Cincinnati Bengals Super Bowl Thread: Why Not Us?

[dubc47834]

Stafford with the HOF knockin...knocking... he answer the door?

[Roy Tucker]

Kind of an ugly game.

[dubc47834]

Russ Wilson with the brownie points!

[OldFashionedRed]

:(

[Roy Tucker]

Don’t like this.

[Playadlc]

How many false starts are they going to get away with?

[Wonderful Monds]

Biggest red zone defensive stand I’ve ever seen in my life

[dubc47834]

How many false starts are they going to get away with?

???

[OldFashionedRed]

Well, that idiot's running onto the field is going to be the thing that lost the game, I'm afraid. If we lose, he needs to be released.

[dubc47834]

Well, that idiot's running onto the field is going to be the thing that lost the game, I'm afraid. If we lose, he needs to be released.

No...how the rest of this drive goes...win or lose!

[Roy Tucker]

That’s a crap call.

[OldFashionedRed]

Going to choke this one away. He's holding him :(

[The Operator]

Garbage penalty

[CTA513]

With all the non calls now is when they call a ticky tacky penalty?

[RedsBaron]

That’s a crap call.

yep

[OldFashionedRed]

Completely pissed away this game with penalties and not protecting the pass. We couldn't sack him, so why not drop back?

[The Operator]

Refs have decided to take the game over

[RedsBaron]

Refs have decided to take the game over

yep

[dubc47834]

Refs have decided to take the game over

He pulled the jersey!!!!!!

[WVRed]

Refs have decided to take the game over

Just let them score and live or die with Burrow.

[Reds Freak]

I cant believe they called that hold on Wilson. Would have been 4th and 10. The one on Apple was definitely a hold but come on.

[OldFashionedRed]

Game over.

[WVRed]

Game over.

1:25 with two timeouts to score at least a FG. It’s not over.

[Playadlc]

He pulled the jersey!!!!!!

Stop it. Just stop it.

[Rojo Rijo]

Still can’t believe LAs whole line moved early yet they let it go and threw a flag on that weak defensive holding.

[dubc47834]

Joe Cool time?

[OldFashionedRed]

1:25 with two timeouts to score at least a FG. It’s not over.

Call me pessimistic, but outside of a 75 yard TD pass because the referee didn't see the face mask, Burrow has struggled mightily with this weak o-line.

[OldFashionedRed]

This organization is so overdue for a SB win.

[WVRed]

CHASE!!!

[dubc47834]

Stop it. Just stop it.

That last penalty absolutely was a PI...the one before...debateable

[OldFashionedRed]

This o-line is so awful that Joe has to throw one 10 yards out of bounds.

[CTA513]

Game over, start working on that o-line

[OldFashionedRed]

Now it's over. Good night everyone.

[The Operator]

Ugh

[Wonderful Monds]

Well.

[OldFashionedRed]

And release that dummy who came onto the field.

[The Operator]

Bengals win this game by 2 scores with even an average offensive line.


I’m sick to my stomach right now.

[dubc47834]

Great season Bengal fans...you guys will get back!!!

[kaldaniels]

Refs have decided to take the game over

I feel ya but are you looking the other way on that face mask in the long TD?

[Todd Gack]

Bengals win this game by 2 scores with even an average offensive line.


I’m sick to my stomach right now.

“Don’t worry. We’ll be back.”

Cincy fans are so ignorant.

[Roy Tucker]

Well that ended with a dull thud.

[Todd Gack]

“Don’t worry. We’ll be back.”

Cincy fans are so ignorant.

Tyler Boyd. Congrats on the Lewis Billups drop.

[Reds Freak]

“Don’t worry. We’ll be back.”

Cincy fans are so ignorant.

Mr Sunshine all season long.

[Stray]

Bummer ending, but man that was a fun ride. Just imagine what we'll do with a decent offensive line.

Great season.

[Reds Freak]

Tyler Boyd. Congrats on the Lewis Billups drop.

Please. He wasn't getting that first down.

[dubc47834]

I feel ya but are you looking the other way on that face mask in the long TD?

Exactly...Bengals O-line cost them this game.

[Todd Gack]

Mr Sunshine all season long.

Ya’ll taking this game for granted.

[Stray]

And wow our defense played a phenomenal game. Lou can coach.

[Wonderful Monds]

Ya’ll taking this game for granted.

Shut up. Seriously.

[UKFlounder]

Losing to Matt Stanford is not the legacy I expected for Joe Burrow, but that isv reality.

Just a sad, sad ending to a once in a lifetime season.

[Reds Freak]

Ya’ll taking this game for granted.

Who is taking it for granted? We're Cincinnati fans. No one expects to do this every year. I wouldn't be surprised if it's another 30.

[Stray]

Losing yo Matt Stanford is not the legacy I expected for Joe Burrow, but theirs reality.

Just a sad, sad ending to a once in a lifetime season.

No reason to think this was once in a lifetime. But even if it is, I had fun.

[Betterread]

Great game. Bengals played hard, played smart, even cheated well. Keep adding talent, keep that chip on your shoulder and buy some decent blockers.

[Todd Gack]

Shut up. Seriously.

I mean seriously. We were as healthy as any team in the NFL. We all just assume Joe coming back like 8 times. How many times have people talked about a dynasty?

[dubc47834]

Shut up. Seriously.

Stay classy!!!

[Wonderful Monds]

Yeah great defense. They played a hell of a game. Came down to basically the last second.


It’s just a shame to imagine what they could’ve done if they had gone in on the O-Line. And the Jackson Carman pick is feeling like a massive kick in the balls right now. If they hadn’t gone with a project, who knows who might be in his place.

[SteelSD]

Much respect to the Bengals. They left it all out on the field. Burrow is the real deal and I'd like to think that he'll get at least one more shot over his career.

[757690]

That second down call was a head scratcher. They didn’t rush to the line, took their time, then just threw the ball away.

Two key times the Bengals had second and 1 and couldn’t get it done with poor play calling.

[KoryMac5]

Another heart breaker…

[kaldaniels]

That second down call was a head scratcher. They didn’t rush to the line, took their time, then just threw the ball away.

Two key times the Bengals had second and 1 and couldn’t get it done with poor play calling.

The Rams D looked out of sorts. I wondered if Burrow thought he had something there but the WR didn’t run the fly route.

[Wonderful Monds]

Also yeah Taylor is a great player coach, but some great creative calls aside, he does leave much to be desired.


That’s not calling for him to go, just saying it didn’t help.

[OldFashionedRed]

The on-line needs replacing, the guy who came into the field to celebrate needs released. You simply don't do something like that if you're a professional and care more about your own teammates than getting yours.

[757690]

A punch in the gut, but the Bengals are Burrow and Chase, and that looks to be great for many years to come. It should be a fun future at the very least.

[traderumor]

That was so much like the '88 loss. Crappy call on Wilson.

Great season, so sad to end this way, hopefully we have some more trips in our future.

[Todd Gack]

A lot of these players are going to become too expensive to sign. We were as healthy as possible. Our FA signings were great but will that continue? Will we continue to draft as well as we have? A lot of things went our way this year which is why you have to believe that NOW is the time to win. Not ext eyatkk no or year after. You want to play Mahomes again next year? Or Allen? AFC is loaded.

[Wonderful Monds]

Just like I didn’t really know how to feel or how to act with my team going to the Super Bowl, I don’t really know how to act now that they’ve lost it either.


Man this blows. Really felt like we were the team of destiny. Feeling pretty bummed.

[KronoRed]

Some of those play calls were just awful, the last two for sure, if you're gonna throw for it try that on 3rd and 1.

[Roy Tucker]

Bengals *really* need to go buy some offensive linemen. That was pretty pathetic.

[RedTeamGo!]

Great game and season, Bengals fans. You will be back. Burrow is just a kid in terms of NFL QBs.

With that said, those two last plays by Donald were otherworldly. Just absurd, what a player.

[Stray]

Nothing but positives to take away from this season

[oregonred]

Yeah that 3rd down penalty then the headscratching 2nd and 3rd and 1 calls on the 50. Man. Left a lot of chances to get a two score lead and could never get there. That 3rd down run with Perine taking the ball out of Joe's hands... Simply awful. Zac holds this team back at times and that was a killer.

[traderumor]

“Don’t worry. We’ll be back.”

Cincy fans are so ignorant.

I know you regularly play this vibe, but minutes after a heart breaking loss is a new low for you.

[Stray]

Some play calls were weird, but the Rams D-Line probably took away most of our passing playbook with their pass rush.

[Reds Freak]

Everyone knew the OL was a problem, they weren't going to magically get better for the Super Bowl against the Rams front.

Still, that game was there for the taking. Or at least still playing in OT right now.

[Todd Gack]

I know you regularly play this vibe, but minutes after a heart breaking loss is a new low for you.

Don’t worry. I’m sure getting our franchise QB’s leg almost shredded again made you feel a little better.

[Reds Freak]

Yeah that 3rd down penalty then the headscratching 2nd and 3rd and 1 calls on the 50. Man. Left a lot of chances to get a two score lead and could never get there. That 3rd down run with Perine taking the ball out of Joe's hands... Simply awful. Zac holds this team back at times and that was a killer.

