NFL Network comes to Bengals training camp today, for a two-hour (3-5 p.m.) nationally televised special. Bengals radio voices Dan Hoard and Dave Lapham will be in the center of the operation, offering commentary and practice analysis. The centerpiece of the broadcast
will be one hour of practice (estimated 3:10-4:10 p.m.) covered as if it were a network game. Head coach Marvin Lewis has coordinated with producers to map a plan that will give fans the best possible overall look at the multiple team activities that comprise a full practice. NFLN will cover the action with three cameras, so viewers will be able to move from drill-to-drill from the comfort of their armchairs.
"This is one of the opportunities we like to create for some extra buzz in training camp," Lewis said. "Another example will be the joint practices we have here with the Giants (Aug. 11-12). Camp is a tough daily haul for the players, and we need that energy every day. Events like this help break up the routine."
The Bengals, one of only four NFL teams to reach the playoffs each of the last four years, are scheduled for five nationally televised games this season, one in preseason and four in the regular season. But their first prolonged national exposure comes today.
"It's great," said QB Andy Dalton. "It's not a game, but it's a chance to show off at our best for a big audience. I think all the guys are looking forward to it."
After the practice special, NFLN's Stacey Dales will have interviews with Lewis, Dalton and WR A.J. Green during the network's Inside Training Camp and Total Access programming.
The two-hour special will re-air at 9 p.m. tonight and at 1 a.m. and 4 a.m. tomorrow.
