Cincinnati Bengals - Part Four

[Kingspoint]

I think Chubb is a better runner. McCaffrey is better overall with his pass catching


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That's the way I see it. Total production, McCaffery outshines Chubb by a lot in my opinion.

[Kingspoint]

I think there's a cap on how good the Bengals can be with this defensive coordinator and Taylor calling the offensive plays THAT BEING SAID if they can sneak into the playoffs I think they've got a shot to be interesting.

Both are new to their positions and have been on an upward learning curve since they took over. Neither has shown signs of peaking, and instead they both have shown signs this season that's there's a lot more improvement on the horizon.

[Kingspoint]

AFC is a bit of a scrap heap this year. So weird to see Buffalo lose to Jacksonville, for example. Titans lost to the Jets. Not saying that makes the Bengals' last few games excusable, but I do think Burrow is right when he says they have everything in front of them.

I don't see the NFC as top-heavy, but full of too many bad teams making for great records for the top-five. I see the AFC as 10 deep at the top, as good as any team in the NFC, but that the AFC has to play each other so often that they experience more losses from the top teams.

Any 5-4 team in the AFC would be 7-2 in the NFC.

[RedEye]

Any 5-4 team in the AFC would be 7-2 in the NFC.

Interesting take. Not something I had thought of, but it makes sense. Always thought that the top teams in the NFC (Arizona, Tampa, Dallas, LA, GB) were a cut above the AFC, but you might be right.

[membengal]

Bengals catch a massive break tonight as Baltimore takes its own terrible L on the road in Miami. Eight games left and division remains wide open. Bengals can rest up and come in Monday ready to attack, I hope.

[Benihana]

So Adeniji just supplanted Jackson Carman? Are we acknowledging that Carman is a disappointment already?

Creed Humphrey, who was taken some 20 picks after Carman, is already the best Center in the league after 8 games. Fair? Maybe not. Not surprising? Of course.

[RiverRat13]

So Adeniji just supplanted Jackson Carman? Are we acknowledging that Carman is a disappointment already?

Creed Humphrey, who was taken some 20 picks after Carman, is already the best Center in the league after 8 games. Fair? Maybe not. Not surprising? Of course.

With hindsight we know the Bengals would have been better off taking Humphrey and Trey Smith in the 2nd/6th rounds instead of Carman/Hill. But I'm not sure how fair that is when Humphrey was the fifth OL taken after Carman was picked (and the 10th offensive lineman taken in the 2nd round). The bigger problem at IOL is that they didn't fix it in free agency. They had better do so this year.

[oregonred]

So Adeniji just supplanted Jackson Carman? Are we acknowledging that Carman is a disappointment already?

Creed Humphrey, who was taken some 20 picks after Carman, is already the best Center in the league after 8 games. Fair? Maybe not. Not surprising? Of course.

Is there a news story here or is this a comment on the Browns game where Adenji started since Carman hurt his back the previous week against the Jets and was active but not starting. Carman has flashed with the run game at times. Hopkins has been the weak link in the interior, likely due to coming back from ACL to early and the Bengals not having a backup plan at Center for the first half of the season.

[Sea Ray]

With hindsight we know the Bengals would have been better off taking Humphrey and Trey Smith in the 2nd/6th rounds instead of Carman/Hill. But I'm not sure how fair that is when Humphrey was the fifth OL taken after Carman was picked (and the 10th offensive lineman taken in the 2nd round). The bigger problem at IOL is that they didn't fix it in free agency. They had better do so this year.

It's way too early to say that. I think Carman's back issues have them spooked at this point. Adjeniji's rating from PFF were not good last week as I recall.

[Ohayou]

So Adeniji just supplanted Jackson Carman? Are we acknowledging that Carman is a disappointment already?

Creed Humphrey, who was taken some 20 picks after Carman, is already the best Center in the league after 8 games. Fair? Maybe not. Not surprising? Of course.

The coaches have always been high on Adenji. I think they just want to see what he can do now that he's healthy again. Also, while Carman has been practicing, his back may not be 100% yet. Who knows. Outside of a bad performance against GB, I'd say he's played decent. Hopkins, OTOH, is as bad as Billy Price.

[oregonred]

Spain has been terrific this season at LG. Would like to see him extended before the end of the season

He was a fantastic pickup from the Bills scrap heap mid-season last year

[Kingspoint]

With hindsight we know the Bengals would have been better off taking Humphrey and Trey Smith in the 2nd/6th rounds instead of Carman/Hill. But I'm not sure how fair that is when Humphrey was the fifth OL taken after Carman was picked (and the 10th offensive lineman taken in the 2nd round). The bigger problem at IOL is that they didn't fix it in free agency. They had better do so this year.

Yes. That has always been the problem....not fixing the Center situation in Free Agency, limiting themselves to draft picks and development, not sensing the urgency to get it done through whatever means necessary. They are so horrible at drafting and developing Centers that trading someone like Mixon for a Center would be well worth it.

[oregonred]

I would think having Burrow is going to make OL FA's coming to Cincinnati much more attractive.

Like Reiff this past offseason

Upgrading Center is the #1 offensive priority next season. Assuming Spain is locked up and Reiff or equivalent at RT

[Kingspoint]

Week 10 has been the best week for the Bengals since they beat the Ravens in Week 7. Week 11 they need to win their first game since that Week 7 best-win-of-the-last-10-years.

[RedEye]

Week 10 has been the best week for the Bengals since they beat the Ravens in Week 7. Week 11 they need to win their first game since that Week 7 best-win-of-the-last-10-years.

Agreed! Now they just need to win a game...

[KoryMac5]

Akeem Davis-Gaither season ending foot surgery...Bengals now razor thin at LB

[Ohayou]

Bailey may be back this week. Don't know much about this Johnston guy they just claimed.

[RedEye]

Bailey may be back this week. Don't know much about this Johnston guy they just claimed.

This sucks because LB was already the weakest part of their D. The secondary does have questions too, but the Jets just abused the 'backers.

[Sea Ray]

With the salary cap and the short rosters, every team goes through shortages like this in an NFL season. It sucks but that's life in the NFL

[Bob Sheed]

Get ready for more opponent TEs running free in the middle of the field all day long.

The opposing offense only needs to run one passing play at this point. Until they get bored with abusing our LBs, then they can just target Apple.

So two plays. "TE cross over the middle", and "throw it wherever Apple is."

[KoryMac5]

Get ready for more opponent TEs running free in the middle of the field all day long.

The opposing offense only needs to run one passing play at this point. Until they get bored with abusing our LBs, then they can just target Apple.

So two plays. "TE cross over the middle", and "throw it wherever Apple is."

and they play Vegas next who does a lot of what you posted above...it's not just the backers though Bates needs to start playing like a guy who wants to get paid.

[Bob Sheed]

Bates has seen some drop off from "elite" status, but the two glaring issues mentioned are more than enough for even Practice Squad QBs to exploit.

Apple doesn't belong in the NFL, much less as a starter. I am highly skeptical he's the best option out there. There has to be some guy on someone's practice squad that at least has more upside. He's like the Bobby Hart of defensive backs.

[oregonred]

With the salary cap and the short rosters, every team goes through shortages like this in an NFL season. It sucks but that's life in the NFL

100% which is where an above average coaching staff and scheme can overcome the NFL injury bug for a game or two at key positions

[Redsfaithful]

I think Bates plays a position that just doesn't have enough impact. Like, if you could somehow choose where to allocate your elite player on defense it might be the last position you'd choose.

[Redhook]

I think Bates plays a position that just doesn't have enough impact. Like, if you could somehow choose where to allocate your elite player on defense it might be the last position you'd choose.

Agree, unless you’re Troy Polamalu. He was really good and actually changed games as a safety. Very rare for that position. Bates isn’t Polamalu. Safety is probably the easiest position to play on the field and is arguably the least important not counting the extinct fullback position.

