Bengals' 5-2 run hits Madrid as Burrow tours Prado before Falcons clash

The Cincinnati Bengals sit at 5-2 and enter a 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time matchup against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday with a critical divisional title on the line. The squad arrived in Madrid earlier than scheduled to manage the six-hour time difference. Coach Zac Taylor gave the group a full day off on Wednesday. This break allowed players to adjust to local time zones while visiting key Spanish landmarks.

Quarterback Joe Burrow spent his free time at the Museo del Prado. He told reporters on Friday that the museum visit was cool. Burrow said he had been anticipating the trip since the league confirmed the Madrid schedule in May. He described the experience as a dream come true. He admitted he usually enjoys walking through unfamiliar streets without recognition. However, a group of American students studying abroad spotted him and surprised him. Burrow noted that staying incognito is still possible but not guaranteed.

Packing for the trip was a delegated task for Burrow. He handed the responsibility to his mother and his assistant, Kyle Smith. Burrow called packing his least favorite task in the world. He ensured he had the right fit for Sunday without the usual stress. He is considering more art gallery visits on Friday evening, though he has not finalized those plans.

Wide receiver Tee Higgins is on his first trip to Europe. He called the experience surreal. Bringing his family to the continent for the first time made the visit even more meaningful to him. Higgins leads the Bengals with 43 catches for 726 yards. That total is tied for the league lead with Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He is averaging over 100 receiving yards per game this season.

Fellow receiver Ja'Marr Chase discussed his chemistry with Higgins. Chase said it is fun working with his teammate and that they make each other better. Chase admitted he was initially annoyed by local food options. He joked about missing his personal chef but said he is now managing well.

Right tackle Amarius Mims visited the Real Casa de Correos. He walked around the city with the offensive line. Mims struggled with the jet lag. He woke up in the middle of the night to watch a Philadelphia 76ers game before sleeping again. He finally woke up for the day at 7:30 a.m. local time. During his walks, he met police officers and a Bengals fan. Cincinnati supporters have filled the city, creating a home-like atmosphere.

The Bengals are listed as the visiting team in Sunday's contest. However, the large number of Cincinnati fans in Madrid may make the game feel less like a home contest for Atlanta. A victory over the Falcons would set up a Week 10 showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers. First place in the AFC North is at stake in that matchup. The team plans to finalize their preparation and aim for a win to cap off their international experience.