09/11/2026
It’s fitting to “kick off” this update of Cincinnati People just ahead of the Cincinnati Bengals first game of the season. (See it all at cincypeople.com!)
It will surprise no one that the steadfast, passionate, and endlessly optimistic Bengals fans are a generous bunch. Perhaps that generosity is most evident in the story of “Bengal” Jim Foster (Bengal Jim's "Before the Roar" Tailgate Experience), who turned his devotion to the team into an impressive tailgate that has raised money for more than 80 local charities over the years. We also take a look at how charitable the local fanbase is compared to other NFL cities, guided by foundations created by some Bengals greats.
An undisputed Bengal GOAT is Kenny Anderson, who beyond all comprehension, is not in the NFL Hall of Fame. We don’t need to tell you he belongs in Canton, but in case you need to convince someone else, we make a pretty strong case for why he deserves to be in the Class of 2027.
Curious to know more about WhoDey Nation? We offer a detailed look at the number, interests and spending habits of Bengals’ fans. Along with football, it turns out they also love live music, restaurants in Over-the-Rhine, and Broadway in Cincinnati shows. (And Skyline Chili, of course.)
Because this fanbase loves to travel, we offer a guide to next week’s match-up in Visit Houston. From brisket to the Space Center, fans can take an everything-is-bigger-in-Texas road trip to experience great football, multiple art museums, authentic Tex-Mex, and unpretentious neighborhood bars.
Whether you’re heading to The Banks to pregame before going to Paycor, watching from your neighborhood bar, or sitting at home in your lucky spot, know that more than a million other local Bengals’ fans are with you spirit.
Can I get a “WHODEY”?