Based on all of what we said, I fully expect the Bengals to spend top dollar on resigning Bates while ignoring LB and OL.

[KoryMac5]

Bates has seen some drop off from "elite" status, but the two glaring issues mentioned are more than enough for even Practice Squad QBs to exploit.

Apple doesn't belong in the NFL, much less as a starter. I am highly skeptical he's the best option out there. There has to be some guy on someone's practice squad that at least has more upside. He's like the Bobby Hart of defensive backs.

Corners are tough to come by...I mean Dre Kirkpatrick was still employed by a team until yesterday. I would like to see what Tre Flowers brings to the table.

[WVRed]

Agree, unless you’re Troy Polamalu. He was really good and actually changed games as a safety. Very rare for that position. Bates isn’t Polamalu. Safety is probably the easiest position to play on the field and is arguably the least important not counting the extinct fullback position.

Based on all of what we said, I fully expect the Bengals to spend top dollar on resigning Bates while ignoring LB and OL.

It doesn’t even have to be Polamalu. If he’s one of the best safeties in the league, pay him. The question with Bates is is he worth being paid that much with other glaring holes on the roster?

[KoryMac5]

Taylor did not commit to Apple as this weeks starter...Flowers or Hargreaves now firmly in the mix

[RiverRat13]

I think Bates plays a position that just doesn't have enough impact. Like, if you could somehow choose where to allocate your elite player on defense it might be the last position you'd choose.

I agree with this. I'd rather use that money to buy a center and draft Bates' replacement in the 2nd or 3rd round.

[Bob Sheed]

49ers released Dre Kirkpatrick.

I'd kick the tires with him over Apple at this point.

[Redhook]

It doesn’t even have to be Polamalu. If he’s one of the best safeties in the league, pay him. The question with Bates is is he worth being paid that much with other glaring holes on the roster?

To answer your question, I don’t think he is. They’ve had glaring weaknesses in the trenches and LB for years. And, those are more important positions. Now, that said, they might as well keep Bates since they won’t spend that money to improve those position anyways.

[UKFlounder]

From Ben Baby:

Bengals coach Zac Taylor confirms CB Eli Apple will continue to be the starter. Taylor gave an extended answer that spoke to why the staff believes he’s the best option at that spot.

[Bob Sheed]

If Apple is the best option they have at CB, then they will see the same results in their secondary as they did on their offensive line when Bobby Hart was the best option they had at RT.

Gotta love Zac's answer though.

https://images.daznservices.com/di/library/sporting_news/54/7a/rockies-simpson-020816-ftrjpg_19gss9zrkfd3j15qybhie0rbqs.jpg

[membengal]

49ers released Dre Kirkpatrick.

I'd kick the tires with him over Apple at this point.

He's worse.

[Tony Cloninger]

Don’t know what they are waiting on to use Hargreaves for Apple or Flowers too.

They don’t understand the DC vanilla playbook?

[KoryMac5]

Apple ranks 118 out of 119 corners according to PFF....

[oregonred]

They've hit on a lot of the defensive FA, but Waynes signed as CB #1 has been an unmitigated disaster as he can't even get on the field

[Sea Ray]

They've hit on a lot of the defensive FA, but Waynes signed as CB #1 has been an unmitigated disaster as he can't even get on the field

It's been mostly injuries and that can happen in the NFL. I don't blame the front office for not foreseeing that. What I can't stand are signings like Bobby Hart

[oregonred]

It's been mostly injuries and that can happen in the NFL. I don't blame the front office for not foreseeing that. What I can't stand are signings like Bobby Hart

Definitely not. But the plan for 2021 was not to have Apple manning CB most of the year

CB, OL and LB are clearly the areas of need for the 2022 Draft/FA

[Reds Freak]

Feels like a pretty significant swing game today for the Bengals against another wild card hopeful. Win, and the Bengals are on the right side of the playoff mix again. Lose, and it seems like a steep uphill battle.

[Sea Ray]

Feels like a pretty significant swing game today for the Bengals against another wild card hopeful. Win, and the Bengals are on the right side of the playoff mix again. Lose, and it seems like a steep uphill battle.

Well put. This game will illustrate whether the Ravens game was a blip or whether the Jets/Browns were

[WVRed]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211121/3978f0f8fa3bff0c38c497d9d8e7ce0c.jpg

Joe Burrow looks like he’s headed to a NSYNC concert.

[Hillsdale87]

None of the receivers getting any separation. Not a good start against a bad defense


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[The Operator]

Pretty curious play call on 3rd & 1 there.

[oregonred]

That 3rd and 1 end around looked like slow motion. Need to use Boyd and Uzomah more

[oregonred]

If the offensive game plan is to lull the Raiders to sleep then so far they are executing perfectly. :confused:

[Hillsdale87]

Bengals slow starts continue. The field looks like garbage, which I'm sure doesn't help, but these receivers need to make an impact


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[KoryMac5]

Zac Taylor the play caller is pretty awful...

[oregonred]

Memo to Zac: Establishing the run is not working

[The Operator]

This is probably heresy but Mixon seems pretty overrated to me.

[oregonred]

Raiders are stacking the line and blitzing. Assuming Joe survives there are big plays to be had.

[oregonred]

Raiders D dumb penalties continuing to help the Bengals

[The Operator]

Mixon! I never doubted him.

[oregonred]

Big 1st down there to keep the ball inside 2mins. Use Evans on short routes more...

[oregonred]

That was scary Crosby rolling over on the knee. Hope Joe is ok. The oline is garbage so far.

[Hillsdale87]

This is probably heresy but Mixon seems pretty overrated to me.

I agree. Never really gets more than is blocked


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[oregonred]

The shame is a TD to Chase on the play before if he gets another split second to throw. He looked a little gimpy walking into the halftime locker room

[Hillsdale87]

I don't know if the blame rests with the play designs or the WRs, but the inability to get open is a problem. Feels like half the sacks this season are when Bengals are spread out, it's supposed to be a quick pass, and nobody is open


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[KoryMac5]

If the Raiders insist on covering Boyd with a LB they have to exploit that more in the 2nd half...

[oregonred]

Burrow not feeling the pocket and the Raidersare in his head. He steps up on 3rd and 6 and has an open throwing lane. He hesitates, steps back, runs around and takes a sack and late hit on Crosby rolling on him in the pile

[Hillsdale87]

This field is embarrassingly bad


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[OldRightHander]

I'm fighting the heavy eyelids here. Stupid jet lag. Body thinks it's 8 hours ahead still. Need some excitement here in the second half.

[Hillsdale87]

I seriously think this field is dangerous. Nobody can cut. Somebody is going to get hurt


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[oregonred]

McPherson saves the drive after a Sample drop and doomed edge run call on 2nd and 10. Good job saving the FG attempt on the 3rd down screen.

[KoryMac5]

I still can't believe some laughed at the Bengals taking a kicker in the 5th...McPherson is special

[WVRed]

McPherson doing his best Justin Tucker impersonation today.

[oregonred]

Was hoping Raiders O would stay asleep another 15mins. Easy 3 play td drive there to make it 16-13. What happened on the coverage with Logan Wilson outside...

[WVRed]

And the Bengals give up a quick TD with Logan Wilson covering.

[oregonred]

Memo: never throw to Drew Sample if the game is still in doubt

[OldRightHander]

How many rookie kickers have made three 50+ FG in one game? Can't be many.

[Hillsdale87]

Memo: never throw to Drew Sample if the game is still in doubt

He looked nice blocking on that Mixon run though. Great blocker, but so bad in the pass game


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[OldRightHander]

That just might do it. Beautiful throw to Chase.

[oregonred]

Missed extra point after the beautiful TD drive. D needs to close the door...

[The Operator]

Missed PAT attempt.

