Super Bowl

The Absolute Worst Pro Sports Franchise

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That would be the Cincinnati Bengals, who not only suck in the NFL, but in the hearts and minds of their would-be fans. ESPN has used fan feedback to generate "The Ultimate Standings," rankings for teams in MLB, the NHL, NBA, and NFL. The traits include "bang for the buck" (revenue from fans divided by wins), fan relations, ownership, affordability, and more.

Out of 118 teams ranked, the Bengals came in dead last. What's interesting is that the Bengals are also recent recipients of one of the most profitable municipal leases in history, including a brand-new taxpayer-funded stadium from which all proceeds go into the teamowners' pockets. In other words, even with a horrible team and slumping ticket sales, the owners can still make money. Even the Cincinnati Enquirer, a ludicrously boosterish newspaper, is getting cynical.