I disagree. Looked like it was gonna be an easy way to pick up a fresh set of downs. Donald just made an incredible play.

- - - Updated - - -


Don’t worry. I’m sure getting our franchise QB’s leg almost shredded again made you feel a little better.

Might be time to hit the sack, Todd.

[Roy Tucker]

Watching Seinfeld reruns. Don’t want to listen to how great the Rams are.

[traderumor]

Don’t worry. I’m sure getting our franchise QB’s leg almost shredded again made you feel a little better.

Just stop man. Seriously.

[oregonred]

Well pretty clear it's all about the oline in the off-season. The AFC is loaded and next year 1st place schedule will be a slog .

This was house money, but it was there for the storybook ending. They should have stole this one.

[Todd Gack]

Just stop man. Seriously.

Why do I feel like I’m protecting Burrow more than anyone else on this board?

[Stray]

Watching Seinfeld reruns. Don’t want to listen to how great the Rams are.

Same, but I just found something on Netflix to play in the background that isn't football.

[paintmered]

There's plenty to dwell on about tonight and what could or should have been, but there's no reason to think that this team won't continue to get better into next season.

[WVRed]

Stay classy!!!

You’re the one who’s actively been cheering against the Bengals in a Bengals Super Bowl thread.

[Bob Sheed]

No worries. Burrow, Higgins, Boyd. Chase. Mixon. That defense. This was house money anyway. Who Dey.

[oregonred]

Stan Kroenke. Man of the people.

[Stray]

Why do I feel like I’m protecting Burrow more than anyone else on this board?

Yeah man, you're really protecting our QB s*** posting on Redszone after the loss.

[Todd Gack]

This loss hurts more because we should’ve won. Period. Beckham was gone but our offense disappeared after the INT.

[Betterread]

Don’t be too hard on Zach Taylor for any questionable play calls. Blame the OC if you blame anyone. You can always get a new OC. Good head coaches are harder to find. I think Taylor did a great job today. The Rams were more talented but had to score last to win. If anything mcVay seemed more nervous and conservative in his strategy.

[kaldaniels]

Run defense was amazing.

[dubc47834]

You’re the one who’s actively been cheering against the Bengals in a Bengals Super Bowl thread.

Because there wasn't a game thread!

[Stray]

Run defense was amazing.

Gave them nothing all game. It was impressive.

[dubc47834]

You’re the one who’s actively been cheering against the Bengals in a Bengals Super Bowl thread.

I think I've been fair...threw some praise to the Bengals when it was called for!

[Falls City Beer]

There's plenty to dwell on about tonight and what could or should have been, but there's no reason to think that this team won't continue to get better into next season.

Yeah, don’t know if they have the acumen to find the pieces year after year, but they’ve got two incredible principals in Burrow and Chase. They can make noise as long as they beef up the o line.

[Todd Gack]

Yeah man, you're really protecting our QB s*** posting on Redszone after the loss.

I mean, I’ve been actively trying to protect our franchise QB for two years.

[oregonred]

Pretty sad to troll on this thread, but whatever. Have fun.

[Reds Freak]

I mean, I’ve been actively trying to protect our franchise QB for two years.

Did you try out for the team?

[dubc47834]

Pretty sad to troll on this thread, but whatever. Have fun.

Dude...not trolling...sorry you think that!

[Rdirtypirates]

I know you regularly play this vibe, but minutes after a heart breaking loss is a new low for you.

Yeah, I am going to have to stay out of this thread and off social media. Too many people like this fine gentlemen who claims to be a fan, and after this season that they reached the Super Bowl and lose like this and he comes up with this garbage.

[Stray]

I'm really happy Whit got a ring.

[Reds Freak]

Bengals have lost three Super Bowls by a combined 12 points.

[Playadlc]

Just like I didn’t really know how to feel or how to act with my team going to the Super Bowl, I don’t really know how to act now that they’ve lost it either.


Man this blows. Really felt like we were the team of destiny. Feeling pretty bummed.

Agree with this. Never been this upset after a game. Just sad.

[dubc47834]

Pretty sad to troll on this thread, but whatever. Have fun.

You never said a word...until your team lost...sorry you're a sore loser!!!

Ima be out fellas...CONGRATS on your awesome season. You're built for the long haul!!!

[RedTeamGo!]

This loss hurts more because we should’ve won. Period. Beckham was gone but our offense disappeared after the INT.

Just admit you’re pissed because you didn’t hedge lol

[oregonred]

You never said a word...until your team lost...sorry you're a sore loser!!!

Ima be out fellas...CONGRATS on your awesome season. You're built for the long haul!!!
Whatever Bro...

[The Operator]

You never said a word...until your team lost...sorry you're a sore loser!!!

Ima be out fellas...CONGRATS on your awesome season. You're built for the long haul!!!

You came into a Bengals Game Thread actively rooting against us and you’re surprised when people are upset with you, especially considering the heartbreaking fashion that game was lost?

Come on man.

[Falls City Beer]

Incredible season. Unbelievable turnaround for the franchise. They’ll be back. In Joe We Trust.

[Todd Gack]

I know you regularly play this vibe, but minutes after a heart breaking loss is a new low for you.

You’re not 100% wrong. It’s not good to say this stuff immediately after the game but I’m not wrong either.

[Todd Gack]

Just admit you’re pissed because you didn’t hedge lol

I actually did when we went up in 2H to get more juice. Not much, but enough to even put my feelings.

[Redhook]

Man, that ending was incredibly disappointing and shocking. I’m super bummed and upset. While it was a
mini miracle they played today in the Super Bowl, they blew it. Royally. They flat out stunk the late 20 minutes or so. Just one great play and they would’ve won.

[dubc47834]

You came into a Bengals Game Thread actively rooting against us and you’re surprised when people are upset with you, especially considering the heartbreaking fashion that game was lost?

Come on man.

You missed all the GOOD stuff I said. I said from the beginning I was rooting for the Rams. Nobody said a peep about it until the clock struck zero. It's all good...I understand being upset. It was a tough lose.

[KoryMac5]

This loss hurts more because we should’ve won. Period. Beckham was gone but our offense disappeared after the INT.

The offense didn’t disappear the Rams defense showed up…we didn’t make the adjustments needed to stop the rush. Rams were the better team.

[UKFlounder]

Disappointing, not shocking.

This is Bengals football




Man, that ending was incredibly disappointing and shocking. I’m super bummed and upset. While it was a
mini miracle they played today in the Super Bowl, they blew it. Royally. They flat out stunk the late 20 minutes or so. Just one great play and they would’ve won.

[KoryMac5]

You missed all the GOOD stuff I said. I said from the beginning I was rooting for the Rams. Nobody said a peep about it until the clock struck zero. It's all good...I understand being upset. It was a tough lose.

Why come here to a Bengals thread to openly root for the Rams seems like an odd choice.

[dubc47834]

Why come here to a Bengals thread to openly root for the Rams seems like an odd choice.

Maybe next time create a game thread!

[KoryMac5]

Incredible season. Unbelievable turnaround for the franchise. They’ll be back. In Joe We Trust.

Agreed future is bright…lots of talent surrounding him just need better blocking up front. Exciting time to be a fan. We hadn’t won a playoff game in 31 years and we got 3 this time around.

[Reds Freak]

Wow, watching replays of the Wilson hold. I guess it evens out with the break the Bengals got on the Higgins TD, but just a ridiculous call in that situation. Especially when you haven't called a thing all game.

[KoryMac5]

Maybe next time create a game thread!

This is the game thread…we discuss all things Bengals in here games, draft, etc…

[membengal]

Proud of them. Helluva run and helluva game.

[traderumor]

What a fun ride, ended with a mighty thud, but still better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all.

I am very disappointed in the holding call, all things considered. Very cheesy flag compared to "let them play" officiating throughout the playoffs.

But, we had multiple chances to make it a two score game and could not get it done. It certainly did not come down to that one play.

[dubc47834]

This is the game thread…we discuss all things Bengals in here games, draft, etc…

Nah...not a game thread. If you consider this the game thread, then I did nothing wrong. Like I said, not a peep until the clock struck zero. NOBODY said a word the whole time, because things were going good. Once it wasn't, I came the release for your frustration...I get it!

[RiverRat13]

Great season. And yes the future is bright but I don't agree with the house money sentiment. No guarantee that they will ever get back and they had every chance to win this one. But this is a heck of a lot better than 6-25-1.

[WrongVerb]

That was fun. Now go fix the offensive line.

[KoryMac5]

Agreed it stings to lose no doubt but I will take the pain of losing a close SB any day over imploding against Pittsburgh or being a 3 win team. Heads up hopefully we can have some draft and FA talk coming up. Also congratulations to big Whit very deserving of a ring and still much loved around here.

[SunDeck]

I think the holding call made up for the no call when Higgins pulled Ramsey's face mask. Great game though, of course it's disappointing, but what a great month for Bengals fans, right?

