Cincinnati Bengals 2021 Part V

[WVRed]

New thread.

[KoryMac5]

PFF grades


1️⃣ Joe Burrow, QB- 90.6
2️⃣ Jessie Bates III, S- 83.7
3️⃣ Tee Higgins, WR- 82.3
4️⃣ Chidobe Awuzie, CB- 80.1
5️⃣ Ja’Marr Chase, WR- 73.6

The O line was awful mid 50's to mid 20's

[bucksfan2]

PFF grades


1️⃣ Joe Burrow, QB- 90.6
2️⃣ Jessie Bates III, S- 83.7
3️⃣ Tee Higgins, WR- 82.3
4️⃣ Chidobe Awuzie, CB- 80.1
5️⃣ Ja’Marr Chase, WR- 73.6

The O line was awful mid 50's to mid 20's

They struggled to stop Bosa. He was able to create pressure more often than not. The 49ers secondary was terrible, but the Bengals weren't able to give Burrow enough protection to really take advantage of that.

[Hillsdale87]

The problem with the playcalling on the OT drive was that it just revealed an overall lack of plan. Like Taylor just ran it for the sake of running the ball. If you're going to run it twice, then you should be doing that thinking that it's 4 down territory. But it all seemed random.

There was no reason to run it anyway though. The 49ers weren't going to get 3 straight stops against Burrow and the WRs.

[WVRed]

Waiting on my car to get fixed so I did a mock on PFN to kill time:

1. Tyler Linderbaum (C-Iowa)
2. Zion Johnson (G-Boston College)
3. Zach Harrison (Edge-Ohio State)
4a. Tykee Smith (S-Georgia)
4b. Jeremy Ruckert (TE-Ohio State)
5. George Pickens (WR-Georgia)
6. Mac Mitchell (OT-Louisiana)
7. Bubba Bolden (S-Miami)

[Bob Sheed]

Double TE sets? Put an extra lineman in at TE? Run and pass out of the Jumbo sets and triple team Bosa if you have to. Anything besides doing the same thing over and over again that isn't working.

As many others have said already... Taylor was outcoached again last Sunday.

[KoryMac5]

Double TE sets? Put an extra lineman in at TE? Run and pass out of the Jumbo sets and triple team Bosa if you have to. Anything besides doing the same thing over and over again that isn't working.

As many others have said already... Taylor was outcoached again last Sunday.

He outcoached himself and the team shot themselves in the foot...it's not like Shanny out schemed him...

I know earlier in the year they did put Prince at the extra TE spot but with Reiffs injury they probably went away from being able to do that.

[Fil3232]

Taylor deserves some criticism for a few play calls and not having the team ready to compete from the very start, but I don’t think he was out there committing coaching malpractice to any extent. At a certain point players need to execute, and there are plenty of examples from the last couple of weeks where guys couldn’t make plays that have zero to do with coaching.

I’m also taking this playoff run as gravy. I think this team is a year early and with the 2022 draft + free agency the window opens in earnest next season.

[GAC]

Alright! The Bengals get another shot at taking over 1st Place in the AFC North next weekend. Not sure if Jackson is playing or not, but I don't see Baltimore beating GB. Bengals need this win in Denver.

[bucksfan2]

If Vonn Bell picks off a pass he should pick off, are we talking about this?

[Reds Freak]

I feel like I'm in a very healthy relationship with the Bengals now. I follow, watch the games when I can, but don't get emotionally involved or worked up like I used to.

I know it's annoying they let a few chances slip away the last couple weeks, but eight of this weekend's 16 games have playoff implications for the Bengals. That's pretty entertaining, much more fun than the last five years obviously.

[Redsfaithful]

Zac Taylor agrees with me:


Asked Monday if he did, in fact, lose any sleep, Taylor once again responded as if he were hooked to a polygraph: “Yeah, I did. Yeah. Here’s what you look at. You rewatch the game, and our team did a lot of outstanding things to go win the football game. I look at all the offensive plays the offense made there, in particular in the fourth quarter and overtime, and everybody stepped up and made plays, so where could I have been different? Two things can be true. You can believe in your run game and your running back and offensive line, and you can also put the ball in your quarterback’s hands because in 15 years we think this guy, we think we are going to look back and he’s going to be a Hall of Fame-type quarterback. Give him a chance to win the game.”

Still a young coach, hopefully he learns here.

[Sea Ray]

Zac Taylor agrees with me:



Still a young coach, hopefully he learns here.

He's definitely still learning on the job but I also think he oughta look long and hard about giving up play calling duties next year

[Bob Sheed]

“In critical situations, I would much rather go to our best players rather than to run a certain play against a certain scheme. To me, in the end, I want to give our best players—our toughest, smartest, most dependable players—an opportunity to win the game.” -Bill Belichick

[KoryMac5]

If Vonn Bell picks off a pass he should pick off, are we talking about this?

Bates but I get your overall point…

I still think there would be handwringing over the slow starts and o line issues.

[Hillsdale87]

“In critical situations, I would much rather go to our best players rather than to run a certain play against a certain scheme. To me, in the end, I want to give our best players—our toughest, smartest, most dependable players—an opportunity to win the game.” -Bill Belichick

Yeah, well what does he know?!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Hillsdale87]

If Vonn Bell picks off a pass he should pick off, are we talking about this?

Yes I think there would and should be. IMO the Bengals should have been 10+ points better than the 49ers on Sunday. They basically handed them 10 points with the muffed punts, had to kick 2 short FGs in the red zone when the arguably should have gone for it on 4th down, missed a chip shot FG, and called a terrible, conservative offensive game. The Bengals best players are at QB and WR. The 49ers worst players are in the secondary. When they finally pressed their advantage in the 4th quarter, they marched down the field and scored 2 TDs. That was there all game.

I'm glad to see Taylor's comments about Burrow because it's time to take the reigns off and treat him like the elite QB he is. Hopefully this week wakes him up. He's the #2 PFF QB on the year. He provides a QB advantage almost every game and will be the best QB in 3 of 4 games down the stretch. If you're going to lose, go down with him


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Hillsdale87]

He's definitely still learning on the job but I also think he oughta look long and hard about giving up play calling duties next year

For sure. He may be a good play caller, but it's hard to balance playcalling and being the head coach. He seems like a good head coach and the players love him. But it might help to have somebody solely focused on the offense


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Fil3232]

The Niners went off as 2.5 pt favorites last weekend. While I love Burrow and the way this team is progressing, I think expectations have gotten a bit inflated.

[KoryMac5]

The Niners went off as 2.5 pt favorites last weekend. While I love Burrow and the way this team is progressing, I think expectations have gotten a bit inflated.

It's nice to be competitive after the last few seasons of blah...they now have to take that next step and start winning these close games.

