Bengals vs Jaguars: NFL Game Week 2 | Sep 14, 2025
The Cincinnati Bengals and Jacksonville Jaguars will ignite the field in an exciting AFC showdown on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. This NFL Week 2 matchup, airing on CBS and streamable via FuboTV, brings together two teams looking to build momentum early in the 2025 season. With tickets starting at $137, fans are ready to pack the stands for a game filled with dynamic playmakers and high stakes. This article delves into the game’s details, key players, team narratives, ticket and viewing options, historical context, and predictions for this thrilling encounter.
Game Overview: An Early-Season AFC Battle
The Bengals, fresh off a 2024 season where they showcased offensive firepower, open their 2025 campaign on the road against the Kansas City Chiefs before returning home to face the Jaguars. Jacksonville, aiming to capitalize on their 9-8 record and playoff appearance in 2024, starts the season at home against the Miami Dolphins. This Week 2 game at Paycor Stadium is a critical opportunity for both teams to establish their identities in a competitive AFC landscape.
Paycor Stadium, known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate Bengals fanbase, will host this 1:00 PM ET kickoff. The game will be broadcast on CBS, with streaming options available on FuboTV and Paramount+ for fans watching from home. With both teams featuring talented quarterbacks and explosive offenses, this matchup promises to be a high-energy affair.
Key Players to Watch
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals’ offense is led by quarterback Joe Burrow, who threw for 3,844 yards, 27 touchdowns, and six interceptions in 15 games last season, completing 68.1% of his passes. Burrow’s connection with wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who had 100 receptions for 1,216 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024, remains one of the NFL’s most lethal duos. Running back Chase Brown, stepping into a larger role with 1,012 rushing yards, adds balance to the offense. Defensively, linebacker Logan Wilson (104 tackles, two interceptions) and defensive end Trey Hendrickson (17.5 sacks, second in the NFL) anchor a unit aiming to contain Jacksonville’s playmakers.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars’ offense revolves around quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who threw for 4,021 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions in 2024, while adding 341 rushing yards and four scores. Running back Travis Etienne Jr. contributed 1,008 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, while wide receiver Christian Kirk (projected starter for 2025) provides a reliable target. Defensively, Josh Hines-Allen (17.5 sacks, tied for second in the NFL) and Travon Walker (10 sacks) form a formidable pass-rushing duo, with cornerback Tyson Campbell bolstering the secondary.
Team Dynamics and Storylines
Bengals’ Super Bowl Ambitions
Under head coach Zac Taylor, the Bengals have become perennial playoff contenders, reaching the Super Bowl in 2021 and the AFC Championship in 2022. Their 2024 season saw them finish 9-8, with a potent offense averaging 336.5 total yards per game. Facing the Jaguars in Week 2, Cincinnati will rely on Burrow’s precision passing and a revamped offensive line, bolstered by rookie tackle Amarius Mims, to protect their star quarterback. The Bengals’ 4-1 record in their last five home openers at Paycor Stadium bodes well for a strong performance.
Jaguars’ Playoff Push
The Jaguars, led by head coach Doug Pederson, are coming off a 2024 season where they won the AFC South with a 9-8 record. Lawrence’s development and a strong running game fueled their success, but their defense, which allowed 21.8 points per game, needs consistency on the road. Jacksonville’s 2025 schedule includes a tough early stretch, with games against Miami, Cincinnati, and Buffalo in the first three weeks. A win in Cincinnati could signal their readiness to compete with the AFC’s elite.
Quarterback Showdown
The matchup between Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence is a headline-grabber. Burrow, known for his poise and clutch performances, faces a Jaguars defense that ranked 17th against the pass (220.9 yards allowed per game). Lawrence, a former No. 1 overall pick, must navigate Cincinnati’s aggressive pass rush, led by Hendrickson. Both quarterbacks are capable of game-changing plays, making this a battle of precision versus explosiveness.
Ticket Information: How to Attend
Tickets for the Bengals vs. Jaguars game are available through Ticketmaster, StubHub, and Vivid Seats, with prices starting at $137. Paycor Stadium’s 65,515 capacity fills quickly for AFC matchups, so fans should secure tickets early. Ticketmaster’s NFL Ticket Exchange ensures verified tickets, while StubHub and Vivid Seats offer secondary market options with buyer guarantees. Vivid Seats’ rewards program provides a free ticket after 10 purchases.
