Cincinnati Bengals 2022 Part 2

[WVRed]

Title says it all.

[Sea Ray]

Title says it all.

Things aren't that bad. We're tied for 1st place. According to tie breakers, we're in 1st

[oregonred]

Not understanding the thread title as things are looking much better now than 8 days ago.

Only three teams in the AFC with more wins after the first month

[Ohayou]

I nominate a new thread title: "Cincinnati Bengals 2022 Part 2: Whose Division Is It Anyway?"

[Oxilon]

Yes I would.

Would the Bears offer a top 10 pick for Tee? Probably not.

I would then take Peter Skoronski and Jahmyr Gibbs and call it a draft.

^Quoted from previous thread. So you still trust the Bengals when it comes to drafting offensive lineman?

[GAC]

IMO, the only team that will contending with the Bengals for the division title this year will be Baltimore.

[WrongVerb]

I nominate a new thread title: "Cincinnati Bengals 2022 Part 2: Whose Division Is It Anyway?"

I nominate a new thread title: "Cincinnati Bengals 2022 Part 2: Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?"

[Hillsdale87]

To go back to the previous thread's discussion on Tee... The Eagles just traded a 1st round pick for AJ Brown, and the Cardinals traded a 1st round pick for Hollywood Brown. Higgins is significantly more valuable than Hollywood, and probably pretty similar to AJ Brown, especially when you factor in injury history. So yes, I think somebody would trade a 1st for Tee, but I don't think the Bengals would consider it. Tee isn't Chase, but he's a top WR in the NFL. PFF had him as the #9 rated WR in 2021, and that was fighting through injury. The last 6 games when he was healthy he was top 5. I feel like the discussion about whether somebody is a #1 WR is similar to the debate about whether somebody is a #1 starting pitcher, but either way Tee would be the best WR on at least half of NFL teams.

[Kingspoint]

Things aren't that bad. We're tied for 1st place. According to tie breakers, we're in 1st

Stupid thread title, and screw you for whoever came up with it.

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Title says it all.

Title says more about you than it does about the 2022 Bengals.

[Boss-Hog]

I updated the thread title to remove the editorializing, for lack of a better word, and typo.

[Todd Gack]

To go back to the previous thread's discussion on Tee... The Eagles just traded a 1st round pick for AJ Brown, and the Cardinals traded a 1st round pick for Hollywood Brown. Higgins is significantly more valuable than Hollywood, and probably pretty similar to AJ Brown, especially when you factor in injury history. So yes, I think somebody would trade a 1st for Tee, but I don't think the Bengals would consider it. Tee isn't Chase, but he's a top WR in the NFL. PFF had him as the #9 rated WR in 2021, and that was fighting through injury. The last 6 games when he was healthy he was top 5. I feel like the discussion about whether somebody is a #1 WR is similar to the debate about whether somebody is a #1 starting pitcher, but either way Tee would be the best WR on at least half of NFL teams.

Who were the other recievers/TE on the Titans? Higgins is lucky he's in Cincinnati. He has 2 other receivers and a Top 5ish QB here. He's not going to find that anywhere else. He's not a #1. He'd struggle in Chicago or anywhere else where they don't have any other good receiving options/QB.

[Betterread]

To go back to the previous thread's discussion on Tee... The Eagles just traded a 1st round pick for AJ Brown, and the Cardinals traded a 1st round pick for Hollywood Brown. Higgins is significantly more valuable than Hollywood, and probably pretty similar to AJ Brown, especially when you factor in injury history. So yes, I think somebody would trade a 1st for Tee, but I don't think the Bengals would consider it. Tee isn't Chase, but he's a top WR in the NFL. PFF had him as the #9 rated WR in 2021, and that was fighting through injury. The last 6 games when he was healthy he was top 5. I feel like the discussion about whether somebody is a #1 WR is similar to the debate about whether somebody is a #1 starting pitcher, but either way Tee would be the best WR on at least half of NFL teams.

Is this a bengals thing? To overrate your receivers to a pathetic degree? I remember everybody in this board said ocho cinquo was better than Randy Moss. Still think that way?
Well, now you have a stud. Chase. He has a chance to be great. And all this board talks about is Higgins. If Chase doesn’t become as good as Moss or Rice, it’s on you Cinci. And right now, in 2022 you are not using him to the best of his abilities.

[Redsfaithful]

Tee Higgins is a top 10 WR, it's kinda weird to get aggro about that just because the Bengals also have a top 3 guy.

[Betterread]

Tee Higgins is a top 10 WR, it's kinda weird to get aggro about that just because the Bengals also have a top 3 guy.

Arguably top ten. If I squint, he looks kind like he kind of belongs to a group of second tier guys. But For receiving yards, he was 17th in 2021, and 11th on 2022.

Chase drops too many balls to be top 3. He’s close, but he has to get open more and drop less. And he’s 13th in yards in 2022, so he not close this year. Even though his team is to blame. The production is not there this year.

[WVRed]

^Quoted from previous thread. So you still trust the Bengals when it comes to drafting offensive lineman?

Skoronski is being projected as the top OT in the draft. If the Bengals are wrong then a lot of other teams will be as well. Only thing that concerns me is with his size and build he looks like who he would be replacing.

I trust Tobin to draft an offensive lineman just not when Paul Alexander has any say in it. They hit on Volson, whiffed on Carman who was an Alexander pick.

Problem with the trade though as I said in the previous thread is the Bears will probably be picking in the top 10. Most of the time when WRs or players are traded for draft picks it’s mid to late round.

