Today’s game
Who: Bengals at Lions
When: 7:30 p.m.
TV: WKEF (Ch. 22)
Radio: WTUE-FM (104.7)
The grand unveiling in Cleveland is still more than four weeks away, but the Cincinnati Bengals undoubtedly will learn something about themselves tonight in their preseason opener on the road against the Detroit Lions.
On display will be their future — rookie quarterback Andy Dalton throwing to rookie wideout A.J. Green, who has been nothing short of dazzling thus far in training camp.
How much Dalton and the first-team offense will play is unclear. Coach Marvin Lewis did allow that they will play a little longer compared to other preseason openers, which could mean the entire first quarter.
Welcome to a new era, for better or worse, one without quarterback Carson Palmer (apparently retired after being told he won’t be traded) and colorful receiver Chad Ochocinco, now catching passes from Tom Brady with the New England Patriots.
About the Lions: All their draft picks seem to be hurt. Nick Fairley, a defensive tackle from Auburn, had surgery on his foot and is lost for a month. Running back Mikel Leshoure tore an Achilles' tendon and is out for the season. Receiver Titus Young hasn't practiced this month.
Notable: Preseason games in Detroit have not gone well for the Bengals. It's where running back Ki-Jana Carter got hurt in 1995 and where Kenny Irons suffered his career-ending injury in 2007. ... A good showing might elevate the Bengals in some minds. ESPN has them dead last in their power rankings released this week. ... The Lions are the Bengals' most frequent preseason opponent. Cincinnati leads the series 18-17.
Quotable: "I'm sure there will be nerves, but I'll try to be as calm as I can." — Bengals rookie quarterback Andy Dalton, their second-round draft pick from TCU in April.