free agency rather than pushing to return. With Joseph Ossai, Miles Murphy and others stepping up, Stone discusses how the Bengals may be preparing for life after Trey — and why it now feels likely Hendrickson has played his final downs in stripes unless the Bengals beat Buffalo and stay in the playoff race. It’s an honest, detailed look at a complicated situation, Hendrickson’s future, and what it all means for the Bengals moving forward. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YL9U0nW5yj4 OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Wayne Box Miller of the Cincinnati Bengals Radio Network joins The Stone Shields Show for an in-depth breakdown of the latest Cincinnati Bengals storylines. Miller shares high praise for Joe Burrow’s impact since returning, gives valuable insight on Trey Hendrickson’s standout play, and dives into what’s next for the Bengals as they push through the season. A must-listen for Bengals fans looking for expert analysis, insider perspective, and fresh updates on all things Cincinnati Bengals football. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FSNmeWj40c OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

On today’s episode, we dive deep into the Cincinnati Bengals’ season-shifting Thanksgiving win in Baltimore and what Joe Burrow’s return really means for the rest of 2025. Was it perfect? Far from it. But his presence changed everything—energy, urgency, confidence, and the way the entire roster competed. We break down how Burrow reshaped the offense, whether the defense’s recent improvement is sustainable, and why DJ Turner’s emergence matters more than you think. We also look across the AFC landscape and explain why the conference is more wide open than usual. From Buffalo’s inconsistency, to Denver’s surprising rise, to the chaos in Pittsburgh and Cleveland, the Bengals’ path to a playoff run might be improbable—but absolutely not impossible. We discuss the mini-bye advantage, key matchups ahead, and which trends actually give Cincinnati a legitimate shot to run the table. Plus: what to make of the rookie linebackers, how Zac Taylor kept the team bought in, why sitting Joe Burrow was never a real option, and how recent games have quietly pushed the Bengals’ defense toward being “good enough” at the right time. If you’re a Bengals fan—or just love in-depth NFL talk—this episode is packed with everything you need heading into a massive matchup in Buffalo. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qL8_FampTm8&t=219s OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Craig Sandlin and Stone Shields break down the Cincinnati Bengals’ dominant road win over the Baltimore Ravens in Joe Burrow’s highly anticipated return. The guys recap every key moment—Burrow’s precision passing, the defense setting the tone, explosive playmakers stepping up, and the Bengals finally playing true complementary football for the first time all season. They also dive into what this statement win means for Cincinnati moving forward. Can the Bengals make a late playoff push? What does the slim postseason path actually look like? And how does the team match up with the Buffalo Bills in a massive upcoming showdown? If you’re looking for Bengals analysis, Ravens fallout, Joe Burrow updates, or detailed NFL Week 12 reactions, this episode has it all. Tune in for in-depth insight, strong opinions, and everything you need to know heading into another critical week for Cincinnati. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G96KBvWayGE OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Stone Shields delivers a full Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens preview ahead of the highly anticipated matchup. He breaks down the latest Bengals injury news, key players to watch, and the most important matchups that will shape Thursday night’s game. Stone also dives into the Bengals’ keys to victory, potential game-plan adjustments, and the latest Bengals rumors circulating as Cincinnati looks to make a statement against their AFC North rival. This episode is packed with analysis, insight, and everything fans need to get ready for Bengals–Ravens. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nL0hRpObUiQ OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Cincinnati Bengals insider Mike Petraglia joins The Stone Shields Show for a deep dive into a pivotal Thanksgiving week. We break down why Joe Burrow wants to play, Ja’Marr Chase sounding off after a turbulent week, and all the latest Cincinnati Bengals news and rumors ahead of Thursday night’s primetime showdown with the Baltimore Ravens. From injury updates to locker room reactions and what to expect in the rivalry matchup, this episode delivers everything Bengals fans need to know heading into Baltimore. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3tfJlPwPP8c OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Craig Sandlin reacts live to watching Joe Burrow's press conference discussing Thursdays return to action agains the Baltimore Ravens. Burrow discusses his rehab, why he didn't play vs the New England Patriots, and why he is returning at all in a lost season.

