Cincinnati Bengals-Pittsburgh Steelers 2016 Playoff Thread

[WVRed]

I know there's the discussion thread, but I have a feeling this is one that will need to be archived.

Ten years since Kimo rolled Palmers leg. Sheer hatred between these teams and the most favored Bengals team I can ever remember.

I think the Bengals win 27-23. Rain and no running threat by the Steelers slow down their offense.

[WrongVerb]

Here's the issue with the running game, though. Running has less to do with the back and more to do with the o-line. Also Toussant has fresh legs. Whether this means the loss of Williams won't be as detrimental as we think, I don't know.

That said, I still think the Bengals are going to win tonight. It just feels right.

[Raisor]

Here's the issue with the running game, though. Running has less to do with the back and more to do with the o-line. Also Toussant has fresh legs. Whether this means the loss of Williams won't be as detrimental as we think, I don't know.

That said, I still think the Bengals are going to win tonight. It just feels right.

Aren't you a Niners fan?

;)

[Redsfaithful]

I think people have gone overboard on the concept of replacement level running backs. Maybe it's the vision component that separates the good from the bad. I think there will be a large drop off in performance tonight from the Steelers offense. Ben is going to have to throw 50+ times.

[SteelSD]

I think people have gone overboard on the concept of replacement level running backs.

I agree. Williams was signed to help prevent the situation Pittsburgh was in last season after losing Bell. I don't expect Cinci to have any respect for the Steelers' run game, and they probably shouldn't.

Should be a good game regardless. Just hope it's clean and drama-free.

[WrongVerb]

Aren't you a Niners fan?

;)

Oh hell no! I think the Bengals actually want to win a Championship. :D

[schmidty622]

Steelers 31. Bengals 17. I'm not looking forward to watching Brian Hoyer play twice today but I think our Brian at least puts some points up on the Steelers D.

[WrongVerb]

Steelers 31. Bengals 17. I'm not looking forward to watching Brian Hoyer play twice today but I think our Brian at least puts some points up on the Steelers D.

When has McCarron ever looked like Hoyer looks today? AJ has had issues reading zone coverage, but he's not an idiot and I have no doubt the coaches have been working with him to shore up that weakness. Going against man coverage, AJ has an arm that just picks that apart.

[schmidty622]

When has McCarron ever looked like Hoyer looks today? AJ has had issues reading zone coverage, but he's not an idiot and I have no doubt the coaches have been working with him to shore up that weakness. Going against man coverage, AJ has an arm that just picks that apart.

When has AJ ever started a playoff game, at night, against the Steelers? Do you think maybe the Steelers coaches have also been working on things since the last time they saw McCarron?

I wish I had your optimism! I guess I just like to be prepared for failure so I'm not disappointed.

[WVRed]

When has AJ ever started a playoff game, at night, against the Steelers? Do you think maybe the Steelers coaches have also been working on things since the last time they saw McCarron?

I wish I had your optimism! I guess I just like to be prepared for failure so I'm not disappointed.

To be fair, McCarron has had big game experience in college. So there's that.

[The Operator]

Bengals will start the game on defense and have the ball coming out of halftime.

[The Operator]

3 and out!

[The Operator]

Really Whit? False start already?

[wolfboy]

Really Whit? False start already?

Whit false start and Hill dancing around in the backfield instead of running over guys.

[The Operator]

Well they've already managed to give the practice squad guy a 9 yard rush. Hope that doesn't continue.

[The Operator]

Alright, good stop.

[The Operator]

Kick catch interefernce, nice! I'll take the 15 yards.

[WrongVerb]

All these early screens by PIT are setting up something. But, I love what I'm seeing from the defense so far.

[The Operator]

Whitworth false start AGAIN. Ugh.

[Stray]

The lower scoring this game is the better for us.

[WrongVerb]

Whitworth false start AGAIN. Ugh.

Harrison flagged for trying to bait Whit. Bengals starting to move the ball a bit. Defense continues to be pretty stout. The out pass to Jones is McCarron's bread and butter. Watch them to for more of that next drive.

[The Operator]

Second time they've been gashed for 9 yards by the practice squad back,

[The Operator]

Lol here comes a TD drive for Pittsburgh.

[The Operator]

And the extra cirricular circus begins!

[Joseph]

Pittsburgh getting under the Bengals skin. This might be the telling series of the game.

[The Operator]

Steelers running the ball any way they want right now.

[WrongVerb]

So much for my comments about the defense. UGH!