[Wonderful Monds]

Nah...not a game thread. If you consider this the game thread, then I did nothing wrong. Like I said, not a peep until the clock struck zero. NOBODY said a word the whole time, because things were going good. Once it wasn't, I came the release for your frustration...I get it!

You should also shut up, for real.

[Wonderful Monds]

I mean at the end of the day, that’s what happens when your QB is the most sacked in the league.


And they were still leading with minutes left. But yeah, you never know if you’ll get the breaks to make it back. We got a lot to make it this time.


Gonna take me a while to wrap my head around this.

[KoryMac5]

Nah...not a game thread. If you consider this the game thread, then I did nothing wrong. Like I said, not a peep until the clock struck zero. NOBODY said a word the whole time, because things were going good. Once it wasn't, I came the release for your frustration...I get it!

Now your criticizing the game thread…we talked about the game non stop in here…it’s not a play by play.

I have lost a lot bigger things in my life than football games so you won’t see frustration from me…perhaps that was your ultimate goal though which is a bit sad at the end of the day. Sometimes you have to learn to read the room and show a little empathy.

[WVRed]

Proud of them. Helluva run and helluva game.

This is where I’m at too.

I’ve been reading social media and everyone is making it sound so easy to just “add an oline and be back next year. I love this team and agree with the notion but it’s a lot harder to get back to the Super Bowl unless you are Tom Brady.

The Ravens were snakebit last year but they will likely reload. Pittsburgh could be competitive by upgrading from Roethlisberger. Cleveland was in the playoffs a year ago as well.

Then you have playing the Chiefs, Bills, Patriots, and Cowboys next season. Tom Brady retiring made the NFC South a cakewalk but I wouldn’t be surprised if they aren’t playing a wildcard game next season just to advance.

[KoryMac5]

Apple, Hill, Bates, Larry O, Uzomah, Spain…all important free agents

[dubc47834]

Great season Bengal fans...you guys will get back!!!

Empathy???

[KoryMac5]

This is where I’m at too.

I’ve been reading social media and everyone is making it sound so easy to just “add an oline and be back next year. I love this team and agree with the notion but it’s a lot harder to get back to the Super Bowl unless you are Tom Brady.

The Ravens were snakebit last year but they will likely reload. Pittsburgh could be competitive by upgrading from Roethlisberger. Cleveland was in the playoffs a year ago as well.

Then you have playing the Chiefs, Bills, Patriots, and Cowboys next season. Tom Brady retiring made the NFC South a cakewalk but I wouldn’t be surprised if they aren’t playing a wildcard game next season just to advance.

Fun time to be a fan isn’t it plenty of good teams with great QB play…I am excited about the future.

[traderumor]

This is where I’m at too.

I’ve been reading social media and everyone is making it sound so easy to just “add an oline and be back next year. I love this team and agree with the notion but it’s a lot harder to get back to the Super Bowl unless you are Tom Brady.

The Ravens were snakebit last year but they will likely reload. Pittsburgh could be competitive by upgrading from Roethlisberger. Cleveland was in the playoffs a year ago as well.

Then you have playing the Chiefs, Bills, Patriots, and Cowboys next season. Tom Brady retiring made the NFC South a cakewalk but I wouldn’t be surprised if they aren’t playing a wildcard game next season just to advance.

It is hard, but when you have a championship caliber QB and good targets in house, you have a good start to building something sustainable, like KC has done.

[RiverRat13]

Apple, Hill, Bates, Larry O, Uzomah, Spain…all important free agentsThey have a ton of cap room but also a lot of guys to bring back.

[UKFlounder]

This offense really disappeared most of the last 6 weeks. Could not even get 30 points fonce week 17.

For all the hype this offense gets, it surely let the defense down tonight. It has to get better than settling for so many field goals

[KoryMac5]

They have a ton of cap room but also a lot of guys to bring back.

Cutting Wayne’s gets you even more… I think they can bring back 50 percent or more plus make a big splash with 2 lineman. Burrow is huge to get guys wanting to come here.

[Redsfaithful]

It hurts right now but this season will be a happy memory. I believe Bengals fans will look back on this group really fondly and with a lot of love.

I can't do the conversation about getting back right now but we have a lot of good football in front of us, I do know that.

[KoryMac5]

This offense really disappeared most of the last 6 weeks. Could not even get 30 points fonce week 17.

For all the hype this offense gets, it surely let the defense down tonight. It has to get better than settling for so many field goals

The line just kills them…Burrow was averaging less than 3 seconds each throw…that’s time to get through maybe 2 progressions. Redszone offense absolutely killed them in the playoffs.

[Wonderful Monds]

The more I’m reading about that late holding penalty, the harder this is to swallow

[Roy Tucker]

Things will look better tomorrow.

[WrongVerb]

The more I’m reading about that late holding penalty, the harder this is to swallow

Yeah that wasn't a hold. But there was the no facemask call, too. It evened it out.

[Redhook]

The more I’m reading about that late holding penalty, the harder this is to swallow

Agreed man. I’m very disappointed. They should’ve won that game. I’m not going to say they were screwed, but I can’t believe they lost after holding the lead for so long. They might/should be back, but there’s no guarantee as we know. It was an amazing year, but that ending is tough to accept.

[oregonred]

Yeah that wasn't a hold. But there was the no facemask call, too. It evened it out.
A call with 14:48 in the 3rd quarter is not equivalent to a game deciding call with a minute left. It was an odd flag the way the game was being called - or not called. And what was the Bell penalty. That was a legit good hit with everything on the line. I wasn't able to replay that one with a lot of people over.

- - - Updated - - -


The line just kills them…Burrow was averaging less than 3 seconds each throw…that’s time to get through maybe 2 progressions. Redszone offense absolutely killed them in the playoffs.

This is so right on

[Reds Freak]

A call with 14:48 in the 3rd quarter is not equivalent to a game deciding call with a minute left. It was an odd flag the way the game was being called - or not called. And what was the Bell penalty. That was a legit good hit with everything on the line. I wasn't able to replay that one with a lot of people over.

I don't think they ever showed a good replay on that one. They didn't really show the hold on the Rams and didn't look like a hit to the head by Bell.

The call on Apple was the right one though. Reminded me of all the crazy flags at the end of the first Bengals/Chiefs game.

[Redsfaithful]

The more I’m reading about that late holding penalty, the harder this is to swallow

Entire Rams line false started - https://twitter.com/michaelFhurley/status/1493055083713544192

The facemask thing with Higgins, when you watch it in real time it's less than a split second, it's not hard to understand how the officials would miss it. The video above though, how does that get missed in such a critical spot? And that's before even looking at what a reach the holding penalty was.

That's my last post on officiating, it's pointless but it's tough to stomach.

[Wonderful Monds]

Yeah that wasn't a hold. But there was the no facemask call, too. It evened it out.

Yeah I thought about that. Idk, it just seems messed up that they basically held their flags all game, and then after the 2 minute warning they call a metric ****ton of penalties.

If they had just called the game consistently it would’ve been one thing. Like…..either let them play or don’t, but you can’t suddenly pull a flag parade out of your ass from nowhere when the game is on the line.

[KoryMac5]

Agreed man. I’m very disappointed. They should’ve won that game. I’m not going to say they were screwed, but I can’t believe they lost after holding the lead for so long. They might/should be back, but there’s no guarantee as we know. It was an amazing year, but that ending is tough to accept.

Yep I looked at the wife who humors my fandom…she had tears in her eyes knowing how bad I wanted this. It sucks for sure…but we had a hell of a time this season.

[The Operator]

Just really having a hard time coming to terms with this.


Burrow/Chase is great and I think they’ll be in the thick of it for a while but we were in The Super Bowl with a lead in the 4th quarter and let it slip away. Everybody said Dan Marino would be back too and we know how that turned out.

Just really dejected right now. Great season, great group of guys… but heartbreaking at the end. I should be used to that as a Cincinnati sports fan but it never gets easier, and in fact, this game light take over from the 2012 Reds as my “what could/should have been” one that got away.

[757690]

The random holding call late in the game is reminiscent of the Seahawks/Steelers Super Bowl. In both cases, probably a holding penalty, but one that almost never gets called at that point of a big game, especially the Super Bowl.

It’s almost as if in both bases, the league wanted a certain team to win…

[Stray]

I'm kinda the opposite. "Used to this" as a Cincinnati fan would be being totally terrible or being good enough to give us hope, and then crapping the bed in the playoffs. We made the Superbowl in year 2 of a rebuild. Our team isn't even constructed properly yet. We have some nice pieces and some not so nice. That we were able to get to the SB with these fixable weaknesses is not a bad thing. Obv nothing is guaranteed, but I believe in Joe Burrow. This is just the beginning. We have the hardest thing to find, the QB. We're likely in for a decade of these gut wrenching playoff games and that's exciting.

- - - Updated - - -


The random holding call late in the game is reminiscent of the Seahawks/Steelers Super Bowl. In both cases, probably a holding penalty, but one that almost never gets called at that point of a big game, especially the Super Bowl.

It’s almost as if in both bases, the league wanted a certain team to win…

We got the benefit of the doubt a few times in our playoff run. I'm not gonna complain, but you're right that hold was bogus.