[KoryMac5]

PFF CIN Bengals
@PFF_Bengals
·
5h
Highest-graded #Bengals through 13 games (min. 325 snaps):

1️⃣ Joe Burrow, QB- 90.0
2️⃣ Tee Higgins, WR- 82.3
3️⃣ Joe Mixon, RB- 81.0
4️⃣ D.J. Reader, DI- 80.7
5️⃣ Chidobe Awuzie, CB- 80.2

Shows a nice mix of drafting, resigning your own, and free agent pick ups.

[Fil3232]

It's nice to be competitive after the last few seasons of blah...they now have to take that next step and start winning these close games.

Sure. And that’s a process. I think Taylor, Burrow and all the rest are in the midst of that right now.

[Redsfaithful]

The Niners went off as 2.5 pt favorites last weekend. While I love Burrow and the way this team is progressing, I think expectations have gotten a bit inflated.

I think a lot of that line was uncertainty over Burrow's finger and the OL injury issues.

If Taylor had called an aggressive passing game I think they probably win by 2 TDs.

[Fil3232]

Or Bosa knocks him out of the game midway thru the 3Q. That’s the elephant in the room—they’re not protecting him all that well still.

[KoryMac5]

Or Bosa knocks him out of the game midway thru the 3Q. That’s the elephant in the room—they’re not protecting him all that well still.

on pace for 50+ sacks...you really have Spain and Williams...Reif has been solid but injuries are hindering his production. RG is a huge black hole and revolving door.

[Redsfaithful]

Or Bosa knocks him out of the game midway thru the 3Q. That’s the elephant in the room—they’re not protecting him all that well still.

he was ripping under pressure though, like 11/12 or something

[gonelong]

Joe needs a solid line. He doesn't have that yet. He also needs to learn to toss a 2nd-5 a mile out of bound when an unblocked rusher is bearing down on him instead of taking a sack. Joe has to do that. 3rd and 5? I take my chances with Joe. 3rd and 15? Ouch. He *has* to learn not every single play can be a touchdown. Live to for the percentages. Until he learns that, not fully invested.

[Kingspoint]

I think a lot of that line was uncertainty over Burrow's finger and the OL injury issues.

If Taylor had called an aggressive passing game I think they probably win by 2 TDs.

...and the unexpected return of Deebo.

Yes. Waiting until the 2nd Half to throw the ball to Chase and Higgins when the Niners were missing major secondary pieces was shooting themselves in the foot.

[Kingspoint]

Riley Rieff is not the answer at RT. We still need to draft a 1st Rd OT. I would still try to resign Rieff while that 1st Rd OT tries to win a spot on the line at LG or RG before eventually moving over to RT.

[Kingspoint]

Joe B leads all NFL QB's in YPA when facing pressure at 7.7 YPA.

[RiverRat13]

Joe B leads all NFL QB's in YPA when facing pressure at 7.7 YPA.

Which speaks to why "just throw it away" isn't always the best answer. He takes some sacks he wouldn't take if he was the type to chuck it out of bounds once he felt a little heat (like Andy Dalton). But he also makes big plays in those situations that guys like Dalton never make.

Also, four of his five sacks last week were on third down. I'd rather him try to keep the play alive, even if it ends up as a sack, on third down then throw it away. The sacks on third down also speak to the play calling problem - quit putting Joe in obvious 3rd down passing situations if you want him to get hit less. Which means you throw it more on early downs.

[WVRed]

Riley Rieff is not the answer at RT. We still need to draft a 1st Rd OT. I would still try to resign Rieff while that 1st Rd OT tries to win a spot on the line at LG or RG before eventually moving over to RT.

Who would you propose they draft?

McShay had his way too early mock our yesterday and had the Bengals taking Linderbaum with Sauce Gardner going one pick earlier to the Vikings.

[KoryMac5]

2022 cap is set...Bengals slotted to have the 5th most space...Smart targeted FA signings like Hendrickson and Awuzie.

[KoryMac5]

Prince with the start on Sunday...He played well last time out.

[Kingspoint]

Who would you propose they draft?

McShay had his way too early mock our yesterday and had the Bengals taking Linderbaum with Sauce Gardner going one pick earlier to the Vikings.

I know absolutely nothing about this year's draft. But, because it's a RT they are after, they can still get the best RT in the draft where they will be picking. I figure we will have the 20th or 21st pick, hopefully higher if we can advance through the playoffs.

Btw, for those who were touting Slater in last year's draft, he's allowed only 22 pressures on 603 passing downs this season.

https://www.pff.com/nfl/players/rashawn-slater/59971

His Rookie PFF Rating is a remarkable 79.9. It's not Joe Thomas, but I'm pretty sure it's Top-10 among LT's.

[WVRed]

I know absolutely nothing about this year's draft. But, because it's a RT they are after, they can still get the best RT in the draft where they will be picking. I figure we will have the 20th or 21st pick, hopefully higher if we can advance through the playoffs.

Btw, for those who were touting Slater in last year's draft, he's allowed only 22 pressures on 603 passing downs this season.

https://www.pff.com/nfl/players/rashawn-slater/59971

His Rookie PFF Rating is a remarkable 79.9. It's not Joe Thomas, but I'm pretty sure it's Top-10 among LT's.

Ikem Ekwonu from NC State. Started as a guard then moved outside this year. Kinda reminds me of Jonah Williams though.

https://www.fayobserver.com/story/sports/2021/11/24/nc-state-football-ikem-ekwonu-tackle-nfl-draft/8712228002/

[RiverRat13]

My hope for the draft is that they take care of the glaring needs in free agency so they can take the best player available.

[Bob Sheed]

My hope for the draft is that they take care of the glaring needs in free agency so they can take the best player available.

To my surprise, they did this last season and it has paid dividends. If Katie Bug and Troy can connect the dots that this is something that needs to be done EVERY offseason, this franchise might just turn the corner.

[Oxilon]

Not to rain on the parade, but I’m fairly confident the recent free agent splurge was out of salary cap floor necessity versus the front office being proactive. Once they have players worth resigning again, I would imagine their free agent outlook would revert back to the way it has been. Would love to be wrong but color me skeptical until otherwise.

[KoryMac5]

Not to rain on the parade, but I’m fairly confident the recent free agent splurge was out of salary cap floor necessity versus the front office being proactive. Once they have players worth resigning again, I would imagine their free agent outlook would revert back to the way it has been. Would love to be wrong but color me skeptical until otherwise.

The contracts given out to the last 2 free agent classes were probably a combination of wanting to get to the floor while also trying to be competitive while your QB is on his rookie contract. I think philosophically they still have the same mindset of valuing certain positions over others. But this last FA class with Awuzie, Hendrickson, Hilton has gone a long way towards making me optimistic that a more targeted approach is coming from this front office.

[KoryMac5]

Reiff to IR, Awuzie on COVID list...