Still a 2 score game though thankfully.

[OldRightHander]

Make 3 over 50 and miss a PAT. Weird game.

[oregonred]

Eli Apple!!

[OldRightHander]

Of all people to make a key pick, who would have guessed Apple?

[oregonred]

Mixon and the oline cash it in :thumbup:

[OldRightHander]

What a run. That should ice it.

[KoryMac5]

Mixon to put the exclamation point on things!

[WVRed]

With everything happening today and now Apple is making plays, happy Opposite Day!

[The Operator]

This is probably heresy but Mixon seems pretty overrated to me.

Look at this big dumb dummy.

[OldRightHander]

Look at this big dumb dummy.

He probably saw your post.

[OldRightHander]

That will finish it. Carr just plain dropped it.

[oregonred]

Big win on the road. Offense and defense complete game in the 2nd half.

[UKFlounder]

This was an important one. I thought a loss could lead to a continued downfall to a losing record, but this was a big performance, especially the second half. That was nice.

[KoryMac5]

Look at this big dumb dummy.


He disappeared over the last few weeks in fairness to you...and he probably is a bit overpaid. He came up big today and the Bengals leaned hard on him...

[WrongVerb]

He disappeared over the last few weeks in fairness to you...and he probably is a bit overpaid. He came up big today and the Bengals leaned hard on him...

Maybe he's the type of back who needs lots of reps.

[oregonred]

What a weekend trifecta with the Buckeyes, Bearcats and Bengals winning big against good opponents.

[membengal]

HUGE win. Just massive. So much to play for now at 6-4 and a lot of home games coming up. Legit fun for home fans. So happy for everyone.

Also, I hated the gameplan but...ZT was right and i was wrong. Hammering the run and sticking with it was the right call. I don't have the patience as a fan for that but I know I have watched Baltimore and Pittsburgh for YEARS do just that to great success late in games when the gameplan calls for it. Was interesting to see that work for us this time around.

Someone mentioned above - but Mixon definitely gets stronger with more carries and as season deepens.

[Tony Cloninger]

This OL makes it difficult to run at all. Terrible Center is a Bengal thing.

[KoryMac5]

HUGE win. Just massive. So much to play for now at 6-4 and a lot of home games coming up. Legit fun for home fans. So happy for everyone.

Also, I hated the gameplan but...ZT was right and i was wrong. Hammering the run and sticking with it was the right call. I don't have the patience as a fan for that but I know I have watched Baltimore and Pittsburgh for YEARS do just that to great success late in games when the gameplan calls for it. Was interesting to see that work for us this time around.

Someone mentioned above - but Mixon definitely gets stronger with more carries and as season deepens.

His 3rd and short calls are terrible though...after they spent the bye working on them...would be my only criticism.

Next 3 weeks are huge all winnable home games.

[KoryMac5]

This OL makes it difficult to run at all. Terrible Center is a Bengal thing.

Hopkins has been awful and RG continues to be a huge gaping hole and revolving door... not sure how Adeniji looked today.

[oregonred]

Establishing the run is ok, but the problem is the Bengals play calling was so predictable in the first half that Joe Burrow almost didn't make it to the 2nd half with so many predictable passing downs.

What did start working was a little ball control with some screens to Evans and Perrine and a few short passes to Boyd and CJ. Then the running lanes opened more up as the offense became less predictable and the OL starting wearing the Raiders down.

[UKFlounder]

The defense did enough to allow the offensive strategy to work and McPherson, again, was key too. If the D gives up an extra TD instead of a field goal, or we can’t make those kicks, the offense may not have been good enough.

[membengal]

but this re: hopkins...


Andrew Russell
@PFF_AndrewR
·
6m
Trey Hopkins kept a clean sheet in pass pro: 0 sacks, hits or hurries. He is (likely) the Bengals highest-graded pass protector vs Las Vegas.

[Playadlc]

but this re: hopkins...


Andrew Russell
@PFF_AndrewR
·
6m
Trey Hopkins kept a clean sheet in pass pro: 0 sacks, hits or hurries. He is (likely) the Bengals highest-graded pass protector vs Las Vegas.

This is encouraging. Maybe he’s just now getting healthy?

[Hillsdale87]

Maybe he's the type of back who needs lots of reps.

He does seem to get better late in the game. Ripped up the Ravens in the 4th quarter too


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[Redhook]

This is encouraging. Maybe he’s just now getting healthy?

I completely tore my ACL and MCL skiing 2 years ago. It’s a loooong recovery. I know the NFL players get better treatment/PT than I do, but counting on Hopkins to be “good/normal” 8-10 months after surgery was asinine. Now that we’re getting into December, he’s closer to a year post-surgery so he should be around full strength now. I would expect him to be able to perform like he did last year going forward the rest of the season.

[Bob Sheed]

As an aside, I'm not sure I have ever seen a fake flea flicker before.

[membengal]

As an aside, I'm not sure I have ever seen a fake flea flicker before.

me either. and...it worked! It was really clever.

[membengal]

Not for nothing - but I am reasonably certain they don't win that game if Randy Bullock or Austin Seibert were still this team's kicker. McPherson bombing three field goals from 51, 53 and 54 in spots where each were points they really needed was critical. He's been really good. Feels different in games like that having a kicker who can cash it in.

[membengal]

My general two cents...

---Not sure they win that game if Bullock or Seibert are still this team's kicker. McPherson bombing figgies from 54, 53 and 51 - with each being needed points was a massive difference in this game. That guy totally changes the dynamic.

---I alluded to this elsewhere, but I generally hate pushing the run game - but ZT had the right plan today. Easier to live with the time it takes to establish the run and wear teams down late (like they did today) when you have a kicker who can cash in drives when they inevitably run out of steam with that approach. Ravens for years use Tucker to bail them out in these kind of games - we got bailed out today w/ a good kicker. Nice.

---Sure wish they used Evans more - Perine is...fine. Evans has a whole different gear.

---Line stabalized as game went on after a roughish feeling 1st quarter. Allowing just one sack to Crosby/Ngokwe was good work in final analysis.

---Nice bounce-back for the defense - good gameplan and other than the one drive - really excellent from them today. Good discipline to choke down on the short passing game too.

---Good work from Burrow to be patient and not force things. Has to be hard to throttle back, but he managed things well today.

---Still wish Higgins would find his mojo on contested catches.

---I could not believe we waited two weeks for them to to run a TE screen to Sample for play one. Much cussing from me.

---That said, Sample does block well. And...Stanley Morgan blocks like a madman.

---Great game from Mixon - put the team on his back and got stronger as game went on. Nice to have that on film.

---Wish they could find more consistency with the run blocking early in games - not sure what the issue is there. It gets better as game goes on.

---vintage game from Boyd - glad they found him again to help move the sticks. ZT can't forget to do that going forward.

[Stray]

Pretty sure all those McPherson kicks woulda been good from 60+. Dude has a leg cannon. What a weapon.

[Danny Serafini]

As an aside, I'm not sure I have ever seen a fake flea flicker before.

Purdue ran one against Ohio State the week before and got about 10 yards on it. Pretty sure that was the first time I'd seen it though.

[Hillsdale87]

As an aside, I'm not sure I have ever seen a fake flea flicker before.

That was a really cool play. It looked like Mixon could have broken it for a big run if not for the terrible turf.

[Sea Ray]

Look at this big dumb dummy.

You gotta consider the line Mixon has to run through. His yards are hard fought

- - - Updated - - -


Big win on the road. Offense and defense complete game in the 2nd half.

Best played Bengals game after a bye in my memory

[Sea Ray]

but this re: hopkins...


Andrew Russell
@PFF_AndrewR
·
6m
Trey Hopkins kept a clean sheet in pass pro: 0 sacks, hits or hurries. He is (likely) the Bengals highest-graded pass protector vs Las Vegas.