[Reds Freak]

The random holding call late in the game is reminiscent of the Seahawks/Steelers Super Bowl. In both cases, probably a holding penalty, but one that almost never gets called at that point of a big game, especially the Super Bowl.

It’s almost as if in both bases, the league wanted a certain team to win…

I don't know. In the second quarter of a random week 4 game, I'm not sure the Wilson play is called a hold. It would have been freaking 4th and 10 there.

- - - Updated - - -


I'm kinda the opposite. "Used to this" as a Cincinnati fan would be being totally terrible or being good enough to give us hope, and then crapping the bed in the playoffs. We made the Superbowl in year 2 of a rebuild. Our team isn't even constructed properly yet. We have some nice pieces and some not so nice. That we were able to get to the SB with these fixable weaknesses is not a bad thing. Obv nothing is guaranteed, but I believe in Joe Burrow. This is just the beginning. We have the hardest thing to find, the QB. We're likely in for a decade of these gut wrenching playoff games and that's exciting.

- - - Updated - - -



We got the benefit of the doubt a few times in our playoff run. I'm not gonna complain, but you're right that hold was bogus.

This is also true.

[KoryMac5]

Just really having a hard time coming to terms with this.


Burrow/Chase is great and I think they’ll be in the thick of it for a while but we were in The Super Bowl with a lead in the 4th quarter and let it slip away. Everybody said Dan Marino would be back too and we know how that turned out.

Just really dejected right now. Great season, great group of guys… but heartbreaking at the end. I should be used to that as a Cincinnati sports fan but it never gets easier, and in fact, this game light take over from the 2012 Reds as my “what could/should have been” one that got away.

On paper the Rams are much better…OBJ really set them back when he went out.

Their defense stepped up and the offense had 0 answers with Burrow getting sacked 6 times after half.

But yeah it’s tough losing a winnable game…you’re stuck with the what ifs and should of been.

[Betterread]

Cooper Kupp gets a deserved MVP award. He caught the game wining TD pass just a few plays after a dirty late helmet to helmet hit by Bell. Showed me he was tough as well as skilled. Bengals did a great job to hold him under a 100 yds, but when a key play was needed he came through.
But Aaron Donald wins best player for me.
Burrow was the better QB. Taylor was the better coach.

[Stray]

Burrow got us to the playoffs and certainly made game winning plays to help us advance. But the reason we won 3 playoff games this season was because of Lou Anarumo's defense. I hope this guy stays here forever because his schemes and adjustments are amazing. It was funny how pundits all thought the Rams would easily run the ball based on Lou's scheme against the Chiefs. Lou of course was giving those runs to the Chiefs betting on them not sticking with it. Rams got nothing on the ground today.

[Stray]

But Aaron Donald wins best player for me.

Aaron Donald is one of the best players to ever play football. Maybe the best if we ignore QB and skill position bias. The good news is he might retire to spend time with his family now. I hope he does and wish him well.

[Wonderful Monds]

Entire Rams line false started - https://twitter.com/michaelFhurley/status/1493055083713544192

The facemask thing with Higgins, when you watch it in real time it's less than a split second, it's not hard to understand how the officials would miss it. The video above though, how does that get missed in such a critical spot? And that's before even looking at what a reach the holding penalty was.

That's my last post on officiating, it's pointless but it's tough to stomach.

I’m not one to think that NFL games are literally fixed. But I do think they put they their thumb on the scale. And it doesn’t help that they partnered with all these betting firms this year.

If they had called the game consistently it would be one thing.


I just wish I didn’t have to think about any of this and felt they had just been beaten cleanly.

[KoryMac5]

Burrow felt he could have played better says he will still go out and celebrate with the team and reminisce about a great season.

[kaldaniels]

I went back and watched the holding call.

I’d never say “that’s perfect defense” because it’s gonna be a flag many times. I understand it was ticky tack upon replay and I understand the game situation. But I have to figure as much as the ref doesn’t want to throw a “bad” flag there, he also doesn’t want to keep it in his pocket if it was legit holding.

- - - Updated - - -


Burrow felt he could have played better says he will still go out and celebrate with the team and reminisce about a great season.

Well deserved.

[kaldaniels]

KC and Buffalo odds on SB favorites for next year.

KC 13-2
Buff 7-1

LAR 10-1
Cin 12-1

[Betterread]

Yeah that wasn't a hold. But there was the no facemask call, too. It evened it out.

I agree. It was PI. He had both hands on his waist with the ball in the air. The refs gave the Bengals a gift by not putting the ball at the one yard line where the foul occurred. They called the lesser of the two fouls committed in the play.

[Reds Freak]

As terrible as the holding call was, both teams got a questionable TD. I think one of the biggest fails was the drive after the interception. I can't remember how that drive stalled out, but if you punch them in the mouth after halftime and go up 24-13, I'm not sure they come back from that. Obviously 11 points isn't insurmountable in a quarter and a half, but felt that was the big missed opportunity.

[kaldaniels]

Silver lining is that Donald and Whitworth got rings.

I’d have put them on a top-10 list of most deserving players in the league.

[Redhook]

Silver lining is that Donald and Whitworth got rings.

I’d have put them on a top-10 list of most deserving players in the league.

That doesn’t help. I’d put Bengals fans as the number 1 most deserving in the league :laugh:

[kaldaniels]

That doesn’t help. I’d put Bengals fans as the number 1 most deserving in the league :laugh:

Request denied.

You are speaking to a Browns fan. :D

[RedTeamGo!]

Entire Rams line false started - https://twitter.com/michaelFhurley/status/1493055083713544192

The facemask thing with Higgins, when you watch it in real time it's less than a split second, it's not hard to understand how the officials would miss it. The video above though, how does that get missed in such a critical spot? And that's before even looking at what a reach the holding penalty was.

That's my last post on officiating, it's pointless but it's tough to stomach.

I can’t buy that with the facemask. The refs make facemask calls all the time. It’s their job. That was blatant.

I know this is a bengals board, but come on that facemask resulted in a 75 yard touchdown lol.

[wolfboy]

It was hard to be upset seeing Whit up on the stage. My biggest things to fix in the offseasons: 1. Offensive Line. 2. Taylor's play calling (someone else needs to take this over). 3. CB play - Eli Apple played admirably this season but he's not the answer. Hard loss but plenty to be optimistic about going forward.

[RedTeamGo!]

Yeah I thought about that. Idk, it just seems messed up that they basically held their flags all game, and then after the 2 minute warning they call a metric ****ton of penalties.

If they had just called the game consistently it would’ve been one thing. Like…..either let them play or don’t, but you can’t suddenly pull a flag parade out of your ass from nowhere when the game is on the line.

After the 2 minute warning they started throwing flags because the bengals were grabbing Kupp every play (not on the 3rd yard play, that was a bad call, but otherwise they were mugging him out there, and rightfully so.

[oregonred]

KC and Buffalo odds on SB favorites for next year.

KC 13-2
Buff 7-1

LAR 10-1
Cin 12-1
This looks right to me. Barring the Bengals getting some right side and center oline help

[Wonderful Monds]

After the 2 minute warning they started throwing flags because the bengals were grabbing Kupp every play (not on the 3rd yard play, that was a bad call, but otherwise they were mugging him out there, and rightfully so.

They were for sure, but there were also blatant missed holding calls on the Bengals too. It feels like they lowered they standards for fouls at that point.


They weren’t wrong to call fouls on the holds on Kupp, but the one where they flagged Logan Wilson was just objectively wrong. After an entire Super Bowl game of swallowing the whistle.

[RedTeamGo!]

I completely understand being upset about that 3rd down call. However, at the end of the day the bengals had 1:30ish to go about 40 yards to kick a field goal to tie it or go 75 to win it, and couldn’t get it done. That’s an eternity in the NFL. The refs had a bad call, but they also had a bad call that gifted the bengals a 75 yard touchdown. But again, 1:30 to tie or win and they got stuffed on 3rd and 4th and short yardage. Gotta tip your cap to Donald on that. Bengals need to fix the OL and they/you will certainly be back.

[Redsfaithful]

I can’t buy that with the facemask. The refs make facemask calls all the time. It’s their job. That was blatant.

I know this is a bengals board, but come on that facemask resulted in a 75 yard touchdown lol.

I didn't say they were right to miss it, but if you can watch that in real time and not admit you can see how it's missed you're lying. I'm guessing you've mostly seen the slowed down replays.

[DayGameRedLegs]

I'm so bummed the Bengals lost. We were so close to winning a Superbowl.

The way our offense got crushed in the second half after we scored 20 points... Just shows we better get it done next year with upgrading the O line.

They O line did really good the first half though and that weak holding call in the redzone almost sealed our fate.

Oh well. Very optimistic for the next few years and so proud the Bengals made it this far.

[kaldaniels]

I didn't say they were right to miss it, but if you can watch that in real time and not admit you can see how it's missed you're lying. I'm guessing you've mostly seen the slowed down replays.

Same with the holding call.

Hands unquestionably on the body and then whacks the ball away. Easy to see a wrong call come from that.

[KoryMac5]

Burrow says they won't focus entirely on how much this loss stings but will instead focus on the accomplishments of the season as well...good advice he said he got from watching Kurt Warner a football life.