[Bob Sheed]

Seems like the Bengals just lost their first two preseason games disguised as regular season games, and then won the next two games.

They are definitely trending upwards, that much is certain.

[RedTeamGo!]

It’s funny how quickly NFL narrative change. 2 weeks ago people were already writing the bengals off and were saying “this Brissett guy is pretty good, browns looking good!” Now bengals are clearly going to win the division and the browns are the browns.

[membengal]

Is this a bengals thing? To overrate your receivers to a pathetic degree? I remember everybody in this board said ocho cinquo was better than Randy Moss. Still think that way?
Well, now you have a stud. Chase. He has a chance to be great. And all this board talks about is Higgins. If Chase doesn’t become as good as Moss or Rice, it’s on you Cinci. And right now, in 2022 you are not using him to the best of his abilities.

I dub this post weird. YTD Higgins has 315 yards receiving and Chase 293. Those are the two most in the division. And that's the before the passing game has really gotten untracked. They are both tracking to around 1300+ yards. Bengals have two #1 receivers. Right now teams are rolling coverage to Chase - HARD. That means Higgins is gonna eat. Teams will have to balance that soon - and then Chase will eat. Even as it is, they are both eating.

[WVRed]

It’s funny how quickly NFL narrative change. 2 weeks ago people were already writing the bengals off and were saying “this Brissett guy is pretty good, browns looking good!” Now bengals are clearly going to win the division and the browns are the browns.

Honestly the division is in flux right now.

By all rights Burrow “should” go into Baltimore next week with a mini bye and shred the Ravens pass defense.

If I’m a Browns fan I’d be worried about how Watson is going to be when he does come back. New team, new system. Hasn’t played in a year and a half. A skill player would be more susceptible to injury but with a QB will he take off or have growing pains?

The Steelers loss to start the season looks bad considering the Jets just won there. But it’s Pittsburgh and they have their defense.

My gut feel is it comes down to week 17 in Cincinnati against Baltimore.

[Hillsdale87]

It's definitely been a weird start to the season for the AFC North. The Steelers are bad, but each of the other 3 teams have pretty good cases to be 4-0. The Bengals have 2 last second losses. The Ravens have blown leads of 21 and 17. The Browns lost a ridiculous game to the Jets and made some critical mistakes in the red zone in the loss to the Falcons.

I don't think we really have a good idea of who these teams are right now. The Browns are probably pretty limited with Brissett. But are the Ravens the team that got out to those big leads or the team that blows big leads? I'm still not sold on the Bengals. I could be convinced right now that they're a top 3 team in the AFC or that they'll miss the playoffs. The last two games have been better, but they still don't look completely in sync. Sunday will be a great measuring stick

[Kingspoint]

I dub this post weird. YTD Higgins has 315 yards receiving and Chase 293. Those are the two most in the division. And that's the before the passing game has really gotten untracked. They are both tracking to around 1300+ yards. Bengals have two #1 receivers. Right now teams are rolling coverage to Chase - HARD. That means Higgins is gonna eat. Teams will have to balance that soon - and then Chase will eat. Even as it is, they are both eating.

And, then just to remind peoplel that it isn't just Higgins and Chase, the Bengals went back-to-back-to-back with big plays centered around Boyd (with Chase the recipient of the 1st one). Hurst has been dynamic.

This Offense has five great options, including Mixon. Teams are trying to force Mixon to beat them with their Defensive schemes, but the combination of Mixon, Boyd, Hurst, Higgins and Chase cannot be stopped. No interceptions for Burrow the last three games. The O-Line is slowly improving. The loss of Reader on Defense puts more pressure on the Offense to perform, but the Offense can't be stopped and all five players will have great numbers by season's end when they get their opportunities as coverage goes away from them.

[Kingspoint]

But are the Ravens the team that got out to those big leads or the team that blows big leads? They are obviously both. The game is 48 minutes, and their Secondary is horrible enough that at some point, more likely the 4th Quarter, it's going to get abused. The Ravens' Offense is loaded (they've hardly used Mark Andrews so far), so they are going to put up 30+ points every game.

[Kingspoint]

With this "mini-bye", the Offense of the Bengals is going to take off, while the Defense will be able to come up with a plan to offset the loss of Reader. Bates is going to become a menace now that his pre-season is over.

Bengals are more likely to go on a long run of 30+ points per game. Should go 3-1 over their next four and hit the half-way mark at 5-3 and a tie for 1st in the Division, while not being more than 1 game out of the #1 seed in the AFC.

[Todd Gack]

I dub this post weird. YTD Higgins has 315 yards receiving and Chase 293. Those are the two most in the division. And that's the before the passing game has really gotten untracked. They are both tracking to around 1300+ yards. Bengals have two #1 receivers. Right now teams are rolling coverage to Chase - HARD. That means Higgins is gonna eat. Teams will have to balance that soon - and then Chase will eat. Even as it is, they are both eating.

So you would pay both Chase/Higgins the same contract?

[Tony Cloninger]

They let a real #2 walk along with a good 3 in Jones and Sanu. They can try to get Burrow. Chase. Higgins. Wilson. Hinton. AZ. Bell. In a room and tell them you. Am be something special. Let’s sign all of you to fair but cap friendly deals so we can keep bringing in more OL and break Super Bowl records. Only thing that worries me is Reader being out and how well his legs hold out now that he’s suffered another leg injury. I really need either the Bengals or Reds to go on some 5-10 year dominant run. And the Reds don’t look like it any time soon.

