Public Outcry Over Schedule Challenges

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has openly criticized the team’s 2025 NFL Schedule, emphasizing two major concerns during a recent press conference: repetitive prime-time matchups against the Baltimore Ravens and the absence of international games despite his efforts to boost the NFL’s global presence.

The Prime-Time Ravens Routine

A Predictable Pattern

For the fourth consecutive year, the Bengals face a Thursday Night game against the Ravens in Baltimore. Burrow called this scheduling "predictable and unfair," urging officials to consider hosting one of these games in Cincinnati: “Maybe we can get one of those in Cincinnati next year. Please.”

League Response

NFL Vice President Mike North acknowledged the concern, stating, “It’s fair,” and admitted the need for adjustments to long-term scheduling patterns. He specifically addressed the Week 13 Thanksgiving game, noting the challenging travel demands of playing in Denver on Sunday before flying to Baltimore for a Thursday game: “If I could wave a magic wand, I’d fix that.”

Missed Global Opportunities

Advocacy for International Expansion

Burrow criticized the lack of international games for the Bengals, despite his role in promoting the NFL abroad through Netflix’s Quarterback docuseries. He stated, “To not have a stage like that is a little disappointing,” referencing the league’s plans to expand international matches to up to 16 games annually.

Additional Schedule Challenges

• 7 matchups against 2024 playoff teams, with 6 on the road
• A tough stretch from Weeks 3–7 against Vikings, Broncos, Packers, and Steelers
• Despite the shortest travel distance (8,753 total miles) among NFL teams, a heavy road workload and prime-time demands strain team endurance

A Call for Scheduling Equity

Burrow’s frustrations reflect broader player and coach concerns about scheduling fairness. While the Bengals’ success merits prime-time slots, recurring Ravens matchups and limited global exposure raise questions about league priorities. North admitted, “Everybody is just a little disappointed in the schedule makers,” suggesting Burrow’s advocacy for diversity and equity in scheduling may drive future changes.

Looking Ahead

Bengals fans now prepare for another Thanksgiving showdown in Baltimore. Burrow’s public appeals highlight the need for a more balanced approach, setting the stage for potential schedule reforms ahead of the 2026 season.

Keywords: Joe Burrow 2025 NFL Schedule Baltimore Ravens Cincinnati Bengals International Games