The Raiders rarely rushed up the middle. Their strength is on the edges and that's where they put their pass rushers

[oregonred]

Bengals are 4th in the AFC and 8th in the NFL in point differential

[KoryMac5]

Next 3...Pitts, SD, SF all at home, need to go 2-1...anything less puts you on the outside of the playoff chase.

[KoryMac5]

Bengals with 40 penalties on the season lowest in the NFL…credit to Taylor and the coaches on that stat.

[membengal]

I know there is so much that can go wrong from here - but just wanted to pause and say that, relative my expectations at least - being 6-4 at this juncture is an unexpected and pleasant surprise. That they are going to play at least some meaningful games in December is a massive step forward from the uncertainty of the off-season and Burrow's recovery and the coming off of 2 and 4 win seasons. Happy to have a reason to watch games this late in the year for something other than hoping for losses to improve draft position at any rate.

[RiverRat13]

The Steelers are getting healthy and their offense is playing a lot better. Going to need Joe to step up this week. Hopefully the Bengals don't waste the entire first half trying to establish the run and find themselves down a couple of scores.

[traderumor]

Zach has at least lost the ghost of Coaches Past stripe for me at this point, aka the David Shula Award.

[Tony Cloninger]

I hope he does not follow the Lewis mantra of trying to establish the run on the Steelers. They’re defense seems to be designed to never allow anyone to run on them. No matter how hard you try. Especially with this OL that is not good at run blocking as a group.

[Bob Sheed]

Not saying I agree, but I think the idea is, after tackling a hard runner like Mixon for the entire first half, defenders get tired of tackling him in the 2nd half and that's when he makes his money.

[Sea Ray]

I hope he does not follow the Lewis mantra of trying to establish the run on the Steelers. They’re defense seems to be designed to never allow anyone to run on them. No matter how hard you try. Especially with this OL that is not good at run blocking as a group.

This year the Steelers D is horrible against the run statistically. That's highly unusual for a Pitt defense but that's where we are right now

[forfreelin04]

Steelers are going to have Watt, Minkah, and Haden back on Sunday. Hopefully they're rusty.

[RiverRat13]

Not saying I agree, but I think the idea is, after tackling a hard runner like Mixon for the entire first half, defenders get tired of tackling him in the 2nd half and that's when he makes his money.That's the idea and it worked when the defense played well last week. But without a dominant offensive line, it puts Burrow in a lot of obvious passing downs.

[forfreelin04]

On a positive note, if the Bengals win on Sunday they will guarantee themselves .500 for the year. (Barring a tie of course).

That's just wild in itself.

[Rdirtypirates]

On a positive note, if the Bengals win on Sunday they will guarantee themselves .500 for the year. (Barring a tie of course).

That's just wild in itself.

No. This is incorrect. They are 6-4, if they win 7-4. They would need to win 9 games.

[Sea Ray]

On a positive note, if the Bengals win on Sunday they will guarantee themselves .500 for the year. (Barring a tie of course).

That's just wild in itself.

How do you figure? They'd be 7-4 with 6 games left

[forfreelin04]

I'm an idiot. LOL

[Tony Cloninger]

Not saying I agree, but I think the idea is, after tackling a hard runner like Mixon for the entire first half, defenders get tired of tackling him in the 2nd half and that's when he makes his money.


Yes I remember the wear them out with Boobie Clark early then throw in Essex Johnson to run for a long one back in 1973. They did it better in 1986 with Kinnebrew and Brooks and 1988 with Ickey. I wish they would start using Evans more with Mixon moving forward. Still need a better OL to make it work.

[KoryMac5]

Tough game as Pitts is playing better and the Bengals have not reached their peak maybe they get their Sunday.

Key to this game are Wilson and Pratt who Harris will run over if they do not step up.

[Tony Cloninger]

I don’t see Steelers playing better at all. They got bailed out by the Refs in the Bears game. They tied Detroit. They got back in the game with SD because of a tipped INT. They barely beat a Wilson less Seattle team. They are not really a good team at all but their defense helps them get by. They do play the Bengals better on the road then the Bengals play them. I can only hope that the issues that Lewis coached teams had for most of his last 6 years.

[GAC]

IMO, the Bengals SHOULDN'T have any trouble with Pittsburgh. They are a shell of their former selves. Still shaking my head in disbelief that the Browns lost to them. But the Browns had to hold on to get past a terrible Lions team (lol).

[Bob Sheed]

I really like this Stanley Morgan guy.

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2021/11/26/how-stanley-morgan-jr-rised-up-bengals-depth-chart/8722843002/

Main reason being, he is an important cog in the Bengals renewed emphasis on blocking as wide receivers.

[WVRed]

Thaddeus Moss upped to active roster and expected to play tomorrow against Pittsburgh.

Son of Randy and one of Burrows favorite targets at LSU. Nothing to see here?

[KoryMac5]

Thaddeus Moss upped to active roster and expected to play tomorrow against Pittsburgh.

Son of Randy and one of Burrows favorite targets at LSU. Nothing to see here?

I raised my eyebrows when I saw that as well...I don't think they would call him up if they weren't going to use him...maybe a new wrinkle for the team.

[The Operator]

You’ve gotta love Chase.

Laid a huge block on Mixon’s big run.

[The Operator]

“Mixon… oh, he BURROWS his way to the first down…”

CBS heavy with the puns so far.

[The Operator]

Burrow! Scrambles and takes it in for a TD!


I was scared watching it but it was pretty badass.

[The Operator]

Eli Apple!!!!

We never doubted you!!!!

[The Operator]

Weelllll that was a disappointing series with goal to go.

- - - Updated - - -

In any event, 10-0 Bengals

[RiverRat13]

Needed 7 there.

[RiverRat13]

Nice job by Trent Green to show how Burrow could have avoided the sack.

[The Operator]

Higgins!!!!!

[The Operator]

Mixon!!!!! Bengals have a 3-TD lead!!!


Whoever that guy was last week doubting him, well….

- - - Updated - - -

Ah crap they called the TD back.

[The Operator]

24-3 Bengals after Mixon takes it in for real on the very next play.

[The Operator]

Going in for another score before halftime would be huuuuuuge.

[The Operator]

How the hell do you call that OPI on Chase? Ridiculous.

- - - Updated - - -

And of course the very next play is an INT.


God I hate NFL referees.

[The Operator]

And how the hell is that not a flag for TJ Watt horse collaring Burrow repeatedly?

[Kingspoint]

Eat that, WATT!!!!!

Don't forget to swallow!

[The Operator]

Hahahahahaha


Pick Six!!!!!!!!!



Suck it Big Ben!!!

[Reds Freak]

Run it up. Try to score 100.

[WrongVerb]

This is fun.

[OldRightHander]

Pour it on.

[The Operator]

The excuse making from the TV crew after that TJ Watt play was infuriating.


“Well, he’s a great player… he’s gotta be frustrated. That’s frustration coming out”.


Just like Cameron Heyward punching Justin Herbert I am positive nothing will come of this. “Just good old fashioned hard nosed Pittsburgh Steeler football”.

[KoryMac5]

Hopefully this game is a big boost to attendance going forward lots of black and gold in the crowd today.

[RiverRat13]

Hopefully this game is a big boost to attendance going forward lots of black and gold in the crowd today.The Bengals can win 5 straight Super Bowls and there'd still be a large Steeler fan presence for this game.

[WVRed]

Hendrickson forces a fumble and hits Roethlisbergers bum shoulder. He was grimacing in pain afterward.

Something to keep an eye on.

[KoryMac5]

Run it up....leave no doubt!

[KoryMac5]

Can't underestimate how good Hubbard and Hendrickson are on the edge...

So many pundits panned the Bengals for signing Hendrickson...worth every nickel this season.