"Obviously it stings but we had a great year," Burrow said. "Didn't come out this last game the way we wanted to but we still have something to celebrate."

He looks defeated obviously but also really focused on getting back to work...I have 0 doubt that this team will be back just from hearing him talk.

[Stray]

Silver lining is that Donald and Whitworth got rings.

I’d have put them on a top-10 list of most deserving players in the league.

Said it earlier tonight, but I'm really happy for Whit. Dude is a class act and phenomenal at his job. He deserves this.

[Reds Freak]

If you'd like to throw up a little more, I just saw Dehner point out that was the first time all season the Bengals went five straight possessions without scoring.

[Stray]

Burrow says they won't focus entirely on how much this loss stings but will instead focus on the accomplishments of the season as well...good advice he said he got from watching Kurt Warner a football life.

He looks defeated obviously but also really focused on getting back to work...I have 0 doubt that this team will be back just from hearing him talk.

I believe in Joe. And I believe that FA will want to play with Joe. I'm all in on this team's future.

[UKFlounder]

Nothing like disappearing in the biggest moments of the season



If you'd like to throw up a little more, I just saw Dehner point out that was the first time all season the Bengals went five straight possessions without scoring.

[Redsfaithful]

Same with the holding call.

Hands unquestionably on the body and then whacks the ball away. Easy to see a wrong call come from that.

Following 5-6 guys on the Rams false starting with no call, yeah.

[KoryMac5]

I have been watching a lot of Ted Lasso lately and his quote about losing and being alone really stands out for me tonight...


"I promise you there is something worse out there than being sad, and that's being alone and being sad. Ain't no one in this room alone."

Been a fun year...I appreciate every single one of the various opinions in this thread...thanks for not allowing each other to be alone with this loss. See you in a few days to talk FA and the draft

[Reds Freak]

Nothing like disappearing in the biggest moments of the season

Based on your posts this year, you didn't seem to enjoy this season at all.

[Wonderful Monds]

Silver lining is that Donald and Whitworth got rings.

I’d have put them on a top-10 list of most deserving players in the league.

I’m glad Whit got one, Donald is an all time great but is also a complete *******.

[kaldaniels]

I’m glad Whit got one, Donald is an all time great but is also a complete *******.

Totally open to that possibility - what makes you say that?

[kaldaniels]

Following 5-6 guys on the Rams false starting with no call, yeah.

True.

The refs were subpar tonight. But I really think it evened out. Burrow’s only TD was on a play that should have been negated. That obviously was huge in Cincy’s favor.

[Wonderful Monds]

Totally open to that possibility - what makes you say that?

Has a rep for losing his cool, choking dudes out. He had a borderline roughing the passer/late hit losing his temper on Burrow after that INT in the 3rd

[westofyou]

Bengals have won ten or more games 13 times, 5 of the those have been in the last 10 years, 7 in this century. They have lost 10 or more 20 times

I’ve been a Bengals fan for 47 years, the paragraph above irks me more than anything about today.

[CTA513]

True.

The refs were subpar tonight. But I really think it evened out. Burrow’s only TD was on a play that should have been negated. That obviously was huge in Cincy’s favor.

That TD helped make up for the TD they didn't get earlier when Ramsey was allowed to grab and pull on Higgins jersey while he was trying run a route past the 2 or 3 yard line after that big pass to Chase.

[Wonderful Monds]

The one thing that’s not really helping me at all right now is the “you’ll be back”, there’s always next year stuff.

Like man. Getting to the Super Bowl is hard. It requires ungodly amounts of talent AND luck which we got in spades. Tom Brady is kind of a freak exception. Guys like Brees, Manning, etc etc weren’t going to back to back Super Bowls, yknow. Perennial MVP and all time great QB Aaron Rodgers has been to one Super Bowl. As noted, Marino never made it back.

I just get this sick feeling that this was my chance to see the Bengals win the Super Bowl in my lifetime and it didn’t pan out.

[Falls City Beer]

The one thing that’s not really helping me at all right now is the “you’ll be back”, there’s always next year stuff.

Like man. Getting to the Super Bowl is hard. It requires ungodly amounts of talent AND luck which we got in spades. Tom Brady is kind of a freak exception. Guys like Brees, Manning, etc etc weren’t going to back to back Super Bowls, yknow. Perennial MVP and all time great QB Aaron Rodgers has been to one Super Bowl. As noted, Marino never made it back.

I just get this sick feeling that this was my chance to see the Bengals win the Super Bowl in my lifetime and it didn’t pan out.

Other than health, how were the Bengals lucky?

[GAC]

Refs have decided to take the game over

IMO. That's exactly what happened. Rarely any flags thrown all game. Quite amazing IMO. Then WHAM! But lets also admit the Bengals (Higgins) got away with one on the TD pass earlier.

JMO. But the Bengals came out roaring in the 2nd Half and put up 10 points. Afte that? Nada. And one can point the finger directly at the offensive line which collapsed quicker then the walls at the Alamo. And we all know this needs to be addressed going into next season. The Bengals defense played with heart IMO. Just couldn't get to Stafford. Of course a BIG part of that was Stafford feasting on CB Apple. Does he ever look back to find the ball in coverage?

I can't stand ESPN. The only thing they seemed to want to make their front page, when it came to the Bengals, was "Did the Bengal's Higgins get away with a P.I. on that TD pass?"

Overall, a good game, and quite winnable. Like Burrows said - it's fuel, and something to build on. Certainly can't hang their heads IMO. How many trips to the dance did it take Elway, and other great QBs, before they broke through? You got a young team.

[WVRed]

Just read something that made sense and of course the NFL ignored their own rules:

Cooper Kupp should have been in the concussion protocol after that hit by Vonn Bell.

[RiverRat13]

If you'd like to throw up a little more, I just saw Dehner point out that was the first time all season the Bengals went five straight possessions without scoring.The Rams made the adjustment to overload the defensive left side to prevent Hopkins to slide over to Donald. The Bengals had no answer for it.

[GAC]

The Bengal's got Bengal'd last night. The Bengals, this post-season, played some great ball but were the "comeback kids" pulling out the victory in the end. That's what the Rams did.

[Falls City Beer]

I’d be much much more worried about not seeing the Reds in the WS in your lifetime than not seeing the Bengals back in the Super Bowl.

[RiverRat13]

The Bengal's got Bengal'd last night. The Bengals, this post-season, played some great ball but were the "comeback kids" pulling out the victory in the end. That's what the Rams did.Perine not getting it on 3rd down reminded me of the consecutive weird calls by the Titans late where the Bengals stuffed them on 3rd and 4th down.

[traderumor]

the Higgins call was missed by the ref because he could not see it from where he was positioned and it happened fast in real time. Plausible to miss. The Wilson phantom holding call coupled with not calling a false start was poor officiating at crunch time in a championship game. With that said, it is typical of football because officiating in real time versus looking at replays show a lot of missed calls in every game, and we focus on those that involve game affecting results.

[Bob Sheed]

I am wondering how Burrow's knee is doing. He will get it evaluated when he gets back to Cincinnati. It sure seemed to bend funny there, and he seemed like he was in a lot of pain.

They REALLY need to fix the offensive line.

[RedTeamGo!]

I am wondering how Burrow's knee is doing. He will get it evaluated when he gets back to Cincinnati. It sure seemed to bend funny there, and he seemed like he was in a lot of pain.

They REALLY need to fix the offensive line.

I agree about this. My brother texted me after the last possession "WHY DID THEY RUN THE BALL ON THIRD???"

I told him, and I still believe it: I think they would have preferred to keep the ball in Burrow's hands, but they knew he couldn't move around and didn't want to push it. I hope Joe is ok.

[Todd Gack]

I agree about this. My brother texted me after the last possession "WHY DID THEY RUN THE BALL ON THIRD???"

I told him, and I still believe it: I think they would have preferred to keep the ball in Burrow's hands, but they knew he couldn't move around and didn't want to push it. I hope Joe is ok.

I thought the playcalling was "bad" because of his knee. They were trying to accommodate him as much as possible because it was hurt.

[Todd Gack]

Nothing like disappearing in the biggest moments of the season

I mean, that's the definition of a choke. Boyd's 1st drop of the season in one of the biggest moments?

[Reds Freak]

I mean, that's the definition of a choke. Boyd's 1st drop of the season in one of the biggest moments?

Nah. It was just a drop.

[Reds Freak]

I feel much better this morning than I did last night. But looking back, if you would have told me the Bengals would be +2 in turnovers, hit on a couple big plays, not allow any big plays, and completely shut down the run, I would have guessed they win that game by two TDs.

[oregonred]

I feel much better this morning than I did last night. But looking back, if you would have told me the Bengals would be +2 in turnovers, hit on a couple big plays, not allow any big plays, and completely shut down the run, I would have guessed they win that game by two TDs.

Thinking same thing.

But on the flip side. Tell me Burrow has 1 TD, the Bengals were 1-3 in the redzone with no rushing TDs and 7 sacks while Stafford has 3 passing TDs and figure the Rams would have won by 17+.