[The Operator]

50 yards rushing in the 1st quarter for Pittsburgh. Lol

[BuckeyeRed27]

50 yards rushing in the 1st quarter for Pittsburgh. Lol

Yeah have to stop that. If they can run, we are screwed.

[Stray]

We're playing coverage so they have the numbers to run. I wouldn't worry about changing up tho since Pittsburgh isn't gonna do this all game. As soon as we stack the box Pitt will start taking shots.

[WrongVerb]

Second time they've been gashed for 9 yards by the practice squad back,

It's not the back. It's the o-line.

[Stray]

It's not the back. It's the o-line.

meh, we're playing to stop their passing game. as long as it's tied or close, pitt running more than pitt's passing is better for us.

[WrongVerb]

Steelers running out of the shotgun. When it's time, Pittsburgh is going to cut loose.

SACK!!!

[The Operator]

Big Ben? Big sack!

Great timing.

But crap now Nelson is hurt.

[WrongVerb]

Nelson leg injury doesn't look good.

Derron Smith can play, though.

[Stray]

ben never saw that blitz presnap. PG with a solid gameplan so far.

[The Operator]

Huuuuge stop there but man I hope Nelson isn't seriously hurt.

[Stray]

McCarron has to be smart here. Not the time to take any chances.

[The Operator]

Looks like Nelson may be out for the game.

[WrongVerb]

Huuuuge stop there but man I hope Nelson isn't seriously hurt.

Doesn't look good.

[The Operator]

McCarron barely avoided another William Gay pick 6.

[WrongVerb]

At this point I think Hill needs to see the bench for the rest of the game. He's just not the beast he was last season for whatever reason.

(I think he's been guarding an injury [ribs?] all season.)

[The Operator]

Nice punt from Huber but we're definitely losing the field position battle overall.

[RedEye]

The running game on both sides of the ball is not looking promising.

[WrongVerb]

Nice punt from Huber but we're definitely losing the field position battle overall.

Need a turnover here.

[The Operator]

At this point I think Hill needs to see the bench for the rest of the game. He's just not the beast he was last season for whatever reason.

(I think he's been guarding an injury [ribs?] all season.)Agreed. Something has to be wrong there.

You don't go from premiere running back to garbage (or well, garbage for a high number of the snaps you're in on) for no reason.

[RedEye]

Steelers running out of the shotgun. When it's time, Pittsburgh is going to cut loose.

SACK!!!

Yeah. They are just biding their time. I have a bad feeling about this.

[Stray]

Love the way this game is playing out so far. Pitt's gonna put up some points before the half but our defense is playing well.

Gotta get some field position and get a TD before half.

[RedEye]

Love the way this game is playing out so far. Pitt's gonna put up some points before the half but our defense is playing well.

Gotta get some field position and get a TD before half.

Your optimism is admirable. Love is a strong word. I would love it if the Bengals were up 21-0.

[WrongVerb]

Good 3 and out for the Bengals D there. (as if there's such thing as a bad 3 and out for a defense)

[Stray]

Your optimism is admirable. Love is a strong word. I would love it if the Bengals were up 21-0.

The worry was Pitt's offense getting it rolling and McCarron having to win a shootout.

If this game is a slugfest their defense is likely to break down before ours.

But yea I'd love to be up 21-0 too haha

[RedEye]

Good 3 and out for the Bengals D there. (as if there's such thing as a bad 3 and out for a defense)

Well, when you lose a Pro Bowl safety, that's a "bad" good play.

[The Operator]

Fumbles on back to back plays. Lol the offense looks great.

[Stray]

cmon man hold onto the ball

[RedEye]

Fumbles on back to back plays. Lol the offense looks great.

Looks like the rain is taking a toll now. Big Ben looked like he lost his grip on that 3rd down throw as well. At least the Bengals recovered...

[The Operator]

Great job Peko! Completely erase a huge sack with a STUPID unsportsmanlike penalty!

[WrongVerb]

Peko with a moronic decision.

Bengals fumble recovery!!!

[The Operator]

Fumble Recovery!!!!!! Oh yea!!

[WrongVerb]

Great job Peko! Completely erase a huge sack with a STUPID unsportsmanlike penalty!

Yeah, no way they're not going to flag a guy running onto the field from the bench to do that. Idiot cannot do that!

[RedEye]

Still can't complain about the D. They came to play. Now stay cool and SCORE.

[The Operator]

Why is Jeremy Hill on the field? He's useless right now.

[RedEye]

Entire O is useless right now.

[The Operator]

Awful awful awful pass McCarron. INT

[RedEye]

Good lord that's not what we wanted.

[WrongVerb]

Awful awful awful pass McCarron. INT

First time he's tried to force things. Not good if that becomes a trend.

