Former NFL wide receiver Chad Ochocinco has outlined his ideal "storybook" Super Bowl matchup for the 2026 NFL season: a rematch between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Los Angeles Rams.
Ochocinco, who spent 10 of his 11 NFL seasons with the Bengals, expressed his desire for this specific Super Bowl LXI encounter at SoFi Stadium. This scenario mirrors the actual Super Bowl LVI matchup between these two teams.
He believes the Rams, with the reported return of defensive tackle Aaron Donald from retirement to join Myles Garrett on the defensive line, would be a formidable opponent. "I think everybody would have to get hurt for them to lose," Ochocinco stated, describing the Rams' roster as akin to a "Madden" video game team. He also noted quarterback Matthew Stafford's performance following an MVP 2025 season.
Despite the strength of the Rams, Ochocinco's loyalty remains with the Bengals. He highlighted quarterback Joe Burrow's vocal dissatisfaction with the team's performance in the previous season and his desire for reinforcements on both offense and defense. The Bengals have made moves to address these concerns by extending wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, retaining tight end Mike Gesicki, and bolstering the offensive line. Ochocinco also pointed to defensive acquisitions such as Jonathan Allen, Dexter Lawrence, and safety Bryan Cook.
"For my Bengals, it’s a put-up-or-shut-up year," Ochocinco said. He emphasized that with the team's management meeting Burrow's requests for talent, the onus is now on Burrow to stay healthy and deliver a Super Bowl title.
Ochocinco acknowledged the importance of Burrow's health, particularly after he played only eight games in the 2025 season due to injury. He also discussed the challenges opposing teams would face against the Rams' defense, featuring Donald and Garrett. "When you have players like that come upfield so hard, I’m thinking about quick game. The ball has to come out quick," he explained, suggesting strategies to counter their pass rush.
Ochocinco's comments came as he discussed his partnership with DraftKings. DraftKings is launching "DraftKings Gameday" on September 2, coinciding with the start of the NFL season and DraftKings Sports & Casino's availability in all 50 states. To celebrate, DraftKings is offering free gas at select gas stations in Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, and Detroit, while supplies last. The initiative aims to enhance the fan experience as the football season begins.