Cincinnati Bengals and Washington Commanders Face Off in Preseason Game Broadcast on ESPN

What's Happening?

The Cincinnati Bengals and Washington Commanders are set to conclude the second week of the 2025 NFL preseason with a nationally televised game in Washington, D.C. Both teams are led by Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks from LSU. The Bengals, who played their starters extensively in their preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, saw quarterback Joe Burrow throw two touchdowns despite losing 34-27. Meanwhile, the Commanders struggled in their opening game against New England, losing 48-18, with quarterback Jayden Daniels not participating. Daniels is expected to make his first appearance of the season in the upcoming game. The Bengals vs. Commanders game will start at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, August 18, and will be broadcast on local TV stations in Cincinnati and Washington, D.C., as well as nationally on ESPN.

Why It's Important?

This preseason matchup is significant as it provides both teams an opportunity to evaluate their rosters and make necessary adjustments before the regular season. For the Bengals, the game is a chance to refine their strategies and improve their performance after a narrow loss to the Eagles. The Commanders, on the other hand, aim to bounce back from a heavy defeat against New England and assess the capabilities of their quarterback, Jayden Daniels. The game also serves as a platform for players to showcase their skills and secure their positions on the team. The national broadcast on ESPN highlights the interest in these teams and their potential impact in the upcoming NFL season.

What's Next?

Following this game, both teams will continue their preseason schedules, focusing on player development and team cohesion. The Bengals will look to build on their performance and address any weaknesses identified during the game. The Commanders will aim to integrate Jayden Daniels into their lineup effectively and improve their overall gameplay. Coaches and management will analyze the outcomes to make informed decisions regarding player selections and strategies for the regular season.