[RedEye]

First time he's tried to force things. Not good if that becomes a trend.

I doubt it will. He's been a conservative passer his whole career.

[Reds Freak]

Why is Jeremy Hill on the field? He's useless right now.

What do you want Hill to do? He's getting hit in the backfield.

[Stray]

Pretty much exactly what McCarron couldn't do. We have a field position slugfest in the rain. Punting isn't terrible.

[The Operator]

Here comes the Steeler passing game.

[RedEye]

What do you want Hill to do? He's getting hit in the backfield.

It's true. But he just doesn't have that shiftiness he had last season. He used to be able to turn plays into gains even when they hit him early.

[The Operator]

Not a bad result to hold them to a FG there. Now let's drive down for a tying FG and come out of halftime with the ball and some adjustments.

[Reds Freak]

It's true. But he just doesn't have that shiftiness he had last season. He used to be able to turn plays into gains even when they hit him early.

Agreed.

[Stray]

McCarron threw a pick and we gave up 3 points. I'll take it.

We gotta put a drive together tho. Their secondary is awful, and in the rain our receivers should have an even bigger advantage.

I'd prolly send Pacman back to return this kick too.

[The Operator]

It's true. But he just doesn't have that shiftiness he had last season. He used to be able to turn plays into gains even when they hit him early.Right, he's not making plays out of nothing like he did last year.

I don't understand why they aren't giving Gio some looks.

[RedEye]

People were talking about the rain being an advantage for Cincy, but not about how it would affect McCarron. He shredded this D the last time he faced them although he made some mistakes. Not so this evening.

[Stray]

We get the ball to start the 2nd half. Get some points on this drive.

[Joseph]

My my my.

[The Operator]

That was terrible. 3 and out, giving the Steelers plenty of time to add to their lead before halftime.

UUUGGGHHH!!!!!!

[Dom Heffner]

They are going to give them another score here.

[RedEye]

That 3rd down throw looked like Dalton circa 2013. Lucky Green didn't get hurt.

[Stray]

Well the good news is McCarron has been a disaster this half and it's only 3-0. We can't win with the way he's playing tho...Pitt's run defense is too good.

[schmidty622]

Bengals is as Bengals does.

[wolfboy]

That 3rd down throw looked like Dalton circa 2013.

It's raining...a lot. And he's wearing gloves for probably the first time ever. Ben has sailed a few as well.

[Stray]

Ben is due to throw one at a Bengal.

[RedEye]

Bengals is as Bengals does.

Not even sure what this means. And I've been following them for 35 years.

[RedEye]

It's raining...a lot. And he's wearing gloves for probably the first time ever. Ben has sailed a few as well.

I wasn't judging him for it... [emoji6]

[Stray]

What constitutes roughing and running into the kicker will always be a mystery to me. Either a punter is supposed to have a clear landing space or not. They're so inconsistent with how they call them.

[WVRed]

So how was that not running into the kicker?

[schmidty622]

Not even sure what this means. And I've been following them for 35 years.

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=stupid+is+as+stupid+does

[RedEye]

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=stupid+is+as+stupid+does

No, I know the expression. I just think they've had a lot of different teams in that time.

[The Operator]

Looks like Dre is in some pain.

[schmidty622]

No, I know the expression.

Then you know the Bengals!

[RedEye]

Secondary now in trouble. Second half could be ugly.

[The Operator]

So how was that not running into the kicker?Because The Steelers did it.

[RedEye]

Because The Steelers did it.

Seriously. The refs just quake at the sight of their uniforms.

[WrongVerb]

What constitutes roughing and running into the kicker will always be a mystery to me. Either a punter is supposed to have a clear landing space or not. They're so inconsistent with how they call them.

This. Announcers didn't pick up on it and didn't even give a replay. No clue why that wasn't called.

[schmidty622]

Secondary now in trouble. Second half could be ugly.

First half was ugly. Second half may be a disaster.

[WrongVerb]

Not sure if losing Dre is a negative or positive.

[WrongVerb]

Shoulder to chest. WTF?

[The Operator]

Sean Williams blows up Wheaton but gets flagged for it. Pittsburgh would get away with that.

[RedEye]

First half getting uglier

[Stray]

That was a textbook hit. Keep hitting em like that.

- - - Updated - - -


Sean Williams blows up Wheaton but gets flagged for it. Pittsburgh would get away with that.

They already got away with it with a hit on Eifert.

[Dom Heffner]

I don't know why I bother with this team...

Better talent, always come up short.