[KoryMac5]

Interesting points in the Athletic:

Bengals are seeing more zone coverage than any team in the NFL with the exception of the Lions.


Burrow rating against Zone vs Man
89.8 (15th) 121.7 (2nd)

Bengals had success in the 2nd half against the Zone which could be the start of Burrow figuring out the puzzle.

https://theathletic.com/3018503/2021/12/16/how-defenses-are-attacking-joe-burrow-and-the-impact-on-the-bengals-playoff-hopes/?source=user_shared_article

[Redsfaithful]

Awuzie is on the COVID list, makes me worried we'll see some others in the next two days. The Bengals aren't deep enough for this sort of thing.

[RiverRat13]

Reiff is out for the year.

[KoryMac5]

Prince down with an illness today so no practice...Waynes and Hendrickson look to be a go for Sunday.

[Bob Sheed]

Hendrickson and his double digit sacks are a big deal to have for Sunday.

[KoryMac5]

Fred Johnson will start at RT due to Prince being ill...Awuzie is out as well from what I am reading or not expected to play.

[Bob Sheed]

Fred Johnson will start at RT due to Prince being ill...

That alone may be enough to pencil in an L. Johnson has no business being on an NFL roster period as a Tackle, much less as a starter.

The Bengals are a playoff caliber team at this point with a healthy oline. But each of the oline backups are so miserably awful, even just one as a starter is capable of bringing the entire offense, and therefore the entire team... down. Way down.

Meanwhile, Whitworth is what, 60 years old now and still performing at a high level? Good thing the Bengals let him walk.

[GAC]

Awuzie is on the COVID list, makes me worried we'll see some others in the next two days. The Bengals aren't deep enough for this sort of thing.

I'm so glad the NFL has came out and revised their policy. 2/3 of the players being tested are asymptomatic, and the remainder experienced mild symptoms. We can combine caution with common sense IMO.

https://www.10tv.com/article/sports/nfl-covid-protocols-change-vaccinated-players/507-2d404442-caac-4c08-a7d2-0d6f73b29f43

[Todd Gack]

That alone may be enough to pencil in an L. Johnson has no business being on an NFL roster period as a Tackle, much less as a starter.

The Bengals are a playoff caliber team at this point with a healthy oline. But each of the oline backups are so miserably awful, even just one as a starter is capable of bringing the entire offense, and therefore the entire team... down. Way down.

Meanwhile, Whitworth is what, 60 years old now and still performing at a high level? Good thing the Bengals let him walk.

Where's Jackson Carmen?

- - - Updated - - -


I'm so glad the NFL has came out and revised their policy. 2/3 of the players being tested are asymptomatic, and the remainder experienced mild symptoms. We can combine caution with common sense IMO.

https://www.10tv.com/article/sports/nfl-covid-protocols-change-vaccinated-players/507-2d404442-caac-4c08-a7d2-0d6f73b29f43

They were losing money so they had to do something. Good for them for once.

[KoryMac5]

That alone may be enough to pencil in an L. Johnson has no business being on an NFL roster period as a Tackle, much less as a starter.

The Bengals are a playoff caliber team at this point with a healthy oline. But each of the oline backups are so miserably awful, even just one as a starter is capable of bringing the entire offense, and therefore the entire team... down. Way down.

Meanwhile, Whitworth is what, 60 years old now and still performing at a high level? Good thing the Bengals let him walk.

Johnson has no business playing Guard and he was awful last season doing it...he's 3rd string not sure many other teams have much better 3 deep...Good question on Carmen he seems to be healthy yet Smith who they just activated is the swing tackle today.

[Reds Freak]

Titans could have put the Steelers out of their playoff misery today but looks like they're about to give it away.

[The Operator]

Awfully short handed today but Trae Waynes is apparently back.


Bengals start with the ball. Let’s go!

[The Operator]

3 & out


Not good, Bob.

[The Operator]

Bengals have the 4th most missed tackles in the NFL this year? Ouch.

[KoryMac5]

This game is not at home so we should have a chance...

[The Operator]

Bengals up 3-0 after a drive stalls out. McPherson makes it from 53 yards.

[KoryMac5]

Bengals up 3-0 after a drive stalls out. McPherson makes it from 53 yards.

8 out of 9 from 50 plus...that's pretty damn good rookie.

[The Operator]

Sack!

Nice series by the defense.

[WrongVerb]

8 out of 9 from 50 plus...that's pretty damn good rookie.

He should get some RotY attention. Won't win, but dayum.

[The Operator]

8 out of 9 from 50 plus...that's pretty damn good rookie.

He’s definitely looking like one of the better kickers we’ve had.

[The Operator]

Huge play negated by a hold on Spain.


Ugh.

[The Operator]

Awfully conservative running on 3rd & 15 from your own 5.

[Reds Freak]

Huge play negated by a hold on Spain.


Ugh.

I'm not watching, was it a legit hold?

[The Operator]

I'm not watching, was it a legit hold?

I didn’t see it, but the play took forever to develop and Burrow was on the run so it didn’t surprise me when the flag came out.

[KoryMac5]

Burrow is getting better at the tuck and run...

[KoryMac5]

How do you miss that late hit...

[The Operator]

Oh lord.

Justin Simmons comes through literally unblocked and drops Burrow for a huge loss.

[The Operator]

Lots and lots of punting so far.

Feels like watching a Tressel-era Buckeyes game.

[The Operator]

Oh that better come back.

He was absolutely past the line of scrimmage.

[Reds Freak]

How do you miss that late hit...

The call against Mike Hilton vs the Jets gets more egregious each week.

[Playadlc]

What in the hell?

How is that upheld?

[The Operator]

LOL of course the play stands

[Todd Gack]

LOL of course the play stands

Of course. It complied with the rule book.

- - - Updated - - -

Eli Apple has been playing with fire multiple times this year and been burned multiple times. Very lucky there.

[The Operator]

All tied at 3-3

[Reds Freak]

Of course. It complied with the rule book.

- - - Updated - - -

Eli Apple has been playing with fire multiple times this year and been burned multiple times. Very lucky there.

Care to chime in about the non late hit call?

[KoryMac5]

Of course. It complied with the rule book.

- - - Updated - - -

Eli Apple has been playing with fire multiple times this year and been burned multiple times. Very lucky there.

Or maybe it was a good play...Apple gets a beating here but he has been a solid 3rd corner.

[Todd Gack]

Oh lord.

Justin Simmons comes through literally unblocked and drops Burrow for a huge loss.

I just don't understand that play call. Just freaking run it to Mixon again. He just had a 6 yard run on previous play. Zac has zero feel for the game.

BTW, Mixon has now rushed 4 times for like 22 yards when Burrow is under center.

- - - Updated - - -


Or maybe it was a good play...Apple gets a beating here but he has been a solid 3rd corner.

