Cincinnati at Hard Rock, 1:00 PM on FOX. Here's what I want to see and what I'm bringing.
It's Wednesday and I've already checked the weather twice. That's how I know I'm not as beat down as an 0-4 fan is supposed to be. Home game Sunday. Cincinnati. One o'clock. I've had worse weeks to look forward to.
What I want to see
I'm keeping the list short this time, because long lists are how you get your feelings hurt.
A fast start. I want this crowd in it early, and a crowd needs a reason. Give us one in the first quarter and we'll carry our end of it for the other three.
A fourth quarter with something on the line. We had one in Minnesota and it was the most alive I've felt all season. I want that again, with a different ending and a full building around me.
And a win. I'm done pretending I'd be happy with a good effort. I've been happy with effort. I'd like to try being happy with the score.
A building doesn't fill up at 0-4 by accident. We show up because that's the job.
What I'm bringing
Extra everything. Extra water, extra food, an extra chair for whoever shows up without one. If the season hasn't gone how you wanted and you've been thinking about skipping this one, don't. Come find the tailgate. The first win of a year is the one you remember, and you'll want to say you were there for it. Nobody tells the story of the win they heard about.
After Sunday
It's the bye. Either we get two weeks to enjoy one, or two weeks to stew. I know which one I'm voting for. Check the game day guide if it's your first time at Hard Rock, check the watch party list if you can't make it, and I'll have a take up Monday either way. Fins up.