[Stray]

Gotta get a stop and hold em to a fg.

[Ibleedblue]

Feel like I'm watching the same horrible movie for the 100th time. Nothing going the Bengals way, offense can't move the ball to save their lives, refs not calling obvious stuff on Pitt, Cincy being flagged for seemingly legal hits. And as I type this they blow an easy INT...

[Stray]

And there was one of the ones Ben gives you. And we dropped it. That's a 3 point drop.

[Dom Heffner]

Catch the ball, there, Billups...

[RedEye]

I don't know why I bother with this team...

Better talent, always come up short.

So many fans like you. Myself included about 50% of the time.

Rey channeling Billups there.

[The Operator]

Well, they're only gonna be down a touchdown but with this offense it feels like they're down about 3 or 4 of them.

[Dom Heffner]

And there was one of the ones Ben gives you. And we dropped it. That's a 3 point drop.

It just is never ever ever going to go our way.

[ScotlandRed]

Rey HAS to catch that ball

[schmidty622]

So many fans like you. Myself included about 50% of the time.

Rey channeling Billups there.

And you don't understand 'Bengals is as Bengals does???'

[RedEye]

Well, they're only gonna be down a touchdown but with this offense it feels like they're down about 3 or 4 of them.

If the rain lets up a bit, they have a shot. They just need to play to win in the second half. Don't go down without a fight. Leave it on the field.

[The Operator]

Hey, did you guys know The Bengals have had 2nd half problems in the playoffs? Thank God these folks at CBS are here to give us information like this!

[Dom Heffner]

Feel like I'm watching the same horrible movie for the 100th time. Nothing going the Bengals way, offense can't move the ball to save their lives, refs not calling obvious stuff on Pitt, Cincy being flagged for seemingly legal hits. And as I type this they blow an easy INT...

Even Boomer Esiason couldn't muster a touchdown in the Super Bowl. It's unreal.

[RedEye]

And you don't understand 'Bengals is as Bengals does???'

I do. I am in denial.

[Joseph]

I don't know what anyone else thinks, but it's got a familiar vibe to it.

[Stray]

6-0 is an absolute win with how terrible our offense and McCarron have played.

But he has to be better in the 2nd half or it doesn't matter.

[Dom Heffner]

Hey, did you guys know The Bengals have had 2nd half problems in the playoffs? Thank God these folks at CBS are here to give us information like this!

You know logically you are right but it is clockwork with this team.

[Stray]

Hey, did you guys know The Bengals have had 2nd half problems in the playoffs? Thank God these folks at CBS are here to give us information like this!

The offense cannot play worse in the 2nd half than they did in the 1st half, so we got that going for us lol.

[schmidty622]

I'm praying to AJ's chest tattoo for the second half. There has to be something in there that is good luck!

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/378800000800624784/1588f8fd43fa9f1ffb905892fe213f7e_400x400.jpeg

[RedEye]

6-0 is an absolute win with how terrible our offense and McCarron have played.

But he has to be better in the 2nd half or it doesn't matter.

The D can't be expected to do that much more here.

[Dom Heffner]

I don't know what the Brown family did to the Gods but they made them mad somewhere.

- - - Updated - - -


The D can't be expected to do that much more here.

Except catch a ball thrown right to you.

And not drill people in the helmet.

[RedEye]

The offense cannot play worse in the 2nd half than they did in the 1st half, so we got that going for us lol.

Well, they could have actually turned over the fumbles. That would have been worse.

[Stray]

Since we played awful and are still in a 1 score game this goes one of two ways.

Pitt figures it out and gets it rolling to clobber us in the 2nd half
or
We come back and win a game Pitt shoulda put away in the 1st half

We've won and lost games like this on both sides before.

[RedEye]

Except catch a ball thrown right to you.

And not drill people in the helmet.

They held a great O to 6 points and bailed out an anemic O several times. That should be enough. I'm just saying they aren't the problem.

[schmidty622]

Since we played awful and are still in a 1 score game this goes one of two ways.

Pitt figures it out and gets it rolling to clobber us in the 2nd half
or
We come back and win a game Pitt shoulda put away in the 1st half

We've won and lost games like this on both sides before.

0-13 when trailing at any point in the game in the playoffs... Might be time to hit the showers.

[Stray]

Score a TD on the opening drive of the 2nd half and then let the rains come and stay for the rest of the game.

[The Operator]

Except catch a ball thrown right to you.

And not drill people in the helmet.Dropping the INT was awful but that penalty was garbage. Pittsburgh blows guys up like that every single game and nary a flag gets thrown.