Yes, that's what I'm saying. He easily gets beat and makes a good play to bat it awaay. But he's not going to bat it away every time. A better QB and WR make that play.

[Todd Gack]

Care to chime in about the non late hit call?

They didn't call it so it wasn't a late hit. Stop complaining. There are too many personal foul hits in the game the way it is anyway.

[Reds Freak]

They didn't call it so it wasn't a late hit. Stop complaining.

Lol you're nothing if not consistent. You can't defend that call, come on.. Not sure why you come into the Bengals threads.

[Todd Gack]

Lol you're nothing if not consistent. You can't defend that call, come on.. Not sure why you come into the Bengals threads.

I'm sorry I'm not a homer.

[Playadlc]

Great punt.

[The Operator]

Yet another 3 & out from the offense.


Huber having a nice day.

[Kingspoint]

Or maybe it was a good play...Apple gets a beating here but he has been a solid 3rd corner.

That was a WOW play.

[KoryMac5]

They didn't call it so it wasn't a late hit. Stop complaining. There are too many personal foul hits in the game the way it is anyway.

Late hits like the one on Sample don't belong in the game...not sure how you can't see that. He went all Burfict on Sample.

[Reds Freak]

I'm sorry I'm not a homer.

You're a homer for whoever the Bengals are facing. We get it, the Bengals are tough to root for but you come in these threads actively rooting against them.

[Todd Gack]

Bachie has been a pleasant surprise.

- - - Updated - - -


Late hits like the one on Sample don't belong in the game...not sure how you can't see that. He went all Burfict on Sample.

When was the last time they called a late hit against an OL?

[Reds Freak]

Bachie has been a pleasant surprise.

- - - Updated - - -



When was the last time they called a late hit against an OL?

Did you watch the play? It was a linebacker against the Bengals TE Sample, not the DE Sample.

[Todd Gack]

Did you watch the play? It was a linebacker against the Bengals TE Sample, not the DE Sample.

Drew Sample is our 6th OL.

[The Operator]

3 & out again

[Playadlc]

He’s getting time to throw. I’m assuming no one is getting open.

[Reds Freak]

Drew Sample is our 6th OL.

You lose credibility trying to defend that non-call. Pick another battle.

[Todd Gack]

Just remember: Jackson Carman can't beat out Fred Johnson and Isaiah Prince to start on the OL.

[Todd Gack]

You lose credibility trying to defend that non-call. Pick another battle.

I've been through enough Bengals games, and just life in general, to not really complain about NFL officiating.

[The Operator]

Neutral zone infraction on 3rd & 6 lol

- - - Updated - - -

The Broncos will probably drive in for a TD here and they also get the ball to start the 3rd quarter.


Ugh.

[Todd Gack]

Neutral zone infraction on 3rd & 6 lol

- - - Updated - - -

The Broncos will probably drive in for a TD here and they also get the ball to start the 3rd quarter.


Ugh.

Funny thing is that they probably don't get the 3rd down if we don't go offsides and we at least get a FG at the other end.

[Todd Gack]

Just don't understand why Denver didn't call a TO after that running play.

[The Operator]

Vonn Bell being checked out for a possible concussion


The hits keep coming

[The Operator]

Trae Waynes misses out on an absolute gift INT

- - - Updated - - -

Bengals get lucky and the Broncos miss the FG.

Denver wasn’t at all aggressive with their clock management that drive. I’ll take it.

[KoryMac5]

What a leg!

[The Operator]

McPherson!!!!


From 58!!!!!!


Holy crap! Bengals lead 6-3 at the half

[Reds Freak]

A sleepy first half, but it's better than being down three scores and having to scramble in the second half again.

[Playadlc]

What a swing.

[KoryMac5]

Nice execution at the end of the half...haven't been able to say that much as the Bengals steal 3.

[The Operator]

Altitude or not, that was an absolutely incredible kick.

Wow.

[KoryMac5]

McPherson sets a new record with 58 yarder...he may break his own record today.

[KoryMac5]

Hendrickson is a monster...

[The Operator]

Sack!!!

Hendrickson keeps his streak going!

[KoryMac5]

Sack!!!

Hendrickson keeps his streak going!

1 more game for the record...still unbelievable that people bagged his signing.

[The Operator]

Defense came to play today, even with notable injuries.


Offense has to start doing their part.

[The Operator]

Nice scramble and thank god a slide by Burrow for the first down.

[Reds Freak]

Looking at a possible situation where the Bengals win this game and they're in first place in AFCN. They lose? Dead last in the division and probably out of the race.

[KoryMac5]

Looking at a possible situation where the Bengals win this game and they're in first place in AFCN. They lose? Dead last in the division and probably out of the race.

Must win without a doubt they need to go 3-1 rest of the way.

[The Operator]

Getting some penalty help.

Gotta get a TD here.

- - - Updated - - -

Perine!

Nice run to get it up to the 13.

[The Operator]

Great job by Burrow to get rid of that. Huge.

[The Operator]

Another promising drive stalls out but McPherson gets us points.

9-3

[KoryMac5]

Got to turn one of these 3's into 6 though...

[The Operator]

Got to turn one of these 3's into 6 though...

Yep. Leaving an awful lot of points on the field and Denver can easily flip the score.

[Playadlc]

Get a turnover here.

[The Operator]

Bridgewater down. Bachie also down.

That was a brutal play to watch.

[The Operator]

Well they briefly came back from commercial and sounds like Bridgewater might be seriously hurt.


No mention of Bachie.

[The Operator]

Bridgewater being carted off with his neck restrained.

Never get used to watching stuff like that happen.

[KoryMac5]

Dude has come back from so much hate to see him go down again...

[The Operator]

Of course the Broncos seem energized now and are marching right down the field.

[The Operator]

TD Denver.

Ugh.

- - - Updated - - -

TD called back. OPI.

Lucky there.

- - - Updated - - -

Uh okay apparently it is a TD.

What the heck lol

[The Operator]

10-9 Broncos


Bengals get an extra 15 on the upcoming kickoff due to a taunting penalty.

[KoryMac5]

Waynes can't get cut fast enough for me this offseason...

[Playadlc]

Waynes had position.

Soft play.

[The Operator]

Boyd!!!!!!!!


Go for 2 here!!

[Playadlc]

Boom!!!

[The Operator]

Oh dang it Boyd had it but dropped the 2 pointer.


15-10 Bengals

[KoryMac5]

Bengals D needs to play the 4th quarter of their lives...

[The Operator]

Fumble!!!!


We’ve got the ball back!!!

[The Operator]

There is absolutely not enough evidence to overturn that.

But they will. Because Bengals.

[The Operator]

LOL of course Denver keeps the football.

- - - Updated - - -

Denver will absolutely drive down for a TD now.