[KoryMac5]

McPherson is now called Money Mac and I can see why...

[KoryMac5]

Mixon 164 yds. on the day score here and pull some of your starters before Pitts gets cheap...

[KoryMac5]

Mixon with another TD!! 41-3 good guys...

[RiverRat13]

Does the scoreboard really say Cincinnati 41, Pittsburgh 3???

[The Operator]

This has to be the biggest lead The Bengals have ever had against Pittsburgh…. Right?

[KoryMac5]

This has to be the biggest lead The Bengals have ever had against Pittsburgh…. Right?

Yes 42-7 was the largest in 1988

[RiverRat13]

Burrow's day should be done.

[membengal]

Bliss.

[The Operator]

Burrow out of the game. Definitely the right call.

[KoryMac5]

Bliss.

I was not expecting this today...great job all around by the coaching staff getting the team ready to play.

[KoryMac5]

Bengals were at 6.5 wins on the over/under this season...Congrats if you took the over!

[The Operator]

What on earth was Phillips doing there? Bizarre.

[Tony Cloninger]

I hope he does not follow the Lewis mantra of trying to establish the run on the Steelers. They’re defense seems to be designed to never allow anyone to run on them. No matter how hard you try. Especially with this OL that is not good at run blocking as a group.


Terrible take and post. Negative thumbs ups.

[Playadlc]

Pittsburgh leaving their starters in against the Bengals back ups is such great satisfaction.

[KoryMac5]

Terrible take and post. Negative thumbs ups.

Once I saw their good run stopping NT was out today I figured it would be fairly easy sledding for Mixon. Mixon could have gone for 200 today on that D.

[Playadlc]

Pitt calls a timeout. Haha. This is good stuff.

[Kingspoint]

Go Browns!!!

[The Operator]

What a great game.

I needed that. I really did.

[UKFlounder]

From 5-2 to 5-4 to 7-4 - a roller coaster, but today was incredible

[Bob Sheed]

Man, and I thought the Ravens game was awesome...

This one made me want to watch the Steelers post game presser. :lol:

[dubc47834]

Congrats to you Bengal fans out there. Looks like they finally are getting it right!!!

[Reds Freak]

Seven total wins this season seemed about the ceiling, especially with the uncertainty around Burrow's recovery. But now we're greedy. Give us 10, Bengals.

[KoryMac5]

Seven total wins this season seemed about the ceiling, especially with the uncertainty around Burrow's recovery. But now we're greedy. Give us 10, Bengals.

17 game season 10 wins was definitely possible if things broke right for the team...

Chase being drafted 5th was huge...and the FA signings have panned out.

[membengal]

Adeniji getting back and solidifying RG the last three weeks has been huge.

[UKFlounder]

McPherson’s importance is pretty incredible so far too. Not saying he’s as important as Chase, but they’re relying on him quite a bit. (I hope they don’t grow too reliant - TDs are still the goal.)



17 game season 10 wins was definitely possible if things broke right for the team...

Chase being drafted 5th was huge...and the FA signings have panned out.

[KoryMac5]

It's a fun team to watch...I also think Taylor is starting to come into his own as well. I always felt the David Shula comparisons were cheap...glad the Bengals were patient with him.

[Tony Cloninger]

Once I saw their good run stopping NT was out today I figured it would be fairly easy sledding for Mixon. Mixon could have gone for 200 today on that D.

I did not know that. That helped a lot.

[pedro]

It's a fun team to watch...I also think Taylor is starting to come into his own as well. I always felt the David Shula comparisons were cheap...glad the Bengals were patient with him.

I know a lot of fans give Taylor grief and honestly I don’t follow closely enough to have much of an opinion but it does strike me that the almost total lack of penalties speaks well of the coaching.

[KoryMac5]

I know a lot of fans give Taylor grief and honestly I don’t follow closely enough to have much of an opinion but it does strike me that the almost total lack of penalties speaks well of the coaching.

His play calling can be a bit tough at times...but I chalk that up to the early O line issues and him getting to know Burrow better.

[Kingspoint]

What was squealers' coach Tummykins explanation for having his Starters in down 38 points late in the game?

[membengal]

What was squealers' coach Tummykins explanation for having his Starters in down 38 points late in the game?

He won't say, but it was totally Boyd living rent free in his head for Boyd's "Steelers quit" comments after the first game.

[KoryMac5]

Loved the Mixon Temptations celebration...Spain came up with the idea.

[The Operator]

Drew Brees just listed The Bengals when asked who the most complete team in the AFC was.


Trying not to get over excited here, especially after all the praise The Bengals got after beating The Ravens and then losing 2 straight, but it’s still nice to hear media types praise the boys.

[KoryMac5]

Next few games are tough...Chargers, 49ers, Broncos...all run the ball really well. I feel the Bengals are a more complete team top to bottom and should win 2 of the 3.

[RiverfrontRed]

As a Steelers fan, your team whipped our butt this year. Burrow looks like the real deal. Must be nice to turn the tables after all those losses to the Steelers over the years. Congrats and good luck the rest of the season. Anybody but the Ravens and the Browns - can't stand either.

[KoryMac5]

As a Steelers fan, your team whipped our butt this year. Burrow looks like the real deal. Must be nice to turn the tables after all those losses to the Steelers over the years. Congrats and good luck the rest of the season. Anybody but the Ravens and the Browns - can't stand either.

It's going to be a dark 4-5 years for Pitts...

[WVRed]

It's going to be a dark 4-5 years for Pitts...

Not even close.

They are one good QB away from being a legit threat. They can get that in FA or trade and draft O-Line help. My money is on Aaron Rodgers.

I’m enjoying beating the Steelers just like I’m enjoying UK football this year because the success isn’t going to last forever.

Pittsburgh will make adjustments and be back. They always do.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Pittsburgh will make adjustments and be back. They always do.

Lots of holes on that team, and I'm not sure Mike Tomlin is the guy to get them over the hump.

They have turned over the roster nearly completely aside from Big Ben, but the talent level will have to be addressed before they're competitive.

[WVRed]

Lots of holes on that team, and I'm not sure Mike Tomlin is the guy to get them over the hump.

They have turned over the roster nearly completely aside from Big Ben, but the talent level will have to be addressed before they're competitive.

Agree on Tomlin.

Talent is there but it’s mostly at skill positions. Najee at RB, Diontae and Claypool at receiver. Friermuth at TE.

Defense has Devin Bush, TJ Watt, and Minkah Fitzpatrick.

Trenches is where football is won and that’s where Pittsburgh needs the most help outside of QB. The DL is aging and the OL needs help.

[Playadlc]

Joe Burrow:

What's the significance of beating the Steelers twice in a season?

”We're 2-0 against them. We have higher aspirations than beating the Steelers right now.”

[The Operator]

Joe Burrow:

What's the significance of beating the Steelers twice in a season?

”We're 2-0 against them. We have higher aspirations than beating the Steelers right now.”
And that right there is one of the big differences between this Bengals team and past “good” Bengals teams.

The 2009 team swept the AFC North and beating the Steelers twice was widely celebrated. It really does seem like this team just isn’t intimated by the Steelers, Ravens or anyone else.

They might not always win, but they go into games expecting to win and that’s big.

[RiverRat13]

Agree on Tomlin.

Talent is there but it’s mostly at skill positions. Najee at RB, Diontae and Claypool at receiver. Friermuth at TE.

Defense has Devin Bush, TJ Watt, and Minkah Fitzpatrick.

Trenches is where football is won and that’s where Pittsburgh needs the most help outside of QB. The DL is aging and the OL needs help.Devin Bush is awful. The WRs are decent but lack a #1 guy.

[Stray]

That was as satisfying of a Bengals game as I've ever watched. We could have won by 50 if we wanted to.