Bengals season ticket holders can access this game as part of their package, with details at www.bengals.com. Jaguars fans can explore single-game tickets at www.jaguars.com, though road game availability may be limited. Mobile ticketing via the Ticketmaster app offers contactless entry with SafeTix technology, allowing fans to scan tickets from their phones. The Jungle, Paycor Stadium’s tailgating zone, opens four hours before kickoff, featuring food trucks, live music, and Bengals-themed activities.
Viewing Options: How to Watch
The game will air live on CBS at 1:00 PM ET, with local broadcasts in Cincinnati, Jacksonville, and surrounding markets. Fans can stream on FuboTV, which includes CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and over 200 channels, with a free trial for new users. Paramount+ also streams NFL on CBS games, supporting devices like smartphones, tablets, and Roku. The Paramount+ app allows pausing and rewinding for a tailored viewing experience.
Out-of-market fans can use NFL+ for mobile streaming of local and primetime games, though blackout restrictions may apply. International viewers should check DAZN or www.nfl.com for regional options. In Cincinnati, bars like Holy Grail Tavern & Grille or Knockback Nats are popular watch party spots. Jacksonville fans can visit Intuition Ale Works for a lively game-day atmosphere.
Historical Context: Bengals vs. Jaguars Rivalry
The Bengals lead the all-time series against the Jaguars 14-11, with a 9-4 record at home. Recent matchups include a 24-21 Bengals win in 2021 and a 34-31 overtime thriller in 2023, both in Cincinnati. Jacksonville’s last victory in the series came in 2020 (33-25), but they’ve struggled at Paycor Stadium, losing four of their last five visits. The Bengals’ 7-2 ATS record in their last nine home games against Jacksonville gives them a statistical edge.
This Week 2 game is the first of two potential 2025 meetings, depending on playoff matchups. The outcome could influence the AFC playoff race, as both teams face tough divisional schedules later in the season.
Game Day Experience at Paycor Stadium
Paycor Stadium, formerly Paul Brown Stadium, is a modern venue with a capacity of 65,515 and a reputation for its raucous “Who Dey” fanbase. The Jungle tailgating area offers pre-game festivities, including Cincinnati chili, goetta sliders, and local craft beers. The Bengals’ mascot, Who Dey, and the team’s drumline energize the crowd. Fans can visit the Bengals Pro Shop for merchandise or explore the stadium’s Ring of Honor, celebrating franchise legends.
For Jaguars fans traveling to Cincinnati, hotels like the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza or The Cincinnatian offer convenient stays. Local restaurants such as Moerlein Lager House provide pre-game dining with Ohio River views. September weather in Cincinnati averages in the mid-70s, but fans should prepare for possible rain with ponchos or umbrellas.
Predictions and Expectations
The Bengals are favored by 6.5 points, reflecting their offensive prowess and home-field advantage. Cincinnati’s passing attack, led by Burrow and Chase, should exploit Jacksonville’s 17th-ranked pass defense. However, the Jaguars’ pass rush, with Hines-Allen and Walker, could pressure Burrow, who faced 38 sacks in 2024. Jacksonville’s running game, powered by Etienne, will test Cincinnati’s 21st-ranked run defense (126.2 yards allowed per game).
Expect a competitive game with both offenses finding success. The Bengals’ home crowd and Burrow’s clutch play could lead to a 31-24 victory, covering the spread. However, Jacksonville’s ability to keep games close (5-3 ATS as road underdogs in 2024) suggests they could make it a one-score game late.
Why This Game Matters
This Week 2 matchup is a critical early test for both teams. For the Bengals, a win solidifies their status as AFC North contenders and builds confidence before facing the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3. For the Jaguars, a road upset against a playoff-caliber team would prove they’re ready to defend their AFC South title. With the AFC playoff race heating up early, this game could have significant postseason implications.
How to Stay Updated
Fans can watch live on CBS or stream via FuboTV or Paramount+. The NFL app, ESPN, and team websites (www.bengals.com and www.jaguars.com) provide real-time updates. Social media platforms like X, with accounts like @NFL, @Bengals, and @Jaguars, will share highlights and reactions. Post-game analysis is available on CBS Sports, ESPN, or local outlets like WLWT in Cincinnati and News4Jax in Jacksonville.
The Bengals vs. Jaguars game on September 14, 2025, is a pivotal AFC clash showcasing two of the NFL’s brightest young quarterbacks. With Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence leading their teams, this Week 2 matchup at Paycor Stadium promises fireworks. Whether you’re securing tickets starting at $137, streaming on FuboTV, or joining the “Who Dey” chant in Cincinnati, this game is a must-watch for football fans. Don’t miss the excitement as the Bengals and Jaguars battle for early-season supremacy.