Just flipping the stats to show can go either way.

[traderumor]

One thing I despised in reading comments of losing fans during the playoff run was giving no credit to the Bengals. Especially the Chiefs fans, who gave no credit to the Bengals D and blamed it all on Mahomes and the offense.

Last night, the Rams pass rush was handled, made an adjustment that opened a spigot in the line, and we were not able to counter move, which was essentially the winning strategy for the Rams as they held our offense until they could put together a drive, literally their last chance. With some favorable calls at opportune times, they pulled it out.

That is as objective as I can get. On to the offseason.

[oregonred]

I am wondering how Burrow's knee is doing. He will get it evaluated when he gets back to Cincinnati. It sure seemed to bend funny there, and he seemed like he was in a lot of pain.

They REALLY need to fix the offensive line.

They had a Bengals after party with Kid Cudi at Pauley Pavilion and Joe seemed ok. So thatvsounds promising.

[Reds Freak]

Thinking same thing.

But on the flip side. Tell me Burrow has 1 TD, the Bengals were 1-3 in the redzone with no rushing TDs and 7 sacks while Stafford has 3 passing TDs and figure the Rams would have won by 17+.

Just flipping the stats to show can go either way.

Ha, good point.

[KoryMac5]

Thinking same thing.

But on the flip side. Tell me Burrow has 1 TD, the Bengals were 1-3 in the redzone with no rushing TDs and 7 sacks while Stafford has 3 passing TDs and figure the Rams would have won by 17+.

Just flipping the stats to show can go either way.

I was amazed we were hanging in as well as we were..Rams had a 41 percent pressure rate which is insane…shows the resilience that Burrow and the team has to keep it close. Thought we had a good chance to steal one…but the football gods thought otherwise.

If you fix the line the redszone should open up…I would think we have a nice window.

[UKFlounder]

They’ll get it done before Zac’s debut 2019 season.

I mean before Burrow’s 2020 debut. Got to protect him.

Uh, year three is the charm. After Burrow’s injury, they’ll address it prior to 2021.

Or, maybe, uhm, uh…




They REALLY need to fix the offensive line.

[GAC]

Perine not getting it on 3rd down reminded me of the consecutive weird calls by the Titans late where the Bengals stuffed them on 3rd and 4th down.

I said the same thing to my buddy when that play occured. Strange.

[Rdirtypirates]

I agree. It was PI. He had both hands on his waist with the ball in the air. The refs gave the Bengals a gift by not putting the ball at the one yard line where the foul occurred. They called the lesser of the two fouls committed in the play.

What about the blatant false start? So, how is that a gift? It seems to me they didn't call the most important penalty because the play should of been whistled dead. If you think that was pi I don't know what to say. Pretty ridiculous if you ask me.
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/replay-appears-show-critical-missed-052037463.html

[RedTeamGo!]

They’ll get it done before Zac’s debut 2019 season.

I mean before Burrow’s 2020 debut. Got to protect him.

Uh, year three is the charm. After Burrow’s injury, they’ll address it prior to 2021.

Or, maybe, uhm, uh…

Bro, they were a few plays away from winning the super bowl. You are acting like they went 5-12 this year

[UKFlounder]

Maybe they are addressing the o-line with extra coaching help?

https://footballscoop.com/news/nfl-super-bowl-cincinnati-bengals-adding-derek-frazier

[KoryMac5]

Maybe they are addressing the o-line with extra coaching help?

https://footballscoop.com/news/nfl-super-bowl-cincinnati-bengals-adding-derek-frazier

Probably worked with Pollack in NY…

FA is a month away be interesting to see what they do….and who visits.

[KoryMac5]

Bro, they were a few plays away from winning the super bowl. You are acting like they went 5-12 this year

100 percent We always talk draft in October it was nice for a change to have this much fun during the season. Sucks to lose I got zero sleep last night. But we will be back.

[traderumor]

I do not understand why anyone wants to live in the misery of chronic complaining, especially just hours after an unlikely Super Bowl run with an imperfect team that nearly pulled off an upset against an all-in team that was supposed to trounce the league.

[Todd Gack]

I do not understand why anyone wants to live in the misery of chronic complaining, especially just hours after an unlikely Super Bowl run with an imperfect team that nearly pulled off an upset against an all-in team that was supposed to trounce the league.

It's just the timing. It's emotional. I already feel better about things. I'm just annoyed at people who think we'll automatically get back there like it's a given. I think WonderfulMonds had a post expressing my exact feelings: It's really hard to get back here. Just a frustrating loss because we should've won that game.

[Betterread]

What about the blatant false start? So, how is that a gift? It seems to me they didn't call the most important penalty because the play should of been whistled dead. If you think that was pi I don't know what to say. Pretty ridiculous if you ask me.
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/replay-appears-show-critical-missed-052037463.html

I agree that the Rams Oline beat the snap and it should have been a false start. Wilson can’t cover Kupp in the slot without holding him. That was an intentional matchup Rams exploited. Instead of blaming the refs, why don’t you blame your OC for not using Chase more in the slot in a similar matchup with a LB to get him more touches.

[KoryMac5]

It's just the timing. It's emotional. I already feel better about things. I'm just annoyed at people who think we'll automatically get back there like it's a given. I think WonderfulMonds had a post expressing my exact feelings: It's really hard to get back here. Just a frustrating loss because we should've won that game.

Rams were the better team but I thought we could have stolen one from them as we kept it close. I feel like they can get back just due to being ahead of schedule. I mean none of us saw this coming so why can’t they get better which gives you a nice window of 2 to 5 years. Teams with franchise QBs have a better chance at things bouncing there way than those that don’t.

[Rojo Rijo]

Both tackles moved early and the call on Wilson was horrible based on the nature of how the game had been called. Absolutely unforgiveable in that circumstance.

[kaldaniels]

The refs missed a call and allowed Cincinnati a 75 yard touchdown which was Burrow’s only TD of the night.

The refs missed a false start and threw a questionable flag that gave the Rams an extra set of downs which led to 7 points.

All in all at worst I see the refs giving each team 7 points last night, which evens out to me. Maybe they missed “more” that favored the Rams but they gave the Bengals a whopping 75 yards on one non-call. That was a titanic miss.

[Roy Tucker]

Last night, the Rams pass rush was handled, made an adjustment that opened a spigot in the line, and we were not able to counter move, which was essentially the winning strategy for the Rams as they held our offense until they could put together a drive, literally their last chance. With some favorable calls at opportune times, they pulled it out.

That is as objective as I can get. On to the offseason.

This my take too. The Bengals coaches knew their OL was in for a time of it if they played their standard blocking schemes. So the Bengals changed it up and and it worked pretty well for a while. But once the Rams figured it out, the Bengals had no counter move or at least any that would work. It was open season on Burrow then and the first time this year I saw fear in his eyes.

And yeah, the 3rd and goal holding call on Wilson was bogus but like others mentioned, they also missed to offensive PI call on the Bengals long TD. It’s too bad the refs decided at that time to insert themselves into the process. Made the result seem contrived (and I’ll leave it at that). And watching replays of the winning TD drive, the Bengals DBs were absolutely mugging Cooper Krupp. His winning TD catch was a real warrior play. Hats off to him.

Get some OL hogs. Lots of them.

[Roy Tucker]

Oh, and I thought the announcing sucked. NBC desperately needs some fresh blood. Al and Chris have done too many games and are going through the motions.

[Rdirtypirates]

I agree that the Rams Oline beat the snap and it should have been a false start. Wilson can’t cover Kupp in the slot without holding him. That was an intentional matchup Rams exploited. Instead of blaming the refs, why don’t you blame your OC for not using Chase more in the slot in a similar matchup with a LB to get him more touches.

Did I blame the referees? I responded to your asinine assessment of a play that clearly was a false start. Just because YOU THINK Wilson can't cover him doesn't make it holding. Watch the actual play. If you don't think the officiating was garbage you must of watched a different game. There offensive line lost the game, but the officiating was atrocious. The loss hurt, but at least they made it here. That is more than I can say for thirty teams I am guessing yours included. Who dey!

[Rdirtypirates]

The refs missed a call and allowed Cincinnati a 75 yard touchdown which was Burrow’s only TD of the night.

The refs missed a false start and threw a questionable flag that gave the Rams an extra set of downs which led to 7 points.

All in all at worst I see the refs giving each team 7 points last night, which evens out to me. Maybe they missed “more” that favored the Rams but they gave the Bengals a whopping 75 yards on one non-call. That was a titanic miss.

What about Ramsey grabbing Higgins? That shows how bad the officiating is when you try to say calls even out. That is garbage. Refs shouldn't factor into the game, and they clearly did.

[Rojo Rijo]

The refs missed a call and allowed Cincinnati a 75 yard touchdown which was Burrow’s only TD of the night.

The refs missed a false start and threw a questionable flag that gave the Rams an extra set of downs which led to 7 points.

All in all at worst I see the refs giving each team 7 points last night, which evens out to me. Maybe they missed “more” that favored the Rams but they gave the Bengals a whopping 75 yards on one non-call. That was a titanic miss.