[WVRed]

They are obviously both. The game is 48 minutes, and their Secondary is horrible enough that at some point, more likely the 4th Quarter, it's going to get abused. The Ravens' Offense is loaded (they've hardly used Mark Andrews so far), so they are going to put up 30+ points every game.

They’ve hardly used Mark Andrews because he’s been double covered. Since there are no receivers for Jackson to throw to it means he either has to force it or create with his legs. If Lou puts two linebackers on him to spy it’ll likely shut him down.

[Hillsdale87]

So you would pay both Chase/Higgins the same contract?

I don't think anybody is arguing that they should be paid the same. Chase is better for sure. But they should be able to figure out how to pay both. Salary cap is going to continue to go up


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[Oxilon]

I don't think anybody is arguing that they should be paid the same. Chase is better for sure. But they should be able to figure out how to pay both. Salary cap is going to continue to go up


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I keep hearing that, but that’s not going to make a difference since the (a) the salary floor will also go up and (b) player’s salaries will also increase.

[Hillsdale87]

I'm not sure what all we're able to share from that Athletic, so I won't post the chart from Dehner's article today, but below are Mixon's advanced rushing stats out of 35 qualifying RBs. It's pretty bleak

Rushing yards over expected: 34
PFF Run Grade: 35
PFF Elusive Rating: 35
Rushing EPA: 35
First Down/Rush: 34
10+ Yard Runs: 31

[Sea Ray]

Bengals K Evan McPherson Named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week

https://www.si.com/nfl/bengals/news/evan-mcpherson-named-afc-special-teams-player-of-the-week#:~:text=CINCINNATI%20%E2%80%94%20Bengals%20ki cker%20Evan%20McPherson,lead%20in%20the%20fourth%2 0quarter.

[RiverRat13]

Baltimore should be favored largely because the running game is so bad for the Bengals. But this defense was built to contain Lamar. After Lamar utterly embarrassed them in every way possible in 2019, the Bengals made an effort over the next two offseasons to sign guys who could tackle and be disciplined in their assignments. If Lamar was playing like 2020 and 2021, I'd feel really good about Sunday. But he's elevated his game. The Bengals may have to get over 30 points for the first time this season to win. And they definitely can't afford to make this the week they pound the ball to "fix" the running game. Let Joe chuck it 40+ times.

[Kingspoint]

Christian McCaffery is available and the Panthers are willing to take on part of his 2023 salary to make a deal work. The contract: https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/carolina-panthers/christian-mccaffery-21749/

The acquisition of Marshall Faulk is what made "The Greatest Show on Turf" work. Bengals have all the pieces except for the Runningback.

What the Panthers want are something the Bengals' Mike Brown has never ever been willing to give up....draft picks, and it's going to take at least one 1st Rounder.

You have to trade Mixon away the same day to keep the peace in the lockerroom. But, what an upgrade!!!!

The rest of the AFC would be scared to death with Chase, Higgins, Boyd, Hurst and McCaffery, all getting throws from Burrow.

Get 'er done!

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I dub this post weird. YTD Higgins has 315 yards receiving and Chase 293. Those are the two most in the division. And that's the before the passing game has really gotten untracked. They are both tracking to around 1300+ yards. Bengals have two #1 receivers. Right now teams are rolling coverage to Chase - HARD. That means Higgins is gonna eat. Teams will have to balance that soon - and then Chase will eat. Even as it is, they are both eating.

There aren't five Receivers who have produced more than Higgins over their last 17 games. That's a 1A Receiver under any scenario. We not only have two 1's, but we have two 1A's.

[Kingspoint]

They’ve hardly used Mark Andrews because he’s been double covered. Since there are no receivers for Jackson to throw to it means he either has to force it or create with his legs. If Lou puts two linebackers on him to spy it’ll likely shut him down.

That's absolutely correct,...the same way we haven't used Chase. Bateman is currently injured. He'll play, but he's injured. Logan Wilson will be all over Andrews, but a Safety over the top is still necessary.

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So you would pay both Chase/Higgins the same contract?

They come up different years, so no.

[Redhook]

Christian McCaffery is available and the Panthers are willing to take on part of his 2023 salary to make a deal work. The contract: https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/carolina-panthers/christian-mccaffery-21749/

The acquisition of Marshall Faulk is what made "The Greatest Show on Turf" work. Bengals have all the pieces except for the Runningback.

What the Panthers want are something the Bengals' Mike Brown has never ever been willing to give up....draft picks, and it's going to take at least one 1st Rounder.

You have to trade Mixon away the same day to keep the peace in the lockerroom. But, what an upgrade!!!!

The rest of the AFC would be scared to death with Chase, Higgins, Boyd, Hurst and McCaffery, all getting throws from Burrow.

Get 'er done!



Hmmmm…..it’d be worth it even with his injury history. If he was healthy just one year/playoffs, they’d be impossible to stop.

[Larkin90]

Hmmmm…..it’d be worth it even with his injury history. If he was healthy just one year/playoffs, they’d be impossible to stop.

This is a trade that would take our offense to the next level. I’d rather they find someone younger and healthier (think Javonte Williams before he got injured last week), but there’s nobody else who is clearly available…

[WVRed]

I’m fine with offering a first round pick for CMC.

Anything beyond that I’m leery of. He’s not a QB and that is the only position worth surrendering multiple picks for and we have one of those.

With the Bengals past history I’d be afraid of turning into the LA Rams. The Rams are the 2000s Arizona Diamondbacks, a veteran laden team with no vision for the future. Id rather hold onto draft picks and spend them when necessary.

[Kingspoint]

And, we're talking about "the difference" between Mixon's and McCaffery's contracts, so it's not as bad as it sounds.