But man, it's not looking good for Big Ben out there. He looks like he's 50 years old. I'm not sure where they'll be picking, but I hope Ridder doesn't end up there. I'd hate to root against him as a pro.

[Stray]

One thing that sticks out, even in our bad games, is how disciplined this team is. We don't beat ourselves with penalties or stupid mistakes. They're very well coached. Taylor should be in consideration for coach of the year.

[Stray]

How did this Browns team blow us out? Goodness tonight's game was ugly

[RedTeamGo!]

How did this Browns team blow us out? Goodness tonight's game was ugly

NFL is weird. Matchups are huge.

[Stray]

The good news is there isn't a team in the NFL that we can't beat. Especially in the AFC. Pats are very good but the AFC is wide open. We're good enough to beat anyone.

[GAC]

How did this Browns team blow us out? Goodness tonight's game was ugly

I watched both the Bengal's and the Brown's games yesterday ... and last night I'm shaking my head, as I'm watching this undisciplined, uninspiring, quiet boring, performance by both the Browns and Ravens ... while watching earlier the Bengals totally humiliating the Steelers .. and wondering how the Browns lost to these Steelers? WTH is going on in the AFC North?

Ravens lose big to Bengals .... Bengals lose big to Browns .... Browns lose to Ravens. The Ravens still have both their contests vs the Steelers coming up, and I'm not going to say how either of those games will turn out. LOL

The remaining schedule for the Browns and Steelers, IMO, is brutal. I see neither having a chance. I think the Bengals are the team to beat. And based on their remaining schedule vs the others in the division, I think they're in the driver's seat.

[KoryMac5]

Not even close.

They are one good QB away from being a legit threat. They can get that in FA or trade and draft O-Line help. My money is on Aaron Rodgers.

I’m enjoying beating the Steelers just like I’m enjoying UK football this year because the success isn’t going to last forever.

Pittsburgh will make adjustments and be back. They always do.

You make it sound easy to find a QB...it's not...franchise QB's are not readily available and Rudolph was an absolute bust.

They have some pieces on defense and a good young running back and wide out however finding someone to replace Ben is a monumental task.

[KoryMac5]

How did this Browns team blow us out? Goodness tonight's game was ugly

When you don't tackle bad things happen...

[GAC]

The Steeler's offensive line is terrible and an absolute mess. Start there. ;)

[oregonred]

Not even close.

They are one good QB away from being a legit threat. They can get that in FA or trade and draft O-Line help. My money is on Aaron Rodgers.

I’m enjoying beating the Steelers just like I’m enjoying UK football this year because the success isn’t going to last forever.

Pittsburgh will make adjustments and be back. They always do.

There is no way Rodgers is leaving the Qb poor, cream puff NFC North and NFC to play in the AFC North with Lamar, Burrow and Cleveland 6x per year. The AFC is loaded with young QBs and up and coming teams.

Wilson could be interesting. If the path is a Super Bowl, much easier routes than coming into the AFC North for the next few years.

[RiverRat13]

There is no way Rodgers is leaving the Qb poor, cream puff NFC North and NFC to play in the AFC North with Lamar, Burrow and Cleveland 6x per year. The AFC is loaded with young QBs and up and coming teams.

Wilson could be interesting. If the path is a Super Bowl, much easier routes than coming into the AFC North for the next few years.

And both have to be traded. Pittsburgh doesn't have the assets to outbid anyone unless they give up an insane amount of picks, which would leave them without an opportunity to get better elsewhere. I still think Rodgers ends up a Bronco and Wilson a Giant. Philly is the team best positioned to get either one with 3 first round picks this year.

[WVRed]

You make it sound easy to find a QB...it's not...franchise QB's are not readily available and Rudolph was an absolute bust.

They have some pieces on defense and a good young running back and wide out however finding someone to replace Ben is a monumental task.

Honestly Pittsburgh doesn’t even need a franchise QB. They just need someone who is a step up from Roethlisberger.

I’m not talking about Big Ben five or ten years ago, I’m talking about now.

I think Jimmy G could quarterback this team into the playoffs. That’s how bad Ben is right now.

[WVRed]

And both have to be traded. Pittsburgh doesn't have the assets to outbid anyone unless they give up an insane amount of picks, which would leave them without an opportunity to get better elsewhere. I still think Rodgers ends up a Bronco and Wilson a Giant. Philly is the team best positioned to get either one with 3 first round picks this year.

Didn’t Rodgers rework his contract to where he is a FA after this season?

[Sea Ray]

Didn’t Rodgers rework his contract to where he is a FA after this season?

I think it's after next season

[membengal]

I know the Burrow picks have seemed like a lot - but I really had not paid much attention to the rest of the league and how INTs are going this year - feels like the rate is up...so I went looking and...

Here are the top 15 QBs in terms of most INTS...

Tannehill 14 TDs and 13 INTs

Jackson 15 TDs and 12 INTs

Burrow 22 TDs and 12 INTs

Ryan 16 TDs and 11 INTs

Mahomes 25 TDs and 11 INTs

Darnold 7 TDs and 11 INTs

Wilson 4 TDs and 10 INTs

Lawrence 9 TDs and 10 INTs

Herbert 24 TDs and 10 INTs

Allen 25 TDs and 10 INTs

Stafford 27 TDs and 9 INTs

Heinicke 11 TDs and 9 INTs

Carr 16 TDs and 9 INTs

Brady 30 TDs and 9 INTs

Burrow's passer rating is 101.6. On the above list, only Stafford and Brady have better passer ratings.

All of which is to say, Burrow has been quite damn good, yesterday and this year. Better than I probably have realized.

[KoryMac5]

Honestly Pittsburgh doesn’t even need a franchise QB. They just need someone who is a step up from Roethlisberger.

I’m not talking about Big Ben five or ten years ago, I’m talking about now.

I think Jimmy G could quarterback this team into the playoffs. That’s how bad Ben is right now.

That is not a bad thought and the price is going up the way he has been playing...

Pitts would have to give up picks and I would think SF will ask for a 1st...plus you have to extend him as he is an FA after 2022.

[WVRed]

That is not a bad thought and the price is going up the way he has been playing...

Pitts would have to give up picks and I would think SF will ask for a 1st...plus you have to extend him as he is an FA after 2022.

Let’s assume SF settles for a 2nd and Pittsburgh uses that first round pick on a OL. Tyler Linderbaum or Darian Kinnard would be good fits there.

The Steelers are just not a team to write off. I actually thought they’d make a jump after their start but that wasn’t the case. They make adjustments and hit better on late round/undrafted talent than anybody else in the league.

[membengal]

Random thoughts rattling around my brain:

---I am under-appreciating how much of a leap Burrow is in the process of taking and have to keep reminding myself of the uncertainty surrounding how effective he would be given the recovery from the knee injury. He's magnificent. These are the good days and I am still processing that.
---I mentioned this in other posts, but Adeniji has absolutely stabilized the line - and you can see them gelling now as a unit (something that would only come with time and a chance to play together as a group)
---I cannot say enough in praise of what Hendrickson has brought the line - or in how good a complement to what Hendrickson does that Hubbard is on the other side
---Much better tackling day from the LBers in this one
---Was fun as hell to watch the D disguising looks and confusing both Ben and his receivers in this one
---I really do think the work that ZT and Callahan have put into the master plan on offense is evident now. They are fully capable of beating the crap out of opposing defenses in a variety of ways which should make it hard to ever completely shut us down. Two high shell? Fine, Mixon to bludgeon you. Bring a safety up but roll coverage to Chase? Fine, Higgins to bludgeon you. Can't take Chase fully away because they can scheme him short. Boyd and Chase forever doing dirty work blocking too. Uzomah and Sample as well. And Uzomah available for passes to move sticks. And a rapidly improving line in front of all that. I am delighted. DELIGHTED.

[RedTeamGo!]