And just like that a 24 yard pass play.

[The Operator]

And now Apple gets called for pass interference.


Touchdown incoming.

[oregonred]

Denver gets call overturned then Lock immediately connects on 3rd and 8. Bengals never seem to be prepared for the unexpected. Then a timely PI to convert another Denver 3rd and long. As a Bengal fan you just have to laugh out loud - a lot..

[oregonred]

Backup QBs just salivate when they get a chance vs. the Bengals

[Roy Tucker]

Hubbard gets a lot of press but I see him run himself out of a lot of plays.

[The Operator]

Well we knew the Broncos rushing attack wouldn’t stay silent all day.

[The Operator]

What in the absolute hell was that madness.


Ball gets stripped. Bengals go running and then get stripped themselves. Bronco have the ball back.


Wtf

[CTA513]

Gave the ball back trying to get a few extra yards.

[oregonred]

That sequence was so Bengals. Never leave it in the hands of nfl officials when not a favored franchise. Great play by Kareem. Then he fumbles and also hurt...

[Playadlc]

He was already down.

[The Operator]

Backup QBs just salivate when they get a chance vs. the Bengals

All the way back to Bruce Gradkowski beating them with Tampa Bay and then a few years later as a Raider.


There was also that crazy record scoring game against The Browns in 2004 (I think?) where one of their nobody QB’s threw about 400 against them but The Bengals managed to outscore them.

[Playadlc]

That’s the right call.

[The Operator]

Down by contact!!!! We keep the ball!!!


Thank god!

[Todd Gack]

He was already down.

Correct call. We were lucky.

[CTA513]

Got very lucky, but now it looks like Kareem is being carted off

[oregonred]

Goid break there on the down by contact. Seems like the right call.

[The Operator]

Have to score a TD here.

Have to.

[oregonred]

Seems like always 3rd and 5 with this offense

[The Operator]

Bengals burn a timeout.

Ugh.

- - - Updated - - -


Seems like always 3rd and 5 with this offense

They’re always putting themselves in bad spots.

[The Operator]

Burrow!!!

Beautiful scramble to move the chains. Thank god he’s learning to slide.

[oregonred]

The obligatory run on 1st down for 5 feet. Good scramble by Burrow but odd slide

- - - Updated - - -

The offense just seems so predictable with obvious passing downs and early runs

[KoryMac5]

Chase needs to step up...he has been invisible today.

[The Operator]

3rd & 8


Always 3rd & long

- - - Updated - - -

Terrible play calling

[oregonred]

Defense needs to step up and get the ball back in good field position. The 3rd down screen call would have been a good 1st or 2nd down call.

[The Operator]

14 yards after contact on a play that should have been damn near a safety.

Ugh.

[Roy Tucker]

Bengal play calling is still mystifying.

[oregonred]

This is painful. So many chances to take control of the game.

- - - Updated - - -


Bengal play calling is still mystifying.

It isn't mystifying. That's the whole problem.

[KoryMac5]

D is gassed the injuries are catching up...

[The Operator]

Bengals should have a 3 score lead right now and instead a backup QB is marching The Broncos down the field with a chance to take the lead.


This sucks.

[The Operator]

Huge job by the defense there.

[KoryMac5]

Bengals should have a 3 score lead right now and instead a backup QB is marching The Broncos down the field with a chance to take the lead.


This sucks.

D needs to make a play...

[oregonred]

3rd and 10 after a good run on 1st. Uggghh

[The Operator]

That 2nd down play… uh…

Never seen a team get credit for a sack when the QB slides.

[oregonred]

Joey B comes through with a dime to Boyd on 3rd and 10

[The Operator]

Boyd!!!

Move the chains!!


That’s huge

[KoryMac5]

Bengals don't have a good hx running the clock out...that needs to change today.

[The Operator]

Burrow took an absolute shot on that

- - - Updated - - -

Mixon for 5 feet again. Lol

[oregonred]

Now Mixon hurt trying to grind down the clock after a great 3rd down conversion. Good lord we can't ever have good things for more than 2 minutes

- - - Updated - - -

He had some room on the outside it seemed. That didnt look good.

[Roy Tucker]

I’m an ex-Browns fan. I still have nightmares about Mile High.

[oregonred]

Can they grind out a winning 1st down...

[The Operator]

Another run.

3rd & 8



Jdjdnelekdjfidis

[Playadlc]

Another run.

3rd & 8



Jdjdnelekdjfidis

You pretty much have to run it two times in a row here. No problem with the call.

[oregonred]

Perrine had some blockers and didn't follow them on 2nd down

[KoryMac5]

Agreed keep working the clock...

[The Operator]

Another missed INT

Soooo many the past few weeks.

- - - Updated - - -

Sack!!!!!

[The Operator]

How do you commit a neutral zone infraction on 3rd & 29.

- - - Updated - - -

Another missed INT

[KoryMac5]

Hendrickson is a force of nature...

[oregonred]

Season alive. Huge road win!

[The Operator]

Well thank god.

It never should have been this close but a win is a win.

[Reds Freak]

Come on Packers, finish this off.

[KoryMac5]

Well thank god.

It never should have been this close but a win is a win.

Tough to win on the road in Denver...it was ugly for sure.

[RiverRat13]

Nice win. Fangio's clock management helped in a big way. Some guys are made to be coordinators.

[oregonred]

5-2 on the road with an inexplicable melteown at the Meadowlands.

[The Operator]

Need The Packers to do their part.

Baltimore moving down a TD.

[UKFlounder]

Despite their efforts to the contrary, the Bengals win.

Zac Taylor’s 2-yards and a cloud of gust offense - especially late in games - is discouraging. It’s a waste of Burrow and makes the choice of Chase questionable again.


Oh well a win is a win

[Playadlc]

Road win over a playoff bubble team is nothing to sneeze at.

This is a big time win.

[WrongVerb]

Bengals D needs to play the 4th quarter of their lives...

This aged very well.

[Reds Freak]

This Huntley kid is impressive as a backup QB for the Ravens. Second week in a row he's led a pretty improbable comeback. Packers had this game in the bag five minutes ago.

[The Operator]

Road win over a playoff bubble team is nothing to sneeze at.

This is a big time win.
5-2 on the road. Incredible.

Their struggles at home are mind boggling.

[oregonred]

What is green bay doing? Huntley making Ravens question why they ever need to pay lamar 45M a year in the off-season.

[oregonred]

I bet baltimore goes for 2 if they score

[KoryMac5]

This aged very well.

Lou has them playing well and Chido is back next game too...Wilson is also close to returning...the D is on the rise.

[The Operator]

Ravens gonna go for 2 to win it.

Wow.

- - - Updated - - -


Ravens gonna go for 2 to win it.

Wow.

Never mind. They just wanted to draw them offsides.

