Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon. Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Joe Mixon makes major statement about 'big dog' Bengals

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated 12/31/22

Joe Mixon is sending a message to the rest of the NFL about the Cincinnati Bengals’ status.

Mixon said Saturday that the rest of the league needs to know that the Bengals are the “big dog of the AFC” and that the road to the Super Bowl goes through them.

Joe Mixon: What people need to know and understand is we the big dog of the AFC. That’s just what is. For anything to happen, it has to go through us.

— Jay Morrison (@JayMorrisonATH) December 31, 2022

Some might take issue with Mixon’s characterization, particularly fans of the Kansas City Chiefs or Buffalo Bills. The reality, and what Mixon may be leaning on, is that the Bengals are the reigning AFC champions. From his perspective, it is only fair if the Bengals act like it.

The Bengals have been backing Mixon up on the field. They have won seven straight games and will have the opportunity to deliver a statement win Monday against the Bills. They have been readily feeding on perceived slights along the way, so the team may well be embracing Mixon’s mindset here.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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