[Todd Gack]

Here's a good video of Chris SImms breaking down how terrible/vanilla of a playcaller Zac Taylor is. I have a feeling we're going to look back in like 5 years and realize just how mediocre of a coach Zac is and how we were just lucky to get to the SB last year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrOWjhkG5_Q

[Redhook]

Here's a good video of Chris SImms breaking down how terrible/vanilla of a playcaller Zac Taylor is. I have a feeling we're going to look back in like 5 years and realize just how mediocre of a coach Zac is and how we were just lucky to get to the SB last year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrOWjhkG5_Q

Can’t disagree with that. I grade Taylor with a solid D for the first 4 games. He was completely underprepared and outcoached the first 2 games. They won the next two, but it wasn’t great and still sloppy. His play calling, overall, has been terrible. That said, I hope and think he will improve. If not, it’s been a massive waste of some serious talent.

[KoryMac5]

I am fine with Taylor the coach...Taylor the OC not so much.

[RiverRat13]

I am fine with Taylor the coach...Taylor the OC not so much.

If Taylor the coach holds himself to a culture accountability that he says he holds the players, then Taylor the OC should be on borrowed time.

[Hillsdale87]

Taylor definitely needs to get it going on offense. I gave him a pass last year for some of the inconsistency because it's hard to scheme around a terrible OL. It clearly still has issues this year, but everything is too vanilla. Theyve had a couple of drives that look great, but then they don't sustain it. 27 the last 2 games looks good, but it still didn't look how it should. I think my perspective is also a bit warped from watching OSU every week...

It's strange because Taylor has an offensive background and is a good HC. Callahan is well thought of throughout the league. But they need to do better.


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[Fil3232]

Here's a good video of Chris SImms breaking down how terrible/vanilla of a playcaller Zac Taylor is. I have a feeling we're going to look back in like 5 years and realize just how mediocre of a coach Zac is and how we were just lucky to get to the SB last year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrOWjhkG5_Q

Kind of funny to watch that and as Chris is saying how the Bengals offense doesn’t work against a Defense like Miami, the score graphic sits at the bottom the whole time: “Bengals def Dolphins 27-15”

[WVRed]

Chargers hold off the Browns and the Steelers look like trash against Buffalo.

Gotta take care of business tonight.

[RedTeamGo!]

Browns find new ways to lose every week. It’s amazing. Been going on for decades. It honestly makes me think NFL = WWF wrestling at times.

[The Operator]

Browns find new ways to lose every week. It’s amazing. Been going on for decades. It honestly makes me think NFL = WWF wrestling at times.

I don’t think games are outright fixed or anything but I do think the NFL occasionally puts their finger on the scale with the help of the officials.

Even with replay, the officials make some of the most baffling calls at times and it always seems to help certain teams and go against other “lesser” teams.

I can’t tell you how many times over the years I’ve watched the Pittsburgh Steelers go into the final 2 minutes trailing by a touchdown or less and suddenly things that have been going on the entire game are now defensive holding, pass interference, etc.

It’s definitely there.

[WVRed]

I don’t think games are outright fixed or anything but I do think the NFL occasionally puts their finger on the scale with the help of the officials.

Even with replay, the officials make some of the most baffling calls at times and it always seems to help certain teams and go against other “lesser” teams.

I can’t tell you how many times over the years I’ve watched the Pittsburgh Steelers go into the final 2 minutes trailing by a touchdown or less and suddenly things that have been going on the entire game are now defensive holding, pass interference, etc.

It’s definitely there.

I thought it was fixed until the Bengals made the Super Bowl but everything you posted is pretty spot on.

Some teams and players get the calls but it’s far from rigged. Players choke, aka Patrick Mahomes last year in the AFC Championship game. Who do you think the NFL would have rather had in the Super Bowl? I’ll give you a hint, not Cincinnati.

[The Operator]

Well that first series was pretty bad.

[WVRed]

Well that first series was pretty bad.

Started out aggressive but yeah could be better.

[The Operator]

Fumble in the backfield somehow turns into a huge gain.

Not great tackling.

[WVRed]

Busted play turns into a first down. Ugh.

[WVRed]

Dax Hill sighting.

3-0 Ravens.

[The Operator]

Mixon for a loss of 2

[WVRed]

No surprise, Mixon loses yardage.

[The Operator]

Jesus, Zac


Not great.

[WVRed]

Three and out again. Collins beat.

[Roy Tucker]

Even I can tell you where the play is going.

[Hillsdale87]

La'el Collins is unfortunately very bad


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[The Operator]

We have one of the most talented offenses in the NFL and I have such little faith in them.

That’s a problem.

[WVRed]

Nice tackling.

[The Operator]

Sack!

But a flag in the secondary…

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Of course an automatic first down.

Ugh.

[KronoRed]

This play calling is just weird.

[The Operator]

Beautiful work by the defense.


Now let’s see if the offense can wake up.

[WVRed]

Hendrickson and Hubbard have been great tonight.

[Roy Tucker]

Very good Bengal defense so far.

[Kingspoint]

How is that not a late hit and to Burrow's head?

[The Operator]

QB draw in first down? Lol

A random number generator could call better plays than this.

[Kingspoint]

The play-calling is not getting better.

[The Operator]

Huber is NOT punting well.

[Roy Tucker]

And then a hold on Chase not called

[RiverRat13]

Huber is washed.

[Reds Freak]

QB draw in first down? Lol

A random number generator could call better plays than this.

I'm guessing Burrow saw something at the line and called. I can't imagine that came from the sideline.

[The Operator]

14 yards of offense so far.