[The Operator]

Okay they’re still gonna go for 2.

[oregonred]

Wow. 2 point fails. Unbelievable!

[The Operator]

Whoooooo doggies Harbaugh is gonna take some heat for that call.

Pack lead 31-30

[KoryMac5]

Whoooooo doggies Harbaugh is gonna take some heat for that call.

Pack lead 31-30

Agreed Harbaugh gifted us one there...

[oregonred]

Onside fails. Ravens penalty. Game over. What a nice 30 mins for the Bengals.

[Reds Freak]

Agreed Harbaugh gifted us one there...

I like the call, especially when the other guys have Rodgers. But crazy the Ravens have lost two games this year going for that gamble.

[Roy Tucker]

An ugly win but it’s a road win in December and that’s big.

[oregonred]

Calling it now. The Ravens are not going to pay lamar 40-45M a year and box themselves in on the salary cap.

[KoryMac5]

I like the call, especially when the other guys have Rodgers. But crazy the Ravens have lost two games this year going for that gamble.

2 weeks in a row it's tough to lose going for 2...esp with Baltimore having the momentum in both games.

I am wondering if Harbaugh feels he doesn't have the depth to play the OT.

[RiverRat13]

In an example of correlation <> causation, the Bengals move to 5-1 when Fred Johnson starts at tackle.

[Reds Freak]

It would be helpful if the Raiders could pull one out in Cleveland tomorrow night.

[KoryMac5]

In an example of correlation <> causation, the Bengals move to 5-1 when Fred Johnson starts at tackle.

Johnson is not bad at tackle just don't play him at guard...

[KoryMac5]

Burrow up to 41 sacks on the year...3 today.

[The Operator]

Burrow up to 41 sacks on the year...3 today.

And he used his legs to elude several others where I thought he was done for.


The line has to be addressed in the off-season.

- - - Updated - - -


It would be helpful if the Raiders could pull one out in Cleveland tomorrow night.

So if The Browns win tomorrow are they in first place?

This might be the goofiest AFC North race I can remember in a long time.

[RiverRat13]

And he used his legs to elude several others where I thought he was done for.


The line has to be addressed in the off-season.

- - - Updated - - -



So if The Browns win tomorrow are they in first place?

This might be the goofiest AFC North race I can remember in a long time.https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/index.htm

Reminds me of the 1989 AFC Central.

[The Operator]

https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/index.htm

Reminds me of the 1989 AFC Central.

Dang! Denver was the only double digit winner in the entire AFC that year. Nuts.

[Todd Gack]

Whoooooo doggies Harbaugh is gonna take some heat for that call.

Pack lead 31-30

IMO, it was the correct call. My guess is he was thinking that it was "Rodgers vs Huntley" in OT and I don't think they like their chances.

That's also assuming Rodgers wouldn't have just gone down and won the game following the XP.

[RiverRat13]

Dang! Denver was the only double digit winner in the entire AFC that year. Nuts.Bengals had the second best point differential in the conference and finished last in the division. The 61-7 win helped that stat a bit.

[Todd Gack]

You guys think I'm crazy, but this team is definitely a contender for a Super Bowl run.

Now, we can't run out the oL we had today and we can't have anymore big injuries to the back 7 on defense. But it's obvious teams are taking away Chase and our OL is really hampering with Higgins and Boyd trying to get open.

[KoryMac5]

You guys think I'm crazy, but this team is definitely a contender for a Super Bowl run.

Now, we can't run out the oL we had today and we can't have anymore big injuries to the back 7 on defense. But it's obvious teams are taking away Chase and our OL is really hampering with Higgins and Boyd trying to get open.

They also have to learn to win big games at home...

[Todd Gack]

They also have to learn to win big games at home...

No. They have to learn to beat teams with good QB's who can constantly keep pressure on Zac to make difficult play calls. I don't think it has anything to do with home/away. We just happened to play the better QB's at home this year.

And to add on, the difference between Joe beating those other teams is simple: Our OL. We HAVE to be as healthy as possible. Jackson Carman not panning out has become a huge factor for the team this year.

Hell, the 6th OL today was Deante Smith. Ugggh.

[membengal]

Well thank god.

It never should have been this close but a win is a win.

I mean...they were road underdogs. Wins a win.

[RiverRat13]

Saw this on another site - McPherson already has the career franchise record of most made FGs from 50+ with 9.

[KoryMac5]

No. They have to learn to beat teams with good QB's who can constantly keep pressure on Zac to make difficult play calls. I don't think it has anything to do with home/away. We just happened to play the better QB's at home this year.

And to add on, the difference between Joe beating those other teams is simple: Our OL. We HAVE to be as healthy as possible. Jackson Carman not panning out has become a huge factor for the team this year.

Hell, the 6th OL today was Deante Smith. Ugggh.

It's D'ante Smith not Deante...rookie OL from East Carolina, Bengals are very high on him, he almost secured the starting RG job out of camp before getting hurt. You might want to take some time getting to know these players.

And yes the Bengals do need to start taking advantage of home games this coming Sunday when Baltimore rolls into town.

[Todd Gack]

It's D'ante Smith not Deante...rookie OL from East Carolina, Bengals are very high on him, he almost secured the starting RG job out of camp before getting hurt. You might want to take some time getting to know these players.

And yes the Bengals do need to start taking advantage of home games this coming Sunday when Baltimore rolls into town.

You sound bitter.

I mean, at least comment on Carman? Smith being the 6th OL today means Carman is like our. . . 9th/10th best OL? Come on. Just admit we F'd up that pick.

[Hillsdale87]

You guys think I'm crazy, but this team is definitely a contender for a Super Bowl run.

Now, we can't run out the oL we had today and we can't have anymore big injuries to the back 7 on defense. But it's obvious teams are taking away Chase and our OL is really hampering with Higgins and Boyd trying to get open.

I don't think that's crazy. There hasn't been a game all season where I didn't feel like the Bengals could keep up with the other team. We'll see about the Chiefs in a couple weeks, but between the AFC being weak and the Bengals talent on both sides of the ball, there's no reason they can't make a run if they make it


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[membengal]

Carman was good today. But , carry on.

[KoryMac5]

You sound bitter.

I mean, at least comment on Carman? Smith being the 6th OL today means Carman is like our. . . 9th/10th best OL? Come on. Just admit we F'd up that pick.

Not really bitter and have you read your posts talk about bizarre turn of events when you call other posters bitter ...if you are going to call out Smith for being the 6th member of the O line at least get his name right...D'Ante...

Not really much to say about Carmen at this point...I have heard 0 about him the last few weeks...beat writers haven't mentioned him at all, not even Hobson can spin that one. If you can't see the field with as bad as this o line is it says something about your career outlook.

