Sam Hubbard, the injured captain of the Bengals, and head coach Zac Taylor are expected to play in Sunday’s regular-season finale at Paycor Stadium (1 p.m., Cincinnati’s Local 12).
“Winning this game by any means necessary is our top priority. “However that looks is how it looks,” Taylor remarked on Monday while outlining the 8-8 Bengals’ strategy against the fifth-seeded Browns, an 11-5 team. “The fans that have continued to support us and cheer for this team and put their heart and soul into supporting us, get a chance to watch us play hard in a home game and find a way to win.”
It’s the first game in the past two years that had no bearing on their playoff seeding or bid. Kevin Stefanski, the head coach of the Browns, did not announce his starting lineup on Monday.
“You sitting here is encouraging. After winning the AFC North the week prior, Taylor, who sat the majority of his regulars in the 2021 championship game in Cleveland, stated, “You’re obviously out of playoff contention.”
However, after looking over the roster, you decide, “Well, is there anybody you’re worried about right now?” I have no doubt that the guys on our roster will give it their all throughout practice and the game this week. We therefore have a fantastic plan. We’re exerting every effort to triumph in this match and round off the season well.”
He is referring to players such as Hubbard, a six-year veteran and the team’s face who stated in the postgame on Sunday that he requires unknown offseason surgery. However, he’s leaving.
“I didn’t give it much thought. I’m having fun; I made it this far. I’m having a great year-end. Hubbard declared on Monday that he wouldn’t have it any other way. “I wouldn’t abandon my guys.” I adore being outside. I’m going to be with them today, I told them.”
Hubbard is reflecting on the Bengals’ first division victory in 2019, their second season in the league, when they defeated the Browns in the season finale at Paycor.
Alternatively, some may recall a different season when they had a backup quarterback. As a pinch-hitter for Carson Palmer, Ryan Fitzpatrick worked out a 4-31 finish to the 2008 campaign, winning at Cleveland to go 1-5 in the division before returning home to defeat Kansas City to cap off the season and secure the 2009 AFC North championship.