Wow.

[The Operator]

TD Baltimore


This game’s gonna get ugly if the offense doesn’t wake up NOW.

[Roy Tucker]

A very poor first quarter by the bengals.

[The Operator]

Jesus

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A very poor first quarter by the bengals.

Not a great start to the 2nd either

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Another 3 & out

[Hillsdale87]

At a certain point these miscommunications have to be inexcusable. I know we were excited about Pollack coming back, but is he good?


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[oregonred]

No

[Wonderful Monds]

It is truly unfathomable how bad of a coach Taylor is

[Bob Sheed]

Dear Zac Taylor:

The NFL has your offense figured out. You had 10 days to fix it, and it actually looks worse.

How many more weapons do you need?

Signed,
Common Sense

[The Operator]

Intercepted!!!!

My good we needed that

[Roy Tucker]

Boy, they really needed that INT.

[The Operator]

A first down!!

Whew!

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Mixon showing signs of life.

That would be fantastic.

[Bob Sheed]

Shades of Bob Bratkowski.

One dimensional is being kind.

[The Operator]

Hurst!!!!!


We have a game again!!!

[Reds Freak]

I've noticed a playcaller is much smarter when your guys make plays and the other team misses tackles.

[Bob Sheed]

They beat the cover 2 with the run.

That's the antidote.

[Roy Tucker]

Things can change quickly. The Bengals were looking to be in the verge of a blowout. But an INT, some nice Mixon runs, a play by your backup WR, and then a good hustle play by the TE and now it’s a game.

[Hillsdale87]

Credit to Mixon. He looked good on that drive. More of that please


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[The Operator]

Love this defense

[Reds Freak]

Didn't Baltimore used to have a turf field? I prefer watching games on natural grass and support more stadiums making the switch.

[The Operator]

Alright.

A score going into the half here would be huge. Make it happen.

[The Operator]

Perine!!!

Huge 3rd down pickup after 2 batted passes

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Who was that laying on the field? Hurst?

[The Operator]

Tie game!!!

Wow.

[Reds Freak]

I don't have the sound on. What was going on with Burrow's dad there?

[The Operator]

I don't have the sound on. What was going on with Burrow's dad there?

Broadcast didn’t say anything other than pointing out they were at the game.

[Reds Freak]

Broadcast didn’t say anything other than pointing out they were at the game.

Oh ok. Looked like he was in a wheelchair and was pretty unsteady when he tried to get up.

[KoryMac5]

I don't have the sound on. What was going on with Burrow's dad there?

Dad has a foot issue...so hobbled a bit.

[oregonred]

Said Burrow's dad had foot surgery

[The Operator]

Well, it was a tale of two teams in the first half.

That Von Bell interception just totally changed the complexion of the game. Going into halftime tied after the way things started is incredible.

[Bob Sheed]

10-10 at the half, on the road?

We'll take it.

Hopefully Jonah is ok. As sketchy as the oline is, we don't want to see the backups.

[Reds Freak]

There was a debate this week on here about Tee Higgins. I'll say the Bengals offense is much, much more dangerous with him out there. I wonder if he'll back for second half.

[Bob Sheed]

There was a debate this week on here about Tee Higgins. I'll say the Bengals offense is much, much more dangerous with him out there. I wonder if he'll back for second half.

It's gonna be either forced passes or checkdowns to the TE/RB until they can beat the cover 2 with the run.

Healthy or no, all the WRs have been quiet.

[RiverRat13]

The Ravens are helping by not sticking with the run.

[The Operator]

Wow awful kickoff but Mac goes out of bounds


Ravens start at the 40

[RiverRat13]

Just bury the kick out of the end zone. Don’t overthink it.

[The Operator]

Had Dobbins stopped in the backfield and somehow it’s a first down

[The Operator]

Defense!!

Bengals take over on downs!!

[Hillsdale87]

Lamar saved us there. Can't miss those, but I'll take it!


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[RiverRat13]

Thanks, Lamar.

Bengals need to stay in shotgun. They look good running out of it.

[The Operator]

And Burrow responds by immediately getting picked off.

Ugh.

[CTA513]

All this talent and he's still trying to force it to chase

[The Operator]

Pretty nice job to only give up a field goal there.


13-10

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All this talent and he's still trying to force it to chase

He had 4 guys in his vicinity


Awful decision

[Roy Tucker]

Screens to Chase aren’t working.

[The Operator]

Wow

[Roy Tucker]

Oh jeez. Zach is going for it.

[The Operator]

Take the points Zac

[Wonderful Monds]

Uh ok

[The Operator]

Zac needs his keys taken away.

Awful awful awful awful awful decision

[Hillsdale87]

Goodness that play calling was a disaster


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[Kingspoint]

Would someone please remove that Grade School Coach from the field? He needs to pass the concussion protocols. Something is wrong with his brain.

[The Operator]

How many times do we need to watch them get blown up on 4th down before Zac learns to take the points and use his outstanding kicker?

That could be a huge swing right there.

[RiverRat13]

Actually running the ball straight ahead well from the gun and they don’t do it all from the 2.

[Reds Freak]

Zac needs his keys taken away.

Awful awful awful awful awful decision

They get mad in here one week they just pound Mixon at the goal line and they get mad the next when you try to get creative down there.

Either way, the two yard line hasn't been a kind place for the Bengals.

[Hillsdale87]

Zac needs his keys taken away.

Awful awful awful awful awful decision

I don't mind the decision. But none of those plays calls at the goal line were any good. At least let Mixon run it once. They've actually been getting good push


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[Kingspoint]

Hurst is open every play.

