CINCINNATI (WKRC) – As the Bengals prepare for their first home game of the season at Paycor Stadium, fans are being encouraged to “Open in Orange.”
Elizabeth Blackburn with the Bengals explained the significance of the color and what it means for the upcoming season.
“Orange is the color of energy, confidence, and optimism—everything we want to radiate as we kick off a season full of promise,” said Blackburn.
Head coach Zac Taylor is urging fans to arrive early and make the stadium loud.
“I would love to hear that, just week one. The rest of them you can tailgate a little longer. But for this first one, it would be awesome to send a message. And we want to start 2-0. That’s a collective effort from our players, coaches, and our fanbase,” said Taylor.
Fans arriving early will be treated to a revamped pregame program.
“We’ve got a whole new opening sequence for you in the jungle here; before the team runs out, you can see some new things that are pretty cool and exciting this year,” said Peyton Phillips with the Bengals.
Sunday’s game against the Jaguars will feature hometown favorite and longtime Bengal Sam Hubbard as the “Ruler of the Jungle.” Additionally, a new fan tool inside the stadium will capture crowd reactions. The Bengals have partnered with a company called Momento to use stadium-wide camera technology.
“You can visit a kiosk that will be over by AltaFiber. We’re getting on the north side of the stadium. You can get those printed out. Which I think is just really cool. It’ll capture that moment for you so that you can enjoy the key moments of the game, the touchdowns, and the big turnovers, and not have to worry about pulling out your phone,” said Phillips.
The “orange out” also supports a charitable cause, as September is Hunger Action Month. Purchasing a season shirt in the pro shop will support the Freestore Foodbank, highlighting orange as the color of hunger relief.