I am absolutely loving watching Roehtlisberger be horrible and get his ass kicked this season. Legit better than watching my favorite teams win.

[RichRed]

Burrow's passer rating is 101.6. On the above list, only Stafford and Brady have better passer ratings.

All of which is to say, Burrow has been quite damn good, yesterday and this year. Better than I probably have realized.

PFF also has Burrow ranked as the 3rd best QB, FWIW. He’s been really impressive and fun to watch. I hope Bengals fans savor the fact that they’ve struck gold with a franchise QB, something many teams go decades without finding.

[RedTeamGo!]

Darnold 7 TDs and 11 INTs


Good gravy!

Darnold is going to be a great car dealership owner in 2 years

[Sea Ray]

Aside from all the INTs, there were tons of incomplete passes last night. It was comical after awhile

[KoryMac5]

Let’s assume SF settles for a 2nd and Pittsburgh uses that first round pick on a OL. Tyler Linderbaum or Darian Kinnard would be good fits there.

The Steelers are just not a team to write off. I actually thought they’d make a jump after their start but that wasn’t the case. They make adjustments and hit better on late round/undrafted talent than anybody else in the league.

The Steelers hit on Ben and rode that horse for 15 yrs they really haven't had to reload at QB in quite some time, they tried with Rudolph and he busted. It's not just that position though they need a complete overhaul of their O line, which has been awful for 2 years now. That could take another 2-3 years depending on how their drafts and FA turn out.

Garapolo doesn't move the needle much for me though in making them contenders...he is a guy that can get you to the 1st round of the playoffs. Not sure I would want to pay that contract extension for what you are going to get.

[KoryMac5]

PFF grades on Offense:

Highest-graded Bengals on offense in the Week 12 beating of Pittsburgh:

1. Joe Burrow - 91.9
2. Tee Higgins - 89.6
3. Isaiah Prince - 76.6
4. Quinton Spain - 74.5
5. Joe Mixon - 73.9

Prince is a guy I find to be really interesting...

[Hillsdale87]

PFF grades on Offense:

Highest-graded Bengals on offense in the Week 12 beating of Pittsburgh:

1. Joe Burrow - 91.9
2. Tee Higgins - 89.6
3. Isaiah Prince - 76.6
4. Quinton Spain - 74.5
5. Joe Mixon - 73.9

Prince is a guy I find to be really interesting...

Prince could be interesting. I think he was a projected first round pick going into his last year at OSU and then was very disappointing and dropped to the 7th round. The skills are there if a coach can get it out of him.

[Hillsdale87]

Random thoughts rattling around my brain:

---I am under-appreciating how much of a leap Burrow is in the process of taking and have to keep reminding myself of the uncertainty surrounding how effective he would be given the recovery from the knee injury. He's magnificent. These are the good days and I am still processing that.
---I mentioned this in other threads, but Adeniji has absolutely stabilized the line - and you can see them gelling now as a unit (something that would only come with time and a chance to play together as a group)
---I cannot say enough in praise of what Hendrickson has brought the line - or in how good a complement to what Hendrickson does that Hubbard is on the other side
---Much better tackling day from the LBers in this one
---Was fun as hell to watch the D disguising looks and confusing both Ben and his receivers in this one
---I really do think the work that ZT and Callahan have put into the master plan on offense is evident now. They are fully capable of beating the crap out of opposing defenses in a variety of ways which should make it hard to ever completely shut us down. Two high shell? Fine, Mixon to bludgeon you. Bring a safety up but roll coverage to Chase? Fine, Higgins to bludgeon you. Can't take Chase fully away because they can scheme him short. Boyd and Chase forever doing dirty work blocking too. Uzomah and Sample as well. And Uzomah available for passes to move sticks. And a rapidly improving line in front of all that. I am delighted. DELIGHTED.

I'm definitely guilty of judging Burrow too harshly at times considering his relative inexperience and injury recovery. I've always thought he was great, but I get frustrated when I see some of the bad plays, like taking that sack on 3rd down from the 1 yesterday. The reality is that he is so far ahead of where most guys are 20 games into their careers (especially when you throw in the ACL), and it's foolish not to expect some of those plays from time to time. But the improvements he has made from the beginning of this season are so encouraging. Feels great to have a QB who you can be confident in.

Everything was clicking yesterday. It's so strange how we can have some performances like the Steelers and Ravens games where everything feels easy and receivers are breaking open everywhere, and then games where the offense feels stuck in the mud. I thought the Ravens game was where the team got over the hump and would be a dominant offense going forward. It's been a few rough weeks since, but hopefully this is now where everything clicks going forward.

[membengal]

The difference now from a few weeks ago is Adeniji's arrival into the starting line-up and what that line is starting to look like as a run blocking unit. That's an extra aspect to this that wasn't in place earlier in the year even as they were running more to try an ease Burrow into things.

[membengal]

On that note...


Charlie Goldsmith
@CharlieG__
·
38m
One more note on the Bengals win over the Steelers.

I counted 16 pancake blocks in the run game when the first team offense was in the game. Those 16 blocks came from 10 different players.

RG Hakeem Adeniji led the way with four. The second-year player is making big strides.

[KoryMac5]

Many of us thought RG was the biggest hole on the team Adeniji has really stabilized the line...from what I have read he spends a great deal of time studying film and the nuances of the playbook, very high football IQ.

[oregonred]

That would be incredible fortune to hit on both Adeniji and Prince as a potential RT after this season. Hopkins should be getting better as the knee rehab continues. Lapham has to be loving KU alum Adeniji in the starting lineup.

Given Week 12, suddenly the Oline depth looks better than we could have hoped for going into the season

[bucksfan2]

That game sure was fun after watching my bucks lay an egg the day before.

Burrow has improved nicely. I kinda thought his season would go like this, a little slow at the start, then he would really start rounding into form later in the season. He has barely played a full season in the NFL, and the more experience he gets the better he plays.

I was dead wrong about Chase's development. I thought he would have been a slow starter due to missing the entire year last year. Guys has been great.

Tee finally with a big day, seemed like we were waiting all season for that.

The Bengals did a nice job in building the defense through Free Agency. The Hendrickson signing was somewhat panned and the guy has been great.

I thought they wasted a pick on McPherson, but guy has been great. Nice to have Justin Turner on your team!

Zac Taylor caught a lot of flack over the past two season. A lot of it rightfully so, but he seems to be rounding into form as a play caller and head coach.

The Steelers are done, toast, finished. Big Ben is done, toast, finished as well. Could you imagine what Tomlin would have said had the Bengals used a TO to score a meaningless TD late in a blowout?

[Sea Ray]

That game sure was fun after watching my bucks lay an egg the day before.

Burrow has improved nicely. I kinda thought his season would go like this, a little slow at the start, then he would really start rounding into form later in the season. He has barely played a full season in the NFL, and the more experience he gets the better he plays.

I was dead wrong about Chase's development. I thought he would have been a slow starter due to missing the entire year last year. Guys has been great.

Tee finally with a big day, seemed like we were waiting all season for that.

The Bengals did a nice job in building the defense through Free Agency. The Hendrickson signing was somewhat panned and the guy has been great.

I thought they wasted a pick on McPherson, but guy has been great. Nice to have Justin Turner on your team!

Zac Taylor caught a lot of flack over the past two season. A lot of it rightfully so, but he seems to be rounding into form as a play caller and head coach.

The Steelers are done, toast, finished. Big Ben is done, toast, finished as well. Could you imagine what Tomlin would have said had the Bengals used a TO to score a meaningless TD late in a blowout?