[Roy Tucker]

Zac was in Collins’ face after that play. I don’t think he knew his assignment.

But it was a stupid call.

[Todd Gack]

Zac was in Collins’ face after that play. I don’t think he knew his assignment.

But it was a stupid call.

Zac needs someone to yell at for his inept playcalling. Sorry Lael.

[Kingspoint]

No lead is safe for the Ravens.

[Todd Gack]

I am fine with Taylor the coach...Taylor the OC not so much.

A good coach realizes his weaknesses.

[Roy Tucker]

Zac needs someone to yell at for his inept playcalling. Sorry Lael.

I agree.

[Todd Gack]

Thankfully, the only person having a worse night than Zac is Lamar Jackson. SOmehow we're still in this game.

[Kingspoint]

I can't blame Zach for wanting to call the plays as having Burrow as your QB and Chase, Higgins and Boyd as your receivers would make you giddy about the possibilities.

But, it's like he's never done it before anywhere higher than CYO football.

[Redhook]

2 trick plays calls inside the 2 yard line. On the same drive. And, you wonder why they didn’t score. The Bengals are still in this game in spite of their HC.

[The Operator]

Pretty huge to limit this to a field goal.

Would be great if Zac could pull his head out of his butt for the next drive.

[oregonred]

Zac has been his usual awful, uncreative, painful self on playcalls, but Burrow has had time in the 2nd half and not been that sharp.

[Hillsdale87]

I'm very glad the Ravens kicked that


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[Roy Tucker]

Lots of Burrow passes batted down tonight.

[Todd Gack]

I actually liked that 3rd down call. Somewhat creative.

[oregonred]

Looked like Mixon was in

[RedTeamGo!]

Terrible throw by Burrow that Chase made an incredible catch on.

Can’t believe Harbaugh kicked the FG, going up by 6 is stupid.

[Hillsdale87]

This is a nice drive but taking too long. With Tucker, Ravens don't have to get too far to be in range. I'd rather they saved themselves some time in case the Ravens score


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[Todd Gack]

Looked like Mixon was in

Thought the same thing, but I don't think it can be overturned.

[The Operator]

TD!!!

Gonna need the defense to come up huge now. Still lots of time left for Lamar.

[Roy Tucker]

So why didn’t they do that play before?

- - - Updated - - -

Whoa. FGs and XP have been an adventure this year.

[RedTeamGo!]

Wow

[Reds Freak]

Yikes that XP...

[The Operator]

Come on defense….

[RiverRat13]

Give Zac credit for that design on the sneak.

[Todd Gack]

THought that was a great drive for Zac's playcaling.

[Kingspoint]

TD!!!

Gonna need the defense to come up huge now. Still lots of time left for Lamar.

You mean like they for the last 10 games?

[The Operator]

You mean like they for the last 10 games?

Exactly.

[Reds Freak]

I get the feeling they almost need a TO here.

[Kingspoint]

I get the feeling they almost need a TO here.

Done it before. They do what whatever is needed. Never seen a Bengals' Defense step up the way this one does.

[Roy Tucker]

Justin Tucker lurks.

[The Operator]

They’re into FG range.


Barring a turnover it’s over.

[Todd Gack]

Just think how different this would be had we actually kicked a FG earlier.

[The Operator]

Need a miss here.


Ugh

- - - Updated - - -

Welp.

Hang another one on Zac. I’m just so over his bonehead offensive decision making.

[Roy Tucker]

Just think how different this would be had we actually kicked a FG earlier.

Somebody needs to talk to Zac about kicking field goals instead of blowing 4th down wickey wacky plays.

[Hillsdale87]

Can't keep starting slow. Can't have some of these coaching errors.

All 3 losses this year on walk off FGs. Brutal. We quickly got on the other side of the close game luck


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[RiverRat13]

They absolutely have to win that game when the defense gives up 19 points.

[RedTeamGo!]

I knew the Ravens were going to win when they cut to Lamar Jackson calmly putting his helmet on after the bengals scored.

I’d like to know what he said to Burrow midfield after game. Burrow looked kind of surprised and said “thank you”

[Redhook]

Lamar gift wrapped this game to the Bengals and Taylor still couldn’t take advantage. The Bengals are incredibly resilient, but Taylor is really really hurting them. I blame two losses him already which is two too many.

[The Operator]

Zac’s a fine head coach but he’s one of the absolute worst offensive play callers and decision makers I think I’ve ever seen.

The offense shows up flat and unprepared every week. The play calling is just mind bendingly weird. Multiple trick plays in the red zone culminated in the refusal to take a game tying field goal.

This game’s on him.

[Kingspoint]

Russell Wilson: "Let's ride!"

Zac Taylor: "Let's run!"

[The Operator]

I still can’t get over watching Zac Taylor chew out La’el Collins after the blown up 4th & goal shovel pass. Awful look. Never should have been called in the first place.


The Bengals have one of the most talented offense in football and they underperform every single week because of their play caller. It has to stop.

[oregonred]

D couldn't stop Cooper Rush they werent going to stop Lamar. Ravens didnt break a sweat on the last drive.

Can't keep falling behind 10-14 pts which has been a Zac pattern too often since week 4 last year. (GB, cleve x2 KC x2, SF, SD las year) and the three losses this year.

At 2-3 and 0-2 they have minimal room for error the rest of the way. I can't see the 8 wins needed on the remaining schedule to pull out 10-7...

[Redhook]

D couldn't stop Cooper Rush they werent going to stop Lamar. Ravens didnt break a sweat on the last drive.