I agree that the no call on Higgins was bad but Ramsey clearly held Higgins on the 3rd and 10 from the 11 in the first Q so I dont see it as even in that sense. My bigger issue with the Wilson call was when it was made and the circumstances. That call was massive.

[traderumor]

I just can't dog the officiating. Football officiating is bad because it is a very, very difficult gig with dozens of judgment calls a game, an ever increasing minutiae of rules to deal with, and multiple cameras at every game showing replays of calls not in their view. It is frustrating, but all leagues have put a massive burden on officials, and then with replay at the college and pro levels, you just have a massive interference of game play with rules that no human can manage perfectly.

[kaldaniels]

I just can't dog the officiating. Football officiating is bad because it is a very, very difficult gig with dozens of judgment calls a game, an ever increasing minutiae of rules to deal with, and multiple cameras at every game showing replays of calls not in their view. It is frustrating, but all leagues have put a massive burden on officials, and then with replay at the college and pro levels, you just have a massive interference of game play with rules that no human can manage perfectly.

Yep. That holding call on Wilson “looked” like holding in real-time. Cupp beat Wilson out of his break. Wilson had his hands on Cupp. It seems the ball was thrown behind Cupp so he slowed down but it had the appearance of him almost being tackled. That play looks much different in slow-motion than it did in real-time.

It absolutely stinks but it’s just one of those things. With the help of slow motion of course everyone (myself included) can say it wasn’t worthy of a flag. But I don’t extend that to say it was a “garbage” call where I question the competency of the ref.

Make penalties reviewable? I’d be fine with that.

[The Operator]

I agree that the no call on Higgins was bad but Ramsey clearly held Higgins on the 3rd and 10 from the 11 in the first Q so I dont see it as even in that sense. My bigger issue with the Wilson call was when it was made and the circumstances. That call was massive.

Yea, the timing is everything. Blown call early in the 3rd quarter leading to a TD with tons of time left and blown call that basically led to a TD with the game winding down to a close are not equal. Combine that with the fact that The Rams should have been called for a false start and moved back 5 yards just adds insult to injury.


At the end of the day, The Bengals should have been up by 2 scores. If the o-line could have played like anything other than the worst unit in the league and maybe if Boyd doesn’t make an uncharacteristic drop in a crucial moment we might be a having a different conversation.

It’s just all really hard to swallow.

[membengal]

Yeah I thought about that. Idk, it just seems messed up that they basically held their flags all game, and then after the 2 minute warning they call a metric ****ton of penalties.

If they had just called the game consistently it would’ve been one thing. Like…..either let them play or don’t, but you can’t suddenly pull a flag parade out of your ass from nowhere when the game is on the line.

This.

This is what kept me up (I fell asleep at 5:30 am lol- got two hours of sleep and then back up for work).

Ramsey held Tee on our first red zone trip - not called. Fine.

Tee rakes Ramsey's facemask to free up on his TD. Fine.

Physical contact ALL DAY from both teams on the outside and over the middle - not called. FINE.

That's all fine because that's the approach that crew took. The teams adjusted and played accordingly.

And then...THAT CALL? THERE? WHEN WILSON DIDN'T EVEN HOLD?

That's what kept me up. That when the game was on the line, the officials changed their approach. That just sucks so hard.

[Reds Freak]

Yep. That holding call on Wilson “looked” like holding in real-time. Cupp beat Wilson out of his break. Wilson had his hands on Cupp. It seems the ball was thrown behind Cupp so he slowed down but it had the appearance of him almost being tackled. That play looks much different in slow-motion than it did in real-time.

It absolutely stinks but it’s just one of those things. With the help of slow motion of course everyone (myself included) can say it wasn’t worthy of a flag. But I don’t extend that to say it was a “garbage” call where I question the competency of the ref.

Make penalties reviewable? I’d be fine with that.

I agree with all of this except for your last sentence. For the most part, I hate how replay disrupts the flow of the game across all sports. I'd prefer to keep reviews to the absolute minimum.

While we're talking about calls though, I've seen some photos today that showed the Rams lined up offside on the final 4th-and-1 play.

[kaldaniels]

I agree with all of this except for your last sentence. For the most part, I hate how replay disrupts the flow of the game across all sports. I'd prefer to keep reviews to the absolute minimum.

While we're talking about calls though, I've seen some photos today that showed the Rams lined up offside on the final 4th-and-1 play.

I wouldn’t want to open a bag of worms by allowing the challenge flag thrown on penalties so I’d still just allow two challenges a game by the coaches (keep the current rules). Would it lead to more challenges? Sure but a call like the one on Wilson - I’m fine with taking a look at at. Where it may get sticky is allowing a “non-call” to be challenged.

[Mitri]

This.

This is what kept me up (I fell asleep at 5:30 am lol- got two hours of sleep and then back up for work).

Ramsey held Tee on our first red zone trip - not called. Fine.

Tee rakes Ramsey's facemask to free up on his TD. Fine.

Physical contact ALL DAY from both teams on the outside and over the middle - not called. FINE.

That's all fine because that's the approach that crew took. The teams adjusted and played accordingly.

And then...THAT CALL? THERE? WHEN WILSON DIDN'T EVEN HOLD?

That's what kept me up. That when the game was on the line, the officials changed their approach. That just sucks so hard.

I agree with this but the bottom line is the Bengals had multiple opportunities to put it out of reach in the 2nd half, including the final possession with plenty of time to get it in the endzone or at least within FG range. Credit to the Rams defense for tightening up and just outplaying the Bengals. I do think Taylor was a bit outmaneuvered in the 4th Q too.

[membengal]

Both teams wasted chances. Both teams had chances. In the end, the Rams were better. I am fine with all that.

I do reserve the right to be salty over the refs CHANGING HOW THEY HAD BEEN CALLING THINGS ALL GAME in the last two minutes. That part sucked.

[dubc47834]

I agree with this but the bottom line is the Bengals had multiple opportunities to put it out of reach in the 2nd half, including the final possession with plenty of time to get it in the endzone or at least within FG range. Credit to the Rams defense for tightening up and just outplaying the Bengals. I do think Taylor was a bit outmaneuvered in the 4th Q too.

Agreed on the Bengals having plenty of time. Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees...they at least go down and get you in FG range. If not a TD. Definitely some shaky refereeing going on, but it happened all game. When you look at how it affected the score board, it was even.

[RedTeamGo!]

I agree with this but the bottom line is the Bengals had multiple opportunities to put it out of reach in the 2nd half, including the final possession with plenty of time to get it in the endzone or at least within FG range. Credit to the Rams defense for tightening up and just outplaying the Bengals. I do think Taylor was a bit outmaneuvered in the 4th Q too.

This is where I am at as well. The bengals had the ball with 1:30 to play and had to get about 40 yards to tie it. No excuses IMHO.

[Sea Ray]

Agreed on the Bengals having plenty of time. Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees...they at least go down and get you in FG range. If not a TD. Definitely some shaky refereeing going on, but it happened all game. When you look at how it affected the score board, it was even.

No, they don't do that behind this offensive line vs that defensive line

[traderumor]

I agree with all of this except for your last sentence. For the most part, I hate how replay disrupts the flow of the game across all sports. I'd prefer to keep reviews to the absolute minimum.

While we're talking about calls though, I've seen some photos today that showed the Rams lined up offside on the final 4th-and-1 play.

Yea, Donald, who got the pressure, was clearly lined up in the neutral zone on that play. Funny official had the guts to call the holding considering the situation, but not the false start and offsides.

[Bob Sheed]

Just about every game, I am shrugging off the the fact that the refs had an active role in determining the outcome. Or more accurately, the spread.

At some point, these manipulations were no longer outliers. Which, of course, is why the NFL is classified as Sports Entertainment.

This is why we are so lucky the Bengals have Joe Burrow. Because now they have a marketable narrative that includes winning. Up until Joe Burrow, even with Marvin Lewis, the Bengals were always the Washington Generals. "How will they blow it, this time?" was their narrative.

That being said, if the Bengals Front Office screws around and permanently damages Burrow to the point of ineffectiveness, that Generals narrative will be back in place faster than you can say Carson Palmer. Burrow is the only thing standing between the Bengals and the Bungles.

When they called holding on Wilson in the last two minutes there, after letting both teams defend aggressively the entire game up to that point, I knew the winning narrative was "Whitworth gets his ring, and will Aaron Donald retire?!?!" Anymore, predicting the outcome of NFL games seems like solving the plot of a dime-store murder mystery novel, as opposed to any actual strategy diagnosis.

The Bengals lost by 3, but they did cover the spread (4). I have serious doubts that was an accident. The NFL looks more and more like the Truman Show every season. But it is entertaining, they do have that going for them. I hear WWF is pretty entertaining too.

It's obviously not scripted. But it does seem manipulated.

What I wonder is, if a smoking gun type evidence was leaked, that did show deliberate manipulation, obviously the NFL can't be sued for it, but would fans turn away?

[KoryMac5]

This is where I am at as well. The bengals had the ball with 1:30 to play and had to get about 40 yards to tie it. No excuses IMHO.