[RedEye]

0-13 when trailing at any point in the game in the playoffs... Might be time to hit the showers.

Thinking of doing that myself.

[Dom Heffner]

They held a great O to 6 points and bailed out an anemic O several times. That should be enough. I'm just saying they aren't the problem.

You catch the ball.

In spite of how great you're playing.

It's the difference between winning and losing.

[RedEye]

Score a TD on the opening drive of the 2nd half and then let the rains come and stay for the rest of the game.

Maybe put Sanu in at QB?

[Stray]

0-13 when trailing at any point in the game in the playoffs... Might be time to hit the showers.

We're a TD from leading the game. I'm not too concerned about stats like that, just that Hue and McCarron figure something out in the 2nd half.

Pittsburgh's secondary is seriously awful, only ones off the top of my head that are worse are NO and the Giants. There's no reason we can't hit some big plays.

[RedEye]

You catch the ball.

In spite of how great you're playing.

It's the difference between winning and losing.

Sure. But if they lose I still don't blame the D.

[Playadlc]

Hate being that guy, but no chance. None.

[Stray]

Maybe put Sanu in at QB?

I bet we'll see it. Wouldn't be surprised if he throws either.

[RedEye]

We're a TD from leading the game. I'm not too concerned about stats like that, just that Hue and McCarron figure something out in the 2nd half.

Pittsburgh's secondary is seriously awful, only ones off the top of my head that are worse are NO and the Giants. There's no reason we can't hit some big plays.

Gonna be hard if they can't run the ball though. That's what sets up those long passes.

[schmidty622]

We're a TD from leading the game. I'm not too concerned about stats like that, just that Hue and McCarron figure something out in the 2nd half.

Pittsburgh's secondary is seriously awful, only ones off the top of my head that are worse are NO and the Giants. There's no reason we can't hit some big plays.

Ok, well, here's to second half success!

[Stray]

Gonna be hard if they can't run the ball though. That's what sets up those long passes.

Blake and Gay are terrible. Our dudes can beat em regardless. Gotta get McCarron a little more time tho.

[WrongVerb]

0-13 when trailing at any point in the game in the playoffs... Might be time to hit the showers.

Welcome to the gambler's fallacy.

- - - Updated - - -


Blake and Gay are terrible. Our dudes can beat em regardless. Gotta get McCarron a little more time tho.

Hill should be the blocking back. Bernard should be the only runner in the 2nd half.

[wolfboy]

The offense cannot play worse in the 2nd half than they did in the 1st half, so we got that going for us lol.

Sure it could. Only 3pts off of turnovers in the first half.

[Stray]

Had to crack open some beers for the 2nd half. Figure they'll help no matter how this one plays out.

[Dom Heffner]

If this is what we got, goodnight.

[The Operator]

Hill! Finally busts loose for a big gainer!

[Stray]

Hill!

[schmidty622]

Welcome to the gambler's fallacy.

Welcome to Cincinnati sports!

[The Operator]

OMG you've gotta be kidding me. Just gotta be kidding me.

[RedEye]

Oh my god

[Joseph]

The Bengals never change.

[WrongVerb]

That was about as Browns a play as the Bengals can muster.

[RedEye]

Hill finally gets a long run and then this happens.

[Stray]

fluky play goes against us

that's so bengals

- - - Updated - - -

pretty sure that's down way back where the guy who recovered got tackled tho

[WrongVerb]

The guy who recovered the ball was down before he fumbled.

[RedEye]

That was about as Browns a play as the Bengals can muster.

No. That was a Bengals play.

[WrongVerb]

My girlfriend about this entire game: "Lamesauce."

[Reds Fanatic]

The guy who recovered the ball was down before he fumbled.

In a normal game yes but this is the Steelers

[Dom Heffner]

Hill finally gets a long run and then this happens.

Oh so you're one of those fans lol...

Seriously, they are the Cubs.

[dabvu2498]

It'll probably be a week before my dogs come out from behind the couch.

[RedEye]

Oh so you're one of those fans lol...

Seriously, they are the Cubs.

Which fans?

[Stray]

Not nearly Kenyon breaking his leg tier, but Andy Dalton is winning this game right now. Playoff demons or not.

[The Operator]

TD will not stand. But I dunno, sure isn't looking good either way.

[Joseph]

Oh so you're one of those fans lol...

Seriously, they are the Cubs.

The Cubs may win a playoff series before the Bengals win a playoff game.

[WrongVerb]

Unsportmanlike on a non play stays in effect? Ok, I'm fine with that.

[RedEye]

Oh so you're one of those fans lol...

Seriously, they are the Cubs.