Can't keep falling behind 10-14 pts which has been a Zac pattern too often since week 4 last year. (GB, cleve x2 KC x2, SF, SD las year) and the three losses this year.

At 2-3 and 0-2 they have minimal room for error the rest of the way. I can't see the 8 wins needed on the remaining schedule to pull out 10-7...

They should win these 6:

Saints
Falcons
Panthers
Steelers
Browns (home)
Patriots

The other 6 games are tough for sure, but they should be able to win 2 of them. I think 10-7 still looks likely and would get them in the playoffs given the AFC’s lackluster performance so far.

[Wonderful Monds]

Zac Taylor as a Super Bowl coach may legitimately be the biggest fluke of all time, in all of sports history.

And I don’t think there is anyone more incompetent in all of sports who wastes the talent he has more than Taylor.



They will never ever win anything of any significance again until they reign in his moronic ass.

[UKFlounder]

Another disappointing game. But that’s life as a Bengals fan.you win some, you lose a lot.

[The Operator]

Zac Taylor as a Super Bowl coach may legitimately be the biggest fluke of all time, in all of sports history.

And I don’t think there is anyone more incompetent in all of sports who wastes the talent he has more than Taylor.



They will never ever win anything of any significance again until they reign in his moronic ass.

I’m fine with him as the head coach but they absolutely have to let someone else call the plays. He’s awful.


I just don’t get how this was ever a thing to begin with. He was the damn quarterbacks coach with The Rams and based on his resume the only time he might have had play calling experience was one year at UC and one year with The Dolphins? It’s not like he came in here with some long standing history as a brilliant offensive coordinator. Not sure who thought it would be a great idea to let a brand new head coach also call the plays without having much experience with it.

And now he’s in his 4th year here as the play caller and he’s still consistently awful. It has to stop.

They cannot afford to waste the affordable years of this offense.

[UKFlounder]

The D held Lamar to 19 points. That’s perfectly fine.I’ll take that every game.

This is an offense-driven league, and the Bengals dont have one. That is the issue in all 3 losses this year.





D couldn't stop Cooper Rush they werent going to stop Lamar. Ravens didnt break a sweat on the last drive.

Can't keep falling behind 10-14 pts which has been a Zac pattern too often since week 4 last year. (GB, cleve x2 KC x2, SF, SD las year) and the three losses this year.

At 2-3 and 0-2 they have minimal room for error the rest of the way. I can't see the 8 wins needed on the remaining schedule to pull out 10-7...

[Wonderful Monds]

I’m fine with him as the head coach but they absolutely have to let someone else call the plays. He’s awful.


I just don’t get how this was ever a thing to begin with. He was the damn quarterbacks coach with The Rams and based on his resume the only time he might have had play calling experience was one year at UC and one year with The Dolphins? It’s not like he came in here with some long standing history as a brilliant offensive coordinator. Not sure who thought it would be a great idea to let a brand new head coach also call the plays without having much experience with it.

And now he’s in his 4th year here as the play caller and he’s still consistently awful. It has to stop.

They cannot afford to waste the affordable years of this offense.

I agree he can stay as head coach, as long as he has zero to do with the X’s and O’s

[The Operator]

I agree he can stay as head coach, as long as he has zero to do with the X’s and O’s

Yep. He needs removed from the offense immediately.


We all know how this goes with The Bengals, though. It take them YEARS to move on from Bob Bratkowski. And oddly enough I’d take him over Zac right now, no questions asked.

[RiverRat13]

Joe just isn’t good under center. The offense started humming last year when they just went out of the gun. It’s a tough decision for Zac. He can try to make Joe improve under center for the long run, but that may end up sacrificing this season. Or he can just embrace what Joe does well and stay in the gun to get more wins this year.

[oregonred]

Zac is 7-8 in his last 15 regular season games... showing the math of 8-4 to make the playoffs with this Iowa like offensive mind being pretty unlikely.

Zac has won 18 of his 54 NFL regular season games. Agree the Super Bowl run may go down as the biggest coaching fluke of all time.

[The Operator]

Pretty ironic that The Bengals finally get a pretty good game from Joe Mixon and the running game in general and the offense still finds a way to crap the bed.

I’m still just in shock with how bad they’ve been. The defense regressing was a far bigger fear for me going into the season and yet they’ve been excellent.

[The Operator]

.

[GAC]

and going into this game the Raven's defense is bad ... really bad. Especially their pass D.

[The Operator]

Maybe next week Zac can call a flea flicker or possibly even a Statue of Liberty play at the goal line.

Can’t wait.

[KoryMac5]

Zac will never stop calling plays until Burrow or Tobin ask him not to...tough loss but all the losses this year have been tough.

[RedTeamGo!]

The Bengals have one of the most talented offense in football

I am unsure if this is true. They have a QB with a ton of potential and an excellent WR corps.

RB might be over the hill and the offensive line is one of the worst in the league.

[Sea Ray]

Honestly the game went exactly as it was supposed to. The Bengals were 3 pt dogs going in

[goreds2]

Zac will never stop calling plays until Burrow or Tobin ask him not to...tough loss but all the losses this year have been tough.

All three loses on the last play of the game.

[Tony Cloninger]

Roy Tucker bringing out the wicky wacky comment is of course what they called Sam Wyche back in 1987. When you saw all the ways they would lose and the dumb just overthinking Wyche would do starting with 2nd game SF at home where he tried to run out the clock and have SF the ball at the 20-30 with 1 play left. Anyways that’s Taylor. And he does not even have Wyche run game. But it’s a passing league and there’s a bunch of teams that have won barely running 25-30 times a game. You just have to go all in on the pass and pass blocking to make it work.