Biggest concern I have is Mixon...if he is down next week we might be DOA

[membengal]

“Casuals don't wanna hear it but Fred Johnson and Jackson Carman only allowed 4 total pressures between them on 48 combined pass-blocking snaps.

It's still pending review, but they both certainly passed the eye test”

https://twitter.com/pff_andrewr/status/1472747768271851521?s=21

[KoryMac5]

Carman was good today. But , carry on.

Had not heard much about him seems twitter agrees with you...


Willie Lutz
@willie_lutz
·
58m
Jackson Carman was really impressive today

Kid needs the confidence boost.

[Redhook]

Thoughts from the game I attended today:

Empower Field is a really nice stadium with mountains in the background. Way better than PBS.

Broncos fans are very cordial overall.

Tons of Bengals fans attended the game! If I had to guess, it was nearly 10% overall.

The first half seemed like 3 hours of terrible football. TV timeouts 3 every plays.

The Broncos should have ran the ball more, the Bengals should’ve passed it more.

Javonte Williams is a beast and will be a top 3 RB next year.

The Bengals defense is sneaky good.

Teddy B and Drew Lock should never play QB in the NFL. They’re awful.

McPherson has a canon.

Taylor didn’t lose a game a today which is refreshing.

The Broncos D matched up very well with the Bengals today. Bengals O was pathetic.

I like the home NFL experience better than in-person. It’s hard to see and I don’t like not being able to see most replays, especially the close review plays.

Overall, my son and I had a great time. It was 60 degrees and sunny. My Bengals won, but he’s a little bummed about his Broncos losing.

The Bengals are good enough to win a playoff game this year...they just need the right matchup.

[UKFlounder]

I must say that I picked the Bengals to win 6 or 7 games this year, so even though I’m unhappy about some things today their overall record is better than I thought. I underestimated them.

[Redhook]

17936

[Redhook]

I must say that I picked the Bengals to win 6 or 7 games this year, so even though I’m unhappy about some things today their overall record is better than I thought. I underestimated them.

Yeah, they’re ahead of “schedule” for sure, however, it’s really frustrating because they’re a decent line from having a legitimate chance at winning multiple playoff games. Not fully addressing the needs due to cheapness is a darn shame, a complete waste. But, at least they a large cap surplus going into next year :rolleyes:

[Sea Ray]

I bet baltimore goes for 2 if they score

Yep and once again Harbaugh is shown that he's not the smartest guy in the room. Will he ever learn?

[Sea Ray]

Not really bitter and have you read your posts talk about bizarre turn of events when you call other posters bitter ...if you are going to call out Smith for being the 6th member of the O line at least get his name right...D'Ante...

Not really much to say about Carmen at this point...I have heard 0 about him the last few weeks...beat writers haven't mentioned him at all, not even Hobson can spin that one. If you can't see the field with as bad as this o line is it says something about your career outlook.

Biggest concern I have is Mixon...if he is down next week we might be DOA

Maybe if Mixon is down, Zac will be forced to put the ball in Joe Burrow's hands

Once again this week in crunch time, ZT treats JB like he is a game manager and runs the ball 3 straight times when a 1st down wins the game w/o giving it to the other offense. As Bengal fans our optimism starts and ends with JB. If he is only a game manager then we are not a good team

[Sea Ray]

Yeah, they’re ahead of “schedule” for sure, however, it’s really frustrating because they’re a decent line from having a legitimate chance at winning multiple playoff games. Not fully addressing the needs due to cheapness is a darn shame, a complete waste. But, at least they a large cap surplus going into next year :rolleyes:

They signed a starting RT in free agency. They spent a high second rd pick on the line. It's not cheapness

[Redhook]

They signed a starting RT in free agency. They spent a high second rd pick on the line. It's not cheapness

Ignorance, apathy and cheapness rolled into one. Yes, they signed Reiff which was a solid signing. They really needed a solid NFL starting right guard and they chose to throw darts against the wall. If that wasn’t enough, they were counting on Hopkins 8 months post ACL surgery. And, on top of that, they have one of the top caps in the NFL. They had plenty of money to spend and I’m not giving them a pass. Burrow has been sacked the most of any NFL QB. I mostly blame the front office for that.

[KoryMac5]

I would agree they could have signed Zeitler but let him walk to the Ravens for more money. I would hope we see an investment in the interior of the line this off-season. However some of that might be predicated on the growth of players like Carmen, Smith, Johnson, Prince. Patience with these kids might pay off in the long run.

[membengal]

So much anger. Whatevs.

They are 8-6 in a year where their Vegas o/u was 6.5 and Burrow was coming off ACL surgery - tied for the division lead and a chance for the playoffs with 3 weeks left. Good on them. My prediction was 8-9. ZT and crew have at least given me games that matter in December and January. I can't share in the anger.

[Redsfaithful]

Maybe if Mixon is down, Zac will be forced to put the ball in Joe Burrow's hands

Once again this week in crunch time, ZT treats JB like he is a game manager and runs the ball 3 straight times when a 1st down wins the game w/o giving it to the other offense. As Bengal fans our optimism starts and ends with JB. If he is only a game manager then we are not a good team

This didn't bother me as much as last week against the 49ers. That Denver defense is very legit, but their offense is terrible, so I can see the thought process from Taylor here. I thought it would be a grind of a game similar to the Raiders win - Denver I think is better than the Raiders so final score reflected that.

[Redhook]

So much anger. Whatevs.

They are 8-6 in a year where their Vegas o/u was 6.5 and Burrow was coming off ACL surgery - tied for the division lead and a chance for the playoffs with 3 weeks left. Good on them. My prediction was 8-9. ZT and crew have at least given me games that matter in December and January. I can't share in the anger.

I’m not angry about their season. They’re fun to watch, they’re way better than I thought they’d be and I’m happy that they have a chance to win their decision. Burrow is playing like he was never injured which is very impressive and the defense has been much better than expected.

Just because they’ve outperformed their projections doesn’t mean we can’t look at the team and think what if. What if they signed another top lineman or two in the offseason? What if Burrow had a decent line? Would this team be a super bowl contender? I am frustrated with ownership not doing their best to address the line to protect Burrow 2 years in a row. Yes, they’re competitive, but the goal should be Super Bowls. Hindsight is 20/20, but looking how this team has performed this year leaves me with the what if questions. With an average AFC this year, this could’ve been their year.

[bucksfan2]

The Denver QB's are horrid. I do find it somewhat ironic that Elway can't find a reliable QB. They would be a super bowl team with a decent QB. Will they win the Aaron Rodgers sweepstakes next season?

The Bengals are a legit OLine away from being contenders. The patchwork OLine did ok, but they scored 15 points, two of which came on 50 yard plus FG's and their loan TD came on a long catch and run play. They never seriously threatened and made 1(?) trip to the Redzone.