The Cubs? Come on.

[schmidty622]

When has McCarron ever looked like Hoyer looks today? AJ has had issues reading zone coverage, but he's not an idiot and I have no doubt the coaches have been working with him to shore up that weakness. Going against man coverage, AJ has an arm that just picks that apart.

Anything to say now?

[The Operator]

LOL here comes a touchdown. Garbage. Garbage garbage garbage.

[RedEye]

Good god. They get a break and then THIS happens.

[Dom Heffner]

Why do I waste my time. Why.

What a vanilla play.

[The Operator]

Anything to say now?Does it make you feel better to be right when you predict doom and gloom?

[Dom Heffner]

Anything to say now?

Oh, just wait for what this board has in store for you.

[Ibleedblue]

Has a 6-0 game with 11:45 left in the 3rd ever felt so over?

[wolfboy]

Does anybody believe this offensive line is good anymore? I don't.

[Stray]

Defense is playing desperate now. Overplaying since our offense has no showed. No balanced on that run and got burned.

[RedEye]

Why do I waste my time. Why.

What a vanilla play.

They have cool helmets?

[schmidty622]

Does it make you feel better to be right when you predict doom and gloom?

As I stated earlier in the thread. It makes me feel less disappointed. It's Cincinnati sports and it's after 1990. Doom and gloom is all there is.

[Stray]

Does anybody believe this offensive line is good anymore? I don't.

Has our offensive line ever not looked terrible against Pittsburgh? Run and pass blocking, seems like our line always sucks against Baltimore and Pittsburgh.

[The Operator]

Well, they're gonna hold them to a FG. But what's the point? I mean seriously.

[Dom Heffner]

Does it make you feel better to be right when you predict doom and gloom?

If you're going to deny it, you gotta take it when you're proven wrong.

[Stray]

WRs can get away with anything and it's not OPI.

Our defense is balling out tho.

[WrongVerb]

Wish the offense was playing anywhere close to as good as the defense is.

[Dom Heffner]

Has a 6-0 game with 11:45 left in the 3rd ever felt so over?

No.

[RedEye]

Given the recent turn of events, 9-0 is not bad. But still... that feels like a mountain.

[KoryMac5]

Hats off to the D, can't pin this one on them. The offense never, ever shows up in big games.

[wolfboy]

Has our offensive line ever not looked terrible against Pittsburgh? Run and pass blocking, seems like our line always sucks against Baltimore and Pittsburgh.

Having watched this past season I'm not as upset that they took tackles back to back.

[Stray]

We need a momentum play. Maybe a big pass to AJ or something.

[The Operator]

As I stated earlier in the thread. It makes me feel less disappointed. It's Cincinnati sports and it's after 1990. Doom and gloom is all there is.

Why, though? I'm as hard on The Bengals as anyone but saying "Told ya!" gives me absolutely no pleasure, and it also doesn't even remotely take away the sting of losing.

[RedEye]

If you're going to deny it, you gotta take it when you're proven wrong.

Why are you so eager to prove optimism wrong though? I don't get this bickering, I really don't. We should all be on the same woeful page right now. There should be solidarity in that.

[KoryMac5]

AJ Green continues his disappearing act in big games.

[Dom Heffner]

Given the recent turn of events, 9-0 is not bad. But still... that feels like a mountain.

^That is Bengaldom.

There is no bright side when you're losing.

- - - Updated - - -


AJ Green continues his disappearing act in big games.

He gives up on a lot of routes.

[Stray]

The most lopsided 9-0 game ever.

We're one play away from a game. It feels unlikely tho lol.

[RedEye]

^That is Bengaldom.

There is no bright side when you're losing.

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He gives up on a lot of routes.

There can be. There has to be if you want to have a chance to win.

[schmidty622]

Why, though? I'm as hard on The Bengals as anyone but saying "Told ya!" gives me absolutely no pleasure, and it also doesn't even remotely take away the sting of losing.

I guess you're right. It gives me no pleasure. The only thing I would say is that my comment earlier was directed at McCarron who people were hailing as not terrible. He's terrible. I can take some sting away by being aware of that.

[The Operator]

If you're going to deny it, you gotta take it when you're proven wrong.I haven't denied anything, I'm pretty hard on The Bengals actually. But I'm always hoping they prove me wrong, and when I'm right I hate it.

[Dom Heffner]

Why are you so eager to prove optimism wrong though? I don't get this bickering, I really don't. We should all be on the same woeful page right now. There should be solidarity in that.

You guys have all the rules...not me.