What was hilarious is that Tomlin's team had to work that hard for a TD vs our backups. Their first series vs our backups they had to punt

[KoryMac5]

Highest-graded Bengals on defense in the beatdown of Pittsburgh:

1. Mike Hilton - 92.4
2. Trey Hendrickson - 90.9
3. Michael Thomas - 83.3
4. B.J. Hill - 76.2
5. Eli Apple - 73.7
6. Jessie Bates - 73.1


Also Thadeus moss suffered a significant hamstring injury in warm ups...I was wondering why we did not see him yesterday.

[RiverRat13]

https://twitter.com/JoeGoodberry/status/1465422205114851328?t=Djw9k9lAQgb707QHK3dOtg&s=19

[Redsfaithful]

I hope Bengals fans savor the fact that they’ve struck gold with a franchise QB, something many teams go decades without finding.

And then add on that he's from Athens. It's a dream.

[Todd Gack]

Random thoughts rattling around my brain:

---I am under-appreciating how much of a leap Burrow is in the process of taking and have to keep reminding myself of the uncertainty surrounding how effective he would be given the recovery from the knee injury. He's magnificent. These are the good days and I am still processing that.
---I mentioned this in other posts, but Adeniji has absolutely stabilized the line - and you can see them gelling now as a unit (something that would only come with time and a chance to play together as a group)
---I cannot say enough in praise of what Hendrickson has brought the line - or in how good a complement to what Hendrickson does that Hubbard is on the other side
---Much better tackling day from the LBers in this one
---Was fun as hell to watch the D disguising looks and confusing both Ben and his receivers in this one
---I really do think the work that ZT and Callahan have put into the master plan on offense is evident now. They are fully capable of beating the crap out of opposing defenses in a variety of ways which should make it hard to ever completely shut us down. Two high shell? Fine, Mixon to bludgeon you. Bring a safety up but roll coverage to Chase? Fine, Higgins to bludgeon you. Can't take Chase fully away because they can scheme him short. Boyd and Chase forever doing dirty work blocking too. Uzomah and Sample as well. And Uzomah available for passes to move sticks. And a rapidly improving line in front of all that. I am delighted. DELIGHTED.

Congrats to Membengal back to Redszone after being absent after losing to some of the worst teams in the league. True Bengals fan. LOL.

[Todd Gack]

The difference now from a few weeks ago is Adeniji's arrival into the starting line-up and what that line is starting to look like as a run blocking unit. That's an extra aspect to this that wasn't in place earlier in the year even as they were running more to try an ease Burrow into things.

The difference is that Zac figured out that Joey B can't win a game by himself and he needs Joey M to help him. Sorry, but it's true. Mixon has always been underrated. . . no matter how much of a homophobe he is. The dude runs harder than anyone else in the league.

[Redsfaithful]

Burrow is a top 5 QB, he's for sure capable of winning games by himself.

I can't wait to see the kid in the playoffs. Totally different mindset from Carson and Dalton.

[Todd Gack]

Burrow is a top 5 QB, he's for sure capable of winning games by himself.

I can't wait to see the kid in the playoffs. Totally different mindset from Carson and Dalton.

He's better than Carson and Dalton for sure and potential to be an All-Timer. But what games has be won himself so far?

Not trying to be a troll by any means, but he's not there. . . .yet. To me, he's not in the Mahomes, Rodgers, Brady, Brees, etc category. . .. yet. He will need Joe to get there.

[oregonred]

Not trying to be a troll by any means, but he's not there. . . .yet.

This is rich :)

[Todd Gack]

This is rich :)

It's OK to not be a homer.

[Bob Sheed]

I was as hard on Taylor as anyone and the more wrong I am about that, the more awesome it is.

[Todd Gack]

I was as hard on Taylor as anyone and the more wrong I am about that, the more awesome it is.

One thing I've learned about being a Bengals fan is that this fanbase still has no idea how to handle success because we've had none. Instead of looking at the big picture, we want to focus on the the short term. Taylor will continue to make mistakes because it's Zac Taylor. He still thinks he's smarter than everyone else which is his biggest issue. He's just been lucky that Mike Brown is taking longer eating his oatmeal in the morning and Katie and Company have had more time to run a real NFL organization.

[Redsfaithful]

I was as hard on Taylor as anyone and the more wrong I am about that, the more awesome it is.

Yeah, he's solid, I was very wrong here. Or, we were right, but he's grown as a coach, which is what you hope for.

[Kingspoint]

Sounds like Deebo Samuel could miss the Bengals' game.

[Kingspoint]

Over/Under for Total Rushing Yards vs the league-worst Chargers Run Defense should be about 195. I'll take the Over....by about 65 yards.

[Kingspoint]

Highest-graded Bengals on defense in the beatdown of Pittsburgh:

1. Mike Hilton - 92.4
2. Trey Hendrickson - 90.9
3. Michael Thomas - 83.3
4. B.J. Hill - 76.2
5. Eli Apple - 73.7
6. Jessie Bates - 73.1


Also Thadeus moss suffered a significant hamstring injury in warm ups...I was wondering why we did not see him yesterday.

A 92.4 and 90.9! Tremendous!

[Kingspoint]

Remember when coming out of bye's it was a gauranteed loss for Marvin? ('Adjustments' was not a term he was familiar with.)

We look better than ever coming out of this bye.

[GAC]

I am absolutely loving watching Roehtlisberger be horrible and get his ass kicked this season. Legit better than watching my favorite teams win.

I always respected what he did on the playing field. The Browns passed on him (lol). He'll be in the HOF.

[KoryMac5]

He's better than Carson and Dalton for sure and potential to be an All-Timer. But what games has be won himself so far?

Not trying to be a troll by any means, but he's not there. . . .yet. To me, he's not in the Mahomes, Rodgers, Brady, Brees, etc category. . .. yet. He will need Joe to get there.

Mahomes has Kelce and Hill...Rodgers has Adams and Jones...Brady had Gronk and Moss...now he has Evans and Brown...Brees had Thomas and Kamara....none of these guys did it exactly on their own.

Burrow is playing well and the surrounding cast including the offensive line is getting better each week....there is a lot to be excited for. I for one am going to ride the wave of destroying Pitts for a few days.

[oregonred]

The schedule is just tough the rest of the way. Looking through the rest of the AFC contenders outside the AFC North it looks much easier.

Even the last place #17 crossover game vs. the 2020 last place 49ers suddenly looks like a tough one against a physical team.

The only positive is the Bengals seem to have played better against the top teams. In addition to the rest of the AFC North having a tough sled the rest of the way (Baltimore with four AFC North games + GB and the Rams). Need the Steelers and Browns to find a way to split with the Ravens. The Chargers game becomes important with potential WC tiebreakers down the road.

[KoryMac5]

Agreed the schedule is tough, they need to convert all of those home games into W's...Herbert and his scrambling ability worry me a bit this week.

Supposedly they simplified the Defense during the bye so we will see if what we saw last week was more like the first few weeks of the season

[Reds Freak]

The schedule is just tough the rest of the way. Looking through the rest of the AFC contenders outside the AFC North it looks much easier.

Even the last place #17 crossover game vs. the 2020 last place 49ers suddenly looks like a tough one against a physical team.

The only positive is the Bengals seem to have played better against the top teams. In addition to the rest of the AFC North having a tough sled the rest of the way (Baltimore with four AFC North games + GB and the Rams). Need the Steelers and Browns to find a way to split with the Ravens. The Chargers game becomes important with potential WC tiebreakers down the road.

I don't trust remaining strength of schedule rankings after all we heard this summer was about the easy road the Reds had in September. You're right, I think the Bengals can beat anybody so I don't schedule strength is a factor.

[Bob Sheed]

It's all about the matchups.

Chargers run defense is suspect. It's tough to steal games on the road.

I say 23-17 Bengals, if it's good QB weather. If bad weather, I expect Herbert to be the difference as the Bengals D lets him either run all over them or 15 yard personal foul penalties, or both. Sloppy conditions + Mobile QB + NFL rules on "tackling" QBs = 24-13 Chargers.