Stone Shields previews the Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens Thanksgiving Day matchup, breaking down key storylines, player matchups, and what the Bengals must do to get a crucial AFC North win. He also dives into the latest Joe Burrow injury update and expectations for his anticipated return to the field. Plus, Stone reacts to Ja’Marr Chase’s apology after spitting on Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey and the suspension that followed. This episode delivers all the biggest Bengals news, analysis, and updates you need heading into the holiday showdown. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIG4HIlrcu8 OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Yesterday's 26-20 loss to the New England Patriots at Paycor Stadium wasn't just another defeat for the Cincinnati Bengals—it was a gut-wrenching reminder of a season slipping into oblivion. Dropping to 3-8, the Bengals now stare down a Thanksgiving night showdown with the Ravens, where a return from Joe Burrow could be their last gasp. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5xSgQbGeZQ&t=909s OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Craig Sandlin and Austin Layton discuss the Bengals 26-20 loss to the New England Patriots. They discuss the defenses best performance in weeks, Joe Flacco's back-to-back subpar performances, and Zac Taylor's playcalling.

Craig Sandlin delivers his instant reaction to the breaking news that Joe Burrow has been ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the New England Patriots. In a candid moment, Craig admits he misread the situation and officially waves the white flag on the Bengals’ season. He breaks down why he believes the year is effectively over, what Joe Flacco’s start means for Cincinnati, and how he sees Sunday’s game unfolding. Tune in for unfiltered thoughts, honest frustration, and a raw look at where the Bengals go from here. Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlQ3yv1atdU OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING: Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 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

Reid Maus and Craig Sandlin discuss the validity of Joe Burrow returning this Sunday vs the New England Patriots... SPOILER-- They think it's happening.

In another addition, Reid and Craig are absolutely fed up with the Bengals. The Bengals fall to 3-7, and are losers in 7 of their last 8 games. It's ridiculous. Fire everyone... please.

Joe Burrow and the Bengals shock the world by reporting that the star quarterback has returned to practice. Reid Maus reacts to Burrow's press conference.

Craig Sandlin, Reid Maus, and Stone Shields discuss the breaking news that Joe Burrow has been designated to return from the IR by the Cincinnati Bengals. They discuss the impact the move has on team morale, the role of Joe Flacco and Jake Browning, and the timeline for Burrow's return.

At 3-6, the Cincinnati Bengals are a punchline for their porous defense, surrendering a league-worst 33.3 points and 429 yards per game—echoes of the 2008 Lions' futility. Yet, dismissing them as dead in the water ignores the explosive offense that's kept games razor-close: three of their six losses by a single score, including heartbreaks like 39-38 to the Jets and 47-42 to the Bears. With Joe Burrow sidelined by injury, 40-year-old Joe Flacco has stepped in as the bridge, flashing vintage magic that makes this squad a sneaky AFC threat. Flacco's not Burrow, but his grizzled poise—13 TDs against eight picks, 2,069 yards (10th in the NFL), and a 470-yard gem versus Chicago—has unlocked Cincinnati's arsenal. Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins feast in this scheme, racking up chunk plays that turn shootouts into Bengal brawls; their 24 points per game rank 16th, but efficiency screams upside. Add Mike Gesicki's red-zone emergence, and this unit remains the AFC's most overlooked scorcher, primed for a heater like Flacco's 2023 Browns miracle. The schedule softens post-bye: winnable tilts against the Raiders, Cardinals, and Steelers could spark a 7-9 finish, sneaking into the wild card as a dark horse. In a conference muddled by mediocrity, Flacco's unflappable arm elevates this offense to "don't sleep on" status—defensive woes be damned. One hot streak, and they're postseason predators, ready to sting the elite. Burrow's eventual return only amplifies the chaos; for now, Flacco's steady hand keeps the fire alive, proving experience trumps youth in the clutch. The Bengals aren't rebuilding—they're reloading for a revenge tour that could redefine their season.