[Stray]

Hitting that throw between the CB and safety was as decisive a throw as AJ has made all night. Late and that's picked.

[Dom Heffner]

I haven't denied anything, I'm pretty hard on The Bengals actually. But I'm always hoping they prove me wrong, and when I'm right I hate it.

I mean Dan, not you. But whatever.

When you gripe, cool, when anyone else does they are doing it wrong.

[RedEye]

You guys have all the rules...not me.

I don't even know what you are talking about.

[Stray]

give up a TD here and this baby is over.

I expected much more from McCarron. He looks totally lost out there.

[RedEye]

give up a TD here and this baby is over.

I expected much more from McCarron. He looks totally lost out there.

Yep. Not surprising for a guy in his 4th start. Bengals might be the weakest 3 seed in history. Pitt? They could go all the way.

[Stray]

Other than that duck that got picked, have we actually taken a deep shot over the top all game? That's where Pitt is vulnerable and seems to be where McCarron makes his best throws.

[RedEye]

Other than that duck that got picked, have we actually taken a deep shot over the top all game? That's where Pitt is vulnerable and seems to be where McCarron makes his best throws.

But... the rain.

[The Operator]

I mean Dan, not you. But whatever.

When you gripe, cool, when anyone else does they are doing it wrong.Oh Dom, you know I love you. :)

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9-0 might as well be 49-0 with this offense. Jeebus.

[RedEye]

A 9-0 game has never felt more lost to me.

[Slyder]

*This isn't direct at anyone here because I really didn't see it here but on FB*

To those who think McCarron gives you a better chance to win than Dalton... yea... just be quiet now.

[Stray]

But... the rain.

Rain hurts the defense more than the offense. Wind is the killer for QBs.

McCarron just needs to be better.

[KoryMac5]

119 yards total on offense will make even the most optimistic fan stand on the ledge tonight. Hue must have his eye on San Fran tomorrow.

[Dom Heffner]

give up a TD here and this baby is over.

I expected much more from McCarron. He looks totally lost out there.

Ha! This has been over.

[schmidty622]

The good news is that next season will be exactly the same.

[Stray]

Looks like we may need a defense TD lol

[Dom Heffner]

*This isn't direct at anyone here because I really didn't see it here but on FB*

To those who think McCarron gives you a better chance to win than Dalton... yea... just be quiet now.

Someone here said they saw no difference.

[The Operator]

Game over. You knew the defense would get tired of never leaving the field.

[Dom Heffner]

The good news is that next season will be exactly the same.

I like you.

And you're right.

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If we hold them to a FG here we'll have another moral victory.

[Ibleedblue]

The good news is that next season will be exactly the same.

Depressing. Even more depressing than facing all the Steelers fans at work on Monday... ugh.

[The Operator]

DeCastro gets away with something that would be a penalty for Cincinnati.

[Stray]

There is such a humongous difference between 12 and 16. 12 points is not much different than 9.

[Reds Fanatic]

That pretty much ends this game.

[The Operator]

And that should do it.

I'm so so so beyond sick of this every year.

[schmidty622]

Can the Bengals somehow get relegated tonight? Bengals to Big Ten, Michigan State to AFC North?

[Stray]

And there is the 16. There's the game. McCarron can't do 3 scores tonight.

[Joseph]

I'm sure though that there's going to be lots of reasons next year will be different. Andy 0-4 Dalton, rain, Reggie Nelson injury, more injuries. There's always a reason.

[Stray]

When did he have control tho? For two feet...

[KoryMac5]

Well it looks like we all meet back here come April for the draft.

[Stray]

I'm sure though that there's going to be lots of reasons next year will be different. Andy 0-4 Dalton, rain, Reggie Nelson injury, more injuries. There's always a reason.

Your QB who was putting up an MVP type season getting injured is a pretty legit reason tho lol

[Dom Heffner]

Depressing. Even more depressing than facing all the Steelers fans at work on Monday... ugh.

I like to remind them that somewhere, there is someone still celebrating Nixon's '72 landslide victory.

[RedEye]

I'm sure though that there's going to be lots of reasons next year will be different. Andy 0-4 Dalton, rain, Reggie Nelson injury, more injuries. There's always a reason.

So the reason you prefer is... Bungles? I agree that the losing is painful, but each year has been different. I don't think you can point to some overarching explanation other than a lot of different unfortunate reasons.

[KoryMac5]

I'm sure though that there's going to be lots of reasons next year will be different. Andy 0-4 Dalton, rain, Reggie Nelson injury, more injuries. There's always a reason.

Let's face it the team and the fans are cursed. Let's leave it at that.

