The Cincinnati Bengals winning record this season is translating into higher sales at local stores, according to Kris Koch of Koch's Sporting Goods.
"The true Bengal fan has a lot of their paraphernalia already, but the band wagon fan doesn't have all their gear yet," said Koch.
Whether fans are true or jumping on the band wagon, Koch is glad they are happy and spending. "Probably 100 percent better. Yea, it's Bengal Day everyday here now."
The Bengals sit atop the AFC North in first place after their thrilling victory Sunday in Baltimore. It was the team's fourth straight win. All of which have been in dramatic fashion.
One shopper at his store in Downtown was Leslie Bernhardt of Indianapolis. She was in town on business and was searching to buy her kids some things, because they enjoy anything from the NFL. "We're really Colts fans (laughter) can I say that," said Bernhardt.
She found a Bengal tail that hangs around a belt strap, and a bandanna that reads, "Who Dey." She noted her kids are fans of a specific player. "Well they love OchoCinco."
Over at the Bengals Pro Shop at Paul Brown Stadium, there were people seeking their treasured garments, including recently signed linebacker Dan Skuta. He has been on the practice team until last week. He brought his grandparents to the Pro Shop so they could get some Bengals gear. His reason was good enough for them. "They babysat me for I don't know how many years at their house."
Regardless of whether it is a player, fan, or relative, vendors are pleased with the Bengals record because that drives up sales.
The Bengals next game is this Sunday at Paul Brown Stadium when they take on the Houston Texans at 1 p.m. As of Monday, tickets for the game are still available.
