Cincinnati chili dogs are back in the spotlight, and this time the path gets tougher.
After rolling through Round 1 with one of the most lopsided wins in the Great American Tailgate challenge, the Queen City favorite has moved on to face Eastern Carolina pulled pork in Round 2. The matchup brings together two dishes with plenty of regional pride, but Bengals fans already made their presence felt in a big way the first time around.
The bracket challenge is a collaboration between USA TODAY and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, built around the foods that help define football culture in all 32 NFL cities. Cincinnati’s entry is now trying to keep that momentum going against a pulled pork contender that also advanced by a wide margin.
Fans who vote are doing more than helping Cincinnati move forward. Every valid vote also counts as an entry in a giveaway for a $1,000 Pro Football Hall of Fame merchandise gift card. The winner can use it on Hall of Fame apparel, collectibles, and memorabilia.
The contest is part of a broader celebration in Canton of the food identity of NFL cities, with tailgating traditions and local flavors taking center stage.
For Bengals fans, the message is simple: vote for the chili dogs and keep the Queen City rolling.
What to know about Great American Tailgate bracket challenge
No purchase is necessary to vote or enter the giveaway.
You must be 21 or older and a legal U.S. resident (excluding Hawaii and Puerto Rico).
Each fan can cast one vote per round, per day.
Every valid vote equals one entry into the giveaway for a $1,000 Pro Football Hall of Fame gift card.
Voting happens only on the SQWAD platform.
The Sponsor may disqualify votes or voters for fraud, duplicate accounts, or suspicious activity.
The food bracket winner receives recognition only - no prize.
The giveaway winner will be notified around August 10, 2026.
All disputes must be resolved through arbitration, as described in the official rules.
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