Who has the worst fans in the NFL? I know everyone reading this would certainly not say the Bengals. I also know that home attendance numbers are not indicative of fanhood or loyalty towards their team. It can be an indication of the size of the stadium, weather, wins/losses, hot new big name players, new coach, new city or maybe just cool jerseys (I am looking at your Chargers).
When CBSSports put out the average home attendance numbers for 2019 the Cincinnati Bengals came in at second to last…just ahead of the Chargers. The Bengals average attendance was 47,179 which accounts for a stadium only 72% filled to capacity. See the following list:
I think there are a few factors at play here. 1) The 2019 Bengals stunk and their 2-14 record showed it. 2) Bengals fans really dislike PBS as a stadium and it is getting long in the tooth in addressing the fan experience. 3) It was clear that Andy Dalton was on the way out so it would be a while before the Bengals were playoff contenders again. 4) Cincinnati is a small market team still and does not have a huge national following or overcrowded city to rely on.
Why I think this matters is that 2020 is going to be a weird one. We still do not know how COVID will limit allowable attendance in stadiums or if even the season will start on time. Is that atmosphere even going to be loud enough to be fun for the fans to get into it. There is nothing better than a packed PBS on MNF and everyone screaming at the top of their lungs.
If Mike Brown and Katie/Troy do not see a return on investment (big FA signings) then are they apt to stay that course and keep dipping into Scrooge McDuck’s money bin to surround Burrow with talent? If the Bengals do not win and get the fan base back is Cincinnati not going to build the Bengals a new stadium in 5-10 years?
Personally I like watching games in the comfort of my living room. I eat what and when I want. My couch is more comfortable. I can check my phone and computer for fantasy updates and other game highlights. I can wear a diaper and just fill it so I don’t have to get up in a judge free environment. Ummm what? Moving on……
I do not anticipate 2020 will bring the second lowest average home attendance numbers. There is too much excitement around Joe Burrow. The team invested too much in that defense to make it better. We will win more than 2 games this season. The difference is hope….we have it now.