Yep 2 shots to get 1 yard tough to swallow as Chase was open on the 4th down play…just 1 more second of protection.

[cumberlandreds]

Oh, and I thought the announcing sucked. NBC desperately needs some fresh blood. Al and Chris have done too many games and are going through the motions.

I read an article that was speculating that this was Michaels last game. He started the broadcast by saying "for the last time". Maybe he meant this season? They didn't know. But Michaels is 77 and he could be ready to hang it up. The article did say there was speculation he was going to Prime to do Thursday night games next season and a possibility he could go back to ESPN to do MNF. Michaels must not like doing baseball because a lot these guys kinda slide into permanent retirement by doing a few seasons of baseball such Dick Enberg did for the Padres.

[oregonred]

Ramsey clearly interfered with Chase on his long catch. No flag. Took a miracle 1 handed catch by Chase and without being mugged by JRam he probably walks into the endzone at 7-7 without the no call JRam PI instead if settling for FG.

They weren't calling PI or holding all night and the Wilson 3rd and 8 flag with 1min left and the Rams false starting was essentially a game decider.

This is crazy. All Divisonal games, the Conf Champ games and LVI literally came down to 1-2 plays that could have flipped each and every single game to the losing side. We'll never see that run of the final seven playoff games again. An Off the charts bonkers postseason.

Interesting on the Asst Oline hire. Let's hope they can identify some guys that want to protect Joey Franchise.

[Cyclone792]

I haven't read any of the posts going back to the last 18 hours, but I'll just say this:

The Bengals offensive line has been a problem for years, it was a problem again this year, and it was a problem again during the playoffs. And it was the offensive line that lost that game last night.

The Bengals last six possessions went like this:

1) Great field position after the INT. Two sacks on the drive, including a sack on third down which forced a FG.
2) 3 and out with a punt, including a sack on second down.
3) 3 and out with a punt, including two sacks (first and second down).
4) One first down, then a sack on third down on the second set of downs to force a punt.
5) One first down, then a punt (the drive with the Boyd drop). I haven't gone back to review how much pressure Burrow got on this drive, but I'm sure he was hurried even though he was never sacked.
6) We know what happened on fourth down. While technically not a sack, it was a massive hurry that blew the play up and ended the game.

We can point to the refs suddenly getting whistle happy at the end as a problem, and we can point to the Boyd drop that hurt. All legit. But in my mind the offensive line lost the game. If they had provided good protection for Burrow then those other items would have been far less important.

My biggest fear going back to Sunday night two weeks ago was how in the world would the Bengals offensive line hold up against the Rams. They didn't. And it cost us a Super Bowl.

I've watched a lot of football. Tom Brady is the GOAT, but even he got beat up badly from time to time. And most of the big games he lost were due to his opponents getting heavy pressure on him. Even the best QBs become meh when they deal with heavy pressure. My hat tip to Burrow because I thought he played about as well as he could given the circumstances with the line. He still almost led us to a win despite the line.

[KoryMac5]

I haven't read any of the posts going back to the last 18 hours, but I'll just say this:

The Bengals offensive line has been a problem for years, it was a problem again this year, and it was a problem again during the playoffs. And it was the offensive line that lost that game last night.

The Bengals last six possessions went like this:

1) Great field position after the INT. Two sacks on the drive, including a sack on third down which forced a FG.
2) 3 and out with a punt, including a sack on second down.
3) 3 and out with a punt, including two sacks (first and second down).
4) One first down, then a sack on third down on the second set of downs to force a punt.
5) One first down, then a punt (the drive with the Boyd drop). I haven't gone back to review how much pressure Burrow got on this drive, but I'm sure he was hurried even though he was never sacked.
6) We know what happened on fourth down. While technically not a sack, it was a massive hurry that blew the play up and ended the game.

We can point to the refs suddenly getting whistle happy at the end as a problem, and we can point to the Boyd drop that hurt. All legit. But in my mind the offensive line lost the game. If they had provided good protection for Burrow then those other items would have been far less important.

My biggest fear going back to Sunday night two weeks ago was how in the world would the Bengals offensive line hold up against the Rams. They didn't. And it cost us a Super Bowl.

I've watched a lot of football. Tom Brady is the GOAT, but even he got beat up badly from time to time. And most of the big games he lost were due to his opponents getting heavy pressure on him. Even the best QBs become meh when they deal with heavy pressure. My hat tip to Burrow because I thought he played about as well as he could given the circumstances with the line. He still almost led us to a win despite the line.

Agreed Burrow took a beating...I felt bad he apologized to the fans on twitter after the game...

Dude plays his arse off...never complains hit after hit...

Get some roadgraders...and you will start a playoff run for the next 5 years.

Deep FA class for lineman.

[RiverRat13]

Kupp was great but Donald was the MVP. If you take Kupp off the Rams the Bengals probably win. If you take Donald off, the Bengals win by a couple of touchdowns, IMO.

[dubc47834]

No, they don't do that behind this offensive line vs that defensive line

I disagree. This is just looking up one of those guys, Tom Brady. He finished as the 2nd most sacked QB of all time. You can say that's due to longevity, OK. He had 5 seasons where he was in the top 10 in being sacked the most, 2001, 2003, 2013, 2015, and 2017. In 2001 & 2003 he won the Super Bowl and in 2017 played in the SB and lost. I absolutely believe those 3 QB's and add in Aaron Rogers, goes down and gets you in at least FG range...they've done it time and again. The Bengals had their chances and were out coached.

The most losses he had in any of those seasons...4

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Brady

[oregonred]

The 2nd and 1 throw away and Zac headscratching run with Perine on 3rd and 1 took the ball out of Joey's hands.

Where were the screens and Chase/Boyd end arounds.. the Niners killed them all year on some of those plays.

[RiverRat13]

Other than health, how were the Bengals lucky?

Health is huge and can't be overstated. Especially with how many injuries the Ravens and to a lesser extent the Browns had this year compared to the Bengals.

They won three consecutive one score games (then lost the fourth). Always a bit of luck in one score outcomes.

They got a terrific draw. There are three other QBs on or above Burrow's level in the AFC - Mahomes, Allen, and Herbert. The Bengals only had to beat one of them. There will be years where they will have to beat two and maybe all three to get back to the Super Bowl.

None of that takes away what the Bengals did this year. Like WM said, there's almost always luck/variance that goes your way during a playoff run. The Steelers got lucky in '05 when Carson got Kimo'd. The Broncos got lucky in '15 when Dalton broke his thumb (Denver doesn't win that title without homefield advantage, which they got by barely beating AJ McCarron).

[RiverRat13]

The 2nd and 1 throw away and Zac headscratching run with Perine on 3rd and 1 took the ball out of Joey's hands.

Where were the screens and Chase/Boyd end arounds.. the Niners killed them all year on some of those plays.

A jet sweep left when the Rams were stacking the offense's right side would have made some sense.

[traderumor]

Kupp was great but Donald was the MVP. If you take Kupp off the Rams the Bengals probably win. If you take Donald off, the Bengals win by a couple of touchdowns, IMO.

Kupp really only showed up that last drive. Not sure what they did differently, but they did something because he was handled until then. Donald,Miller and 50 killed us the second half and were the difference in the game.

[oregonred]

Health is huge and can't be overstated. Especially with how many injuries the Ravens and to a lesser extent the Browns had this year compared to the Bengals.

They won three consecutive one score games (then lost the fourth). Always a bit of luck in one score outcomes.

They got a terrific draw. There are three other QBs on or above Burrow's level in the AFC - Mahomes, Allen, and Herbert. The Bengals only had to beat one of them. There will be years where they will have to beat two and maybe all three to get back to the Super Bowl.

None of that takes away what the Bengals did this year. Like WM said, there's almost always luck/variance that goes your way during a playoff run. The Steelers got lucky in '05 when Carson got Kimo'd. The Broncos got lucky in '15 when Dalton broke his thumb (Denver doesn't win that title without homefield advantage, which they got by barely beating AJ McCarron).

I would counter and say the Bengals overcame some major injuries themselves.


Joey Franchise coming off major ACL/MCL surgery wasn't fully mobile until about week 10
Losing promising rookie rusher Ossai in the preseason for the year
The entire right side of the line was a complete mess with XSF out all year, Carman's back injuries and Reiff missing the last 11 games. Reiff was a killer loss.
They also missed #1/#2 CB Waynes relying on Eli Apple playing as a starter all year
Losing Larry O in the Raiders game for the rest of the playoffs and being razor thin on the DLine against Tenn, KC and the Rams. They literally picked up Zack Kerr from the Cards practice squad after the Wild Card round and Square from the Raiders as emergency stopgaps
Trey Hopkins coming off ACL (inexcusable not to backfill with an Interior OL given this situation alone)

Other than CEH, the Chiefs were major bigtime healthy across the board. I believe the Bills were too but I didn't follow them as close. The Bucs had all 11 planned defensive starters back for the playoffs.

[oregonred]

https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2022/2/13/22932502/refs-super-bowl-lvi-rams-vs-bengals-final-two-minutes-reaction-twitter

"The refs stole the show in the final minutes of Super Bowl LVI for Rams-Bengals"