STWF Sports | CINCINNATI | Dec. 15, 2025 — The Cincinnati Bengals were frozen out on the field Sunday — and now they may be hearing from the league office. Following a 24-0 shutout loss to the Baltimore Ravens, the Bengals are facing scrutiny for a different kind of failure: a potential violation of NFL stadium policy after fans arrived at Paycor Stadium to find their seats still covered in snow.
What was supposed to be a crucial AFC North rematch quickly became a nightmarish scene, as spectators trudged through snow-filled aisles and were forced to clear off their own seats in frigid conditions. The temperature at kickoff dipped to 10 degrees with a wind chill of minus-1, making it the fifth-coldest game in Cincinnati history.
But freezing weather doesn’t excuse failing to meet league standards. According to NFL playing-field specifications — referenced by Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio — teams are required to remove snow and ice from all stadium areas before kickoff. That mandate covers not just the field and sidelines, but also the entire seating bowl, aisles, walkways, pedestrian ramps, and parking lots.
The Bengals clearly fell short.
“Snow and ice must be removed from the stadium before all games,” the policy reads. “Each home club is responsible for having a snow removal plan in place and ensuring equipment is available.”
The omission has put Cincinnati in direct violation of NFL rules, leaving the franchise vulnerable to fines or disciplinary action.
When asked to address the issue, a team spokesperson defended the organization’s efforts, saying:
“Seat aisles were prioritized and are in good shape. Seats are easily wiped off and ushers are equipped to help there.”
Fans weren’t buying it.
Cost-Cutting Accusations and Fan Backlash
With many empty seats expected in the freezing weather, some fans speculated that ownership simply didn’t find the cleanup worth the cost.
“This was strictly a business decision,” one fan posted on X. “The fine, if any, will be less than the cost to clear seats that will be empty anyway.”
Another added bluntly:
“Just another example of what a loser organization looks like.”
However, some supporters defended the logistical reality of clearing the stadium under such extreme weather conditions.
“Please explain how to do this in 5 degrees in a few hours,” one attendee wrote. “Buffalo has snow seats all the time.”
Others took a more humorous approach, with one fan joking:
“The snow in the cup holders was a nice touch — helped keep beverages cold.”
A Frigid Collapse on the Field
Unfortunately for Cincinnati, the conditions inside the stadium weren’t the only frozen elements — the offense never thawed.
After beating the Ravens 32-14 in Week 13, the Bengals were dominated in every phase on Sunday. Joe Burrow, still searching for rhythm after returning from turf toe, threw for 225 yards but also tossed two costly interceptions. The shutout marked one of the lowest points of a disappointing season in which Burrow has repeatedly admitted he’s trying to “find the fun” in football again.
Meanwhile, Lamar Jackson, battling through his own injury-laden campaign, was efficient and composed. The Ravens’ star completed 75% of his passes for 150 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception — enough to keep Baltimore’s postseason hopes intact.
What Comes Next?
The Bengals’ playoff hopes are now officially over, but the fallout from Sunday’s stadium misstep may only be beginning. The NFL is expected to review the incident, and potential penalties could follow.
For a franchise already dealing with on-field struggles, a public relations storm — and possible league discipline — is the last thing Cincinnati needed.
And as frustrated fans spent Sunday afternoon brushing snow off their seats, many wondered if this frigid chapter is a symptom of deeper issues in a season that continues to leave the Bengals out in the cold.
