CINCINNATI (WKRC) – The Bengals flew to Madrid on Tuesday night, giving players several days to adjust before Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons. Coach Zac Taylor said the schedule draws on lessons from Cincinnati’s 2019 trip to London, when the team traveled later in the week.
“This time we’re going on Tuesday,” Taylor said. “You’d like to be able to deal with the time change when you get there and not feel sluggish.”
Wednesday will focus on acclimating, followed by regular practices Thursday and Friday and a walkthrough Saturday at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Taylor said the overseas game also gives Cincinnati a chance to introduce the team to new fans. He praised the Bengals’ European supporters and said he hopes the trip helps the team build its following in Spain.
“We’re there to win. We’re there to get our fourth win in a row. We’re there to get to six and two. We’re there to beat the Falcons,” Taylor said. “That’s priority number one.”
The Bengals enter the game at 5-2 after beating Tennessee 43-36 in overtime. Taylor said he was not planning to seek out sightseeing during the trip. “If a restaurant hits me in the face, I’ll walk in it,” he said, adding that his focus is getting the team organized and ready to play.
The game is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 8, and a 9:30 a.m. kickoff Cincinnati time at Bernabéu Stadium.