Football season is an exciting time in Cincinnati. Each year we cheer on our beloved Cincinnati Bengals, along with our favorite high school and college teams. The beginning of the season is always the best, as it is filled with excitement and anticipation of what may finally be "our year." And for Bengals fans, the season can be a stressful time of highs and lows as we hope, pray, and dream, for another shot at the Super Bowl. But no matter the outcome, Cincinnati football fans are sure to come out and continue to root, root, root for the home team (okay, wrong sport, but we couldn't resist!). Our city loves its sports, so it should be no surprise that Cincinnati football fans are the absolute best.

1. It all starts with high school.

It's a running joke in Cincinnati that when someone asks you which school you attended, they don't mean college, they mean high school. Well, high school football is part of what makes this true, as there are some fierce rivalries out there and many very good teams. And along with that comes the enthusiastic fans, cheering on their favorite high school team and instilling a love for one of Cincinnati's favorite sports.

2. We have a beautiful place to call home.

Paul Brown Stadium welcomed its team and fans for the first time in 2000 and has been impressive ever since. Its location is ideal along the river and now adjacent to parks and restaurants. There really isn't a bad seat in the house!

3. We eat enthusiasm for breakfast.

Whether you're at a game or just walking around our city, you'll find no shortage of enthusiasm for our Bengals. The pride for the team runs deep, even through losing seasons and scandals.

4. We have the best mascot.

Our beloved Who Dey is the perfect combination of fierce and friendly. He's a friend to every fan and doesn't stand for any bashing of our Bengals. He's also just plain cool.

5. We know how to tailgate.

You'll see a little bit of everything at a Bengal's tailgate! You're likely to see some crazy outfits, decked out buses and groups of fans cooking up some gourmet creations. But one thing each spot has in common? A genuine excitement for their team!

6. We have our own language.

Where else can you walk down the street and shout, "Who Dey!" at someone and they'll respond with the same, along with an enthusiastic high-five? There's nothing quite like being in the stadium and cheering on the Bengals with this traditional phrase and chant.

7. We're resilient.

In fact, if you look up the word "resilient" in the dictionary, there is probably a picture of a Bengal's fan right there next to the definition. Each season has its ups and downs, and when those downs happen, we regroup, plan our next tailgating party, and pick up a new orange and black scarf.

8. We have over 50 years of amazing football history in this town.

The Bengals celebrated their 50th season in 2019, which means Cincinnati has been crazy for football for over half a century! We've had our ups and downs, but we'll continue to love our team for the next 50 years, as well.

9. We're still hopeful.

Yes, it's been 50 years and no Superbowl ring. Yes, we've come awfully close a few times and it gets painful. But with each new season comes new hope. And true Bengals fans never lose hope.

Whatever your feelings about the Bengals, it's hard to deny that Cincinnati football fans are simply the best. Are you a diehard Bengals fan? Share your love for our team in the comments! Who Dey!

For more things that make Ohioans the quirky, delightful people that we are, be sure to check out this article: 12 Extremely Weird Things Only People From Ohio Do. We promise, you'll be nodding your head in agreement!