Bengals fans donating to the Blake Bortles Foundation as thanks for ousting rival Steelers
In a great example of paying it forward – and one of the best sports trends in recent memory – Cincinnati Bengals fans have been donating to The Blake Bortles Foundation as thanks for knocking their rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, out of the playoffs.
Earlier this month, Buffalo Bills fans began donating to the foundation of Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton to thank him for beating the Ravens, which led to the Bills gaining their first playoff berth since 1999. Over $350,000 was given to the AJD Foundation.
Bengals fans haven’t quite matched that yet, but any amount is welcomed by Bortles and his BB5 Foundation.
The movement was started by Cincinnati radio host Mo Egger, who encouraged listeners and those who follow him on social media to pay it forward, and also as a way to stick it to Steelers fans after their team was dispatched by the Jaguars.
As of midday Tuesday, more than 100 fans had donated nearly $5,000.
“Fans are at the core of the football experience and it’s truly exciting and rewarding when they band together, regardless of the team they cheer for, to make a positive impact in the lives of others,” Bortles said in a statement. “I greatly appreciate the support displayed by Bengals fans and they should know their support will make a difference.”
According to its website, the BB5 Foundation focuses on two groups: children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and first responders. BB5 partners with organizations in Jacksonville and Bortles’ hometown, Oviedo, Florida.
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