Denver D is good, but you won't win many games scoring 15 points. I do think there are times where Burrow holds the ball too long, and he has to get better at that. But the Oline must be fixed going into next season. No more project draft picks, they need a T and a G, go get one. If they go into the season hoping Carmen wins a G spot, well I know how that will end up.

[Sea Ray]

Due to the NFL's system, nearly every team has weaknesses. The Bengals have it at O line. Let's hope they address it. If they do, a new weakness will likely arise. For now we gotta go to war with what we got

[membengal]

I’m not angry about their season. They’re fun to watch, they’re way better than I thought they’d be and I’m happy that they have a chance to win their decision. Burrow is playing like he was never injured which is very impressive and the defense has been much better than expected.

Just because they’ve outperformed their projections doesn’t mean we can’t look at the team and think what if. What if they signed another top lineman or two in the offseason? What if Burrow had a decent line? Would this team be a super bowl contender? I am frustrated with ownership not doing their best to address the line to protect Burrow 2 years in a row. Yes, they’re competitive, but the goal should be Super Bowls. Hindsight is 20/20, but looking how this team has performed this year leaves me with the what if questions. With an average AFC this year, this could’ve been their year.

They signed two linemen. Reiff and Spain. Spain has been fantastic. Reiff was solid - what they signed up for when they got him. Then he got hurt. All teams pretty much have screaming needs for line help. This line improved from worst to middle of pack, which was what most reasonable people hoped for. They had enough depth to cover injuries to RT and RG yesterday on the road and still win a must win game. The complaining gets old. Their year? No one picked them to be at this point. This is a massive jump for this coaching staff and Burrow coming off his recovery. I hope like hell it ends in the playoffs, but this team in the off-season re-made their defense and shored up the line. In the meantime, a young team needs to learn to handle pressure and win. From where I sit, there have been massive strides. There are more to be made this off-season.

[oregonred]

I still maintain Zac's predictable offensive schemes and playcalling let DL and Edge rushers pin their ears back without much worry of misdirections, screens and new wrinkles. The OLine is better and needs work in the offseason, but the playcalling, slow starts and offensive gameplanning is the biggest issue.

Compare the looks you get with KC, the Chargers and the Patriots and it doesn't compare

[oregonred]

Yeah, they’re ahead of “schedule” for sure, however, it’s really frustrating because they’re a decent line from having a legitimate chance at winning multiple playoff games. Not fully addressing the needs due to cheapness is a darn shame, a complete waste. But, at least they a large cap surplus going into next year :rolleyes:

They completely rebuilt the defense with some incredible FA signings and savvy transactions (BJ Hill and yes, Eli Apple) the last two offseasons. They drafted Dline and Oline (trenches, trenches, trenches) pretty much exclusively after round 1 this year. They also solved the Kicker issue for the next decade+

Yes, this offseason they need to further address the o-line, LB depth and also find another weapon at TE

But the franchise is way ahead of what any of us could have expected 12-18 or even four months ago

[oregonred]

The Denver QB's are horrid. I do find it somewhat ironic that Elway can't find a reliable QB. They would be a super bowl team with a decent QB. Will they win the Aaron Rodgers sweepstakes next season?


Why would Aaron Rodgers ever leave the QB and coaching poor NFC North to come over to the AFC West and face Mahomes and Herbert four times a year?

Same as Brady with the historically QB-Awful AFC East 2000-2019, a poor division is the ticket to postseason advantage and byes. Rodgers and GB remain in fat city as long as the Bears and Lions pretend to be NFL franchises.

[UKFlounder]

I think some of the frustration is because as much improved as this season has been, it is so close to bring so, do much better - the close loss to a very bad Bears team, the OT loss at home to Green Bay, the inexcusable showing against the Jets and the blown OT lead against the 49ers. Even if only half those results go the other way, we’re at 10 wins and probably a lock for the playoffs, yet all 4 went the wrong way. I think that is reslly frustrating - so much “could have been.”

[The Operator]

I still maintain Zac's predictable offensive schemes and playcalling let DL and Edge rushers pin their ears back without much worry of misdirections, screens and new wrinkles. The OLine is better and needs work in the offseason, but the playcalling, slow starts and offensive gameplanning is the biggest issue.

Compare the looks you get with KC, the Chargers and the Patriots and it doesn't compare

I’ve wondered more than once if Taylor’s play calling is making the line look worse than they are.


I have no problem with Zac Taylor the head coach. Seems like the players would run through a wall for him and that like 75% of the battle right there. But part of being a leader is realizing where you need to delegate duties to subordinates and this is a clear case where he needs to do that with the offensive play calling.

They’re just too predictable and they aren’t playing to their strengths. They spent a ton of draft capital on Burrow/Higgins/Chase and also have a great 3rd option with Boyd. Yet for some reason he continues just absolutely forcing the issue trying to use Mixon like he’s Nick Chubb.

The Bengals should be using their passing game to get ahead which will open up running lanes for Mixon. Instead they typically do it the other way around. How many times have we seen “Mixon for 2, Mixon for 1” and then Burrow is running for his life on 3rd & 7 because they’ve put themselves in an obvious passing situation.

[Todd Gack]

Not really bitter and have you read your posts talk about bizarre turn of events when you call other posters bitter ...if you are going to call out Smith for being the 6th member of the O line at least get his name right...D'Ante...

Not really much to say about Carmen at this point...I have heard 0 about him the last few weeks...beat writers haven't mentioned him at all, not even Hobson can spin that one. If you can't see the field with as bad as this o line is it says something about your career outlook.

Biggest concern I have is Mixon...if he is down next week we might be DOA

I wasn't calling out Smith for being the 6th OL. I was calling out Carman for him being like the 8th/9th or whatever OL he is.

Carman played 33 snaps yesterday. 0 last week and a combined 23 the two weeks before. He's almost non-existent and is only played that much because of injuries. Our OL is now "average" even though Joe has been sacked 41 times? We still have 3 games left and we're lucky he's still healthy.

[Redsfaithful]

I think some of the frustration is because as much improved as this season has been, it is so close to bring so, do much better - the close loss to a very bad Bears team, the OT loss at home to Green Bay, the inexcusable showing against the Jets and the blown OT lead against the 49ers. Even if only half those results go the other way, we’re at 10 wins and probably a lock for the playoffs, yet all 4 went the wrong way. I think that is reslly frustrating - so much “could have been.”

When they get in anyway, none of that is going to matter.

[Todd Gack]

I think some of the frustration is because as much improved as this season has been, it is so close to bring so, do much better - the close loss to a very bad Bears team, the OT loss at home to Green Bay, the inexcusable showing against the Jets and the blown OT lead against the 49ers. Even if only half those results go the other way, we’re at 10 wins and probably a lock for the playoffs, yet all 4 went the wrong way. I think that is reslly frustrating - so much “could have been.”

All of those losses were because of coaching too.