Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals arrived in Philadelphia on Wednesday evening, gearing up for their preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night. The team‘s head coach, Zac Taylor, confirmed earlier in the week that Burrow, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, and other healthy starters are expected to participate in the game, aiming to gain valuable preseason experience before the regular season begins.
Burrow’s Playing Time and Bengals’ Preseason Strategy
Taylor detailed the game plan, indicating that Burrow and key starters would likely play through several series, possibly covering most of the first quarter. However, the coach emphasized that this game is not intended to be a major playtime opportunity for the starters.
“We don’t have this targeted as the biggest play time for our guys,” Taylor said. “We really picked Washington to be more of that. Another thing I hate to put in stone is that a couple of series, several series is what we’ll give those starters.”
— Zac Taylor, Head Coach
The Bengals have often struggled early in the regular season under Taylor, beginning with an 0–2 record in each of the past three years. After losing their first three games last season and reaching a 4-8 record, they rallied with five straight wins to close out the year. To avoid such slow starts, the team believes giving key players like Burrow extra preseason reps can improve readiness and performance.
Coach Taylor also suggested that Burrow would play additional snaps during the Bengals’ second preseason game against the Washington Commanders on August 18.
Philadelphia Eagles’ Approach to the Preseason Opener
Unlike the Bengals, the Eagles are expected to limit their starters’ time on the field during this game, resting most of their key players for the preseason opener. This contrast in approach highlights Cincinnati’s intent to use the game as a developmental opportunity for their primary roster members, including their quarterback.
Joe Burrow’s Previous Preseason Experience
Throughout his six NFL seasons, Burrow has seen limited preseason action, playing in only two preseason games. The Bengals have often held him out of preseason contests to reduce injury risk or manage his workload. Last year, he took 13 snaps in the preseason opener and only three in a 2021 preseason game. Burrow himself has acknowledged that preseason appearances during training camp help in fine-tuning specific skills ahead of the regular season, which supports the team’s decision to have him take the field more this year.
Broadcast Information for Bengals vs. Eagles Preseason Game
The Bengals will face the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Thursday, August 7, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. The game will be televised nationally on NFL Network and locally on NBC10 in Philadelphia. Viewers can also stream the game live via FuboTV.
Scott Graham will provide the play-by-play commentary, with Ross Tucker serving as color analyst. Sideline reports will be delivered by Dave Spadaro.
Game Details for Fans and Viewers
Date and Time: Thursday, August 7, 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Television: NFL Network, NBC10 (Philadelphia)
Live Streaming: FuboTV
Broadcast Team: Scott Graham (play-by-play), Ross Tucker (color analyst), Dave Spadaro (sideline reporter)