Bengals: The 3 best neutral site options for the AFC Championship Game

The NFL is expected to move forward with an AFC playoff format that leaves the door open for a neutral site for the AFC Championship Game. The potential combinations for a neutral site game include one involving the Cincinnati Bengals. In short, if the Bengals win and both the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs […]

Mauricio Rodriguez — Dallas Cowboys News Writer
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Cincinnati Bengals

The NFL is expected to move forward with an AFC playoff format that leaves the door open for a neutral site for the AFC Championship Game. The potential combinations for a neutral site game include one involving the Cincinnati Bengals.

In short, if the Bengals win and both the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs lose in Week 18 AND the Bengals and Chiefs advance to the AFC Championship Game, both teams would meet at a neutral site.

All other combinations surrounding the Bengals in the AFC Championship Game wouldn't include a neutral site game. For a complete guide, check out the chart below by NFL Research.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the site hasn't been determined yet. But here are the three best possibilities for the neutral site game. All three are in very neutral locations for the teams involved including the Bengals.

Quick note: Ford Field is immediately ruled out as it will be undergoing a change-out of its turf.

1. Allegiant Stadium

Capacity: 65,000

Dome: YES

Opened: 2020

The home of the Las Vegas Raiders has quickly become one of the best in the NFL and is positioned in a great city to draw fans. It has one of the best designs in the league and a great view of the Las Vegas Strip within the stadium.

2. SoFi Stadium

Capacity: 70,000

Dome: NO (partially closed)

Opened: 2020

The most expensive stadium in the NFL is a glimpse into the future of sports arenas. It's already hosted big-time events including last season's Super Bowl.

3. Mercedez-Benz Stadium

Capacity: 71,000

Domo: YES

Opened: 2017

The retractable roof is the main event of the home of the Atlanta Falcons. But it's also one of the best stadiums in the NFL right now. It also has a Super Bowl in its curriculum and is obviously well-equipped to host the AFC Championship Game.

Featured image via Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

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