[WMR]

Their 3rd and 4th string running backs slicing us up while our "studs" in the backfield can't get anything going. Our Pro Bowl safety gets his hair pulled by their assistant, then breaks his ankle a few plays later. Peko and his "invisibility cloak" with the dumbass play of the season. Our inexperienced, bumbling, stumbling, fumbling quarterback in the rain vs. a QB and team that thrives in poor weather conditions. Now Kirkpatrick down with what looks like a potentially bad knee injury.

Murphy's law or The Curse of Bo Jackson or whatever you want to call it, I've just accepted that nothing good is ever going to happen for this franchise or a nice guy like Marvin. Just tip our hat and call the Steelers or any team fortunate enough to play us in prime time our daddies. Lorne Michaels should be envious, these are the real not ready for prime time players.

[Ibleedblue]

I'm sure though that there's going to be lots of reasons next year will be different. Andy 0-4 Dalton, rain, Reggie Nelson injury, more injuries. There's always a reason.

Yep. Tired of all the excuses. Point blank when the pressure is on, the Bengals shrivel up and die. No denying it. I don't want to hear the announcers say how tired the players are of hearing about it. Do something about it, then. Win a big game. Don't start hot and then fade as you back your way into a first round playoff loss every year.

[Reds Fanatic]

Well it looks like we all meet back here come April for the draft.

The draft is pretty much the highlight of the Bengals season anymore.

[Redsfaithful]

Congrats to everyone who knew all year this would happen, you guys win. Hope it feels good!

[schmidty622]

So the reason you prefer is... Bungles? I agree that the losing is painful, but each year has been different. I don't think you can point to some overarching explanation other than a lot of different unfortunate reasons.

Lol. Welcome to the dark side.

[Stray]

Watching that replay and that was just a great catch. Ball never came loose on his body.

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2 score game that feels like we're losing 40-0

[schmidty622]

Congrats to everyone who knew all year this would happen, you guys win. Hope it feels good!

Feels better than having my balloon popped. If you know there is no balloon then it can't be popped.

[WVRed]

The way this catch is being replayed you would think OBJ played for Pittsburgh

[Reds Fanatic]

And of course the hard rain is back as the Bengals get the ball back.

[RedEye]

Lol. Welcome to the dark side.

I honestly didn't have a whole lot of hope going into this game or the game last year. The SD game was the only one where I felt like there was a legit, inexcusable failure.

[Dom Heffner]

Congrats to everyone who knew all year this would happen, you guys win. Hope it feels good!

Hahahahahaha.

Just admit you were wrong. No need to hit people for something they've been telling you for months and you wouldn't listen.

Dalton's out but this is as poor a performance by a professional football team that I've ever seen.

[Stray]

Saying it all night but literally a TD from a game. That's not much to ask but it sure feels like it tonight.

[RedEye]

Bengals looking like a second division team at this point. Just pitiful.

[757690]

Two score game. Plenty of time left. I've seen much bigger comebacks in the playoffs.

[Stray]

Hahahahahaha.

Just admit you were wrong. No need to hit people for something they've been telling you for months and you wouldn't listen.

Dalton's out but this is as poor a performance by a professional football team that I've ever seen.

Dalton being out is why it's poor. Defense has been rock solid tonight. QB play is killing us.

[WrongVerb]

At least I know for sure I'm going to be disappointed by the Powerball drawing tonight.

[RedEye]

Hahahahahaha.

Just admit you were wrong. No need to hit people for something they've been telling you for months and you wouldn't listen.

Dalton's out but this is as poor a performance by a professional football team that I've ever seen.

What have you been telling him for months? That the team is destined to fail? That's just pessimism, not reason to gloat about being right.

[Stray]

Maybe Pittsburgh can give us a few more 15 yarders cuz god knows we need the help.

[Dom Heffner]

Two score game. Plenty of time left. I've seen much bigger comebacks in the playoffs.

Are you watching this?

[WrongVerb]

Hahahahahaha.

Just admit you were wrong. No need to hit people for something they've been telling you for months and you wouldn't listen.

Dalton's out but this is as poor a performance by a professional football team that I've ever seen.

I didn't realize scoring points on a message board counted in life. My bad.

[Ibleedblue]

LOL even the simplest of plays now. They have gone Full Bungle

[Dom Heffner]

What have you been telling him for months? That the team is destined to fail? That's just pessimism, not reason to gloat about being right.

Another rule!

[Stray]

Marvin has people who make these calls for him who have been very good. I don't think we challenge unless they know it.

[RedEye]

Another rule!

It is not a rule. It is a description of your attitude.