The Cincinnati Bengals, starting the 2024 NFL season with an 0-2 record, face a challenging path to the playoffs, with ESPN giving them a 43% chance of making it. Despite their slow start, which reflects a troubling trend under head coach Zac Taylor, the Bengals have experience in overcoming such beginnings, having made the playoffs after similar starts in previous seasons. However, historical data shows that only two teams have advanced to the postseason after starting 0-2 since 2020. The Bengals' next game against the Washington Commanders is crucial; a loss would significantly diminish their playoff hopes, as teams starting 0-3 have a bleak record of success. Bill Barnwell of ESPN noted that Cincinnati has the highest playoff chances among the nine winless teams this season and emphasizes the importance of upcoming games against lower-ranked opponents. As they navigate this rough patch, Bengals fans remain cautiously optimistic about a potential turnaround.