Also the D is great but devoid of TO which means they can still bend enough to give up GW Field goals.

I don’t think Burrow will go the Palmer route where he gets frustrated enough and the FO does not help him more or listen to his concerns. He is also not going down the field as was said enough and he’s not the only QB who has to deal with this.
Josh Allen made two long plays. One with him throwing from the end zone With Pressure.

I hope we are not seeing him Turning into Jared Goff here.

[Fil3232]

I am unsure if this is true. They have a QB with a ton of potential and an excellent WR corps.

RB might be over the hill and the offensive line is one of the worst in the league.

I agree with this right now. With Higgins out they have two great offensive talents and a bunch of meh around it.

Do people expect the offense to score 35+ per game, every game?

I thought not taking the FG was a big mistake. And let’s not overlook Burrow’s horrendous INT right after the Defense got a big stop. That was a crusher.

[Hillsdale87]

I am unsure if this is true. They have a QB with a ton of potential and an excellent WR corps.

RB might be over the hill and the offensive line is one of the worst in the league.

And two of their 3 losses have been without Higgins. The skill positions are loaded, but Burrow has just been meh most of the season, Mixon has been bad until last night, and Higgins has been battling injuries.

Losing that game sucks, but there were a few encouraging signs. Mixon looked so much better and like he trusted the blocking. The OL was pretty good after a rough first quarter. And I thought the offense had a pretty nice rhythm after a terrible first 20 minutes. I thought that was the best offensive stretch of the season. Minus some mind numbing play calling at the goal line, they would have had 24 points in the last 35 minutes of the game.


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[Hillsdale87]

I agree with this right now. With Higgins out they have two great offensive talents and a bunch of meh around it.

Do people expect the offense to score 35+ per game, every game?

I thought not taking the FG was a big mistake. And let’s not overlook Burrow’s horrendous INT right after the Defense got a big stop. That was a crusher.

I could be convinced either way on the FG. What can't be argued is that the plays were a disaster. Zac clearly doesn't trust the OL at the goal line, and getting cute backfired. Yes if they'd kicked a FG the Ravens would have needed a TD, but the way they were moving it at the end, it looked like they would have been able to score a TD. I generally err on the side of aggressiveness, so I'm fine with the decision


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[Roy Tucker]

They still haven’t run a fumblerooski.

[WVRed]

The good news is the Bengals “should” bounce back against the Saints next week. I say that and Taysom Hill will tear them to shreds.

Ravens go to NY to face the Giants who are 4-1 and just took down Green Bay. They could easily be tied for the division next week again.

[KoryMac5]

Zac trending on twitter this AM for obvious reasons.

[RichRed]

Question from an outsider who admittedly didn’t watch the whole game: Did it seem like Burrow was locked in to the right side of the field on about 90% of his dropbacks? Minus the times they were in hurry-up and there were several short passes to the left, I mean.

[The Operator]

Question from an outsider who admittedly didn’t watch the whole game: Did it seem like Burrow was locked in to the right side of the field on about 90% of his dropbacks? Minus the times they were in hurry-up and there were several short passes to the left, I mean.

I can’t speak to which side of the field but I know they tried to force the ball to Chase on a number of plays, especially early, when it just was not there.

[WVRed]

I can’t speak to which side of the field but I know they tried to force the ball to Chase on a number of plays, especially early, when it just was not there.

That’s an obvious Burrow trait though. I don’t think that has anything to do with playcalling it’s just his favorite receiver when he needs a bailout.

One thing that I think is lost in last nights game is the Ravens changing defensive coordinators in the offseason. Yes they did have the worst pass defense in the league but they brought MacDonald over from Michigan to implement a zone defense instead of Wink Martindales man to man after being torched by Burrow last season. They’ve struggled against everyone else against the pass but limited Burrow last night. The defense is built to stop the Bengals.

[Bob Sheed]

It's worth remembering that before Burrow, Zac Taylor was Dave Shula Part Duh.

Then the Bengals Front Office tried to ruin Burrow, and they were rewarded by getting Chase.

Now, with all that talent on offense, best Taylor can do is Bob Bratkowski. And his scripted plays have gone from suck to blow too.

I think he's a good enough HC. As an offensive coordinator, I've never seen anyone do so little with so much.

Frustrating, as a fan. It's like watching someone drive a Lambo back and forth through a school zone, doing 20mph.

[Hillsdale87]

That’s an obvious Burrow trait though. I don’t think that has anything to do with playcalling it’s just his favorite receiver when he needs a bailout.

One thing that I think is lost in last nights game is the Ravens changing defensive coordinators in the offseason. Yes they did have the worst pass defense in the league but they brought MacDonald over from Michigan to implement a zone defense instead of Wink Martindales man to man after being torched by Burrow last season. They’ve struggled against everyone else against the pass but limited Burrow last night. The defense is built to stop the Bengals.

The Ravens did a pretty great job against Josh Allen and the Bills the week before too. It was by far the Bills' worst offensive game of the season. They had a few rough games early but seem to be coming along


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[WVRed]

The Ravens did a pretty great job against Josh Allen and the Bills the week before too. It was by far the Bills' worst offensive game of the season. They had a few rough games early but seem to be coming along


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The Dolphins inexplicably gashed them in Week 2 so that had a lot to do with it.

[Ky Fried Redleg]

The defense has clearly been superior to the offense thus far. Having said that, when we've needed one stop to close it out, the defense has not been up to task. Superbowl , and this season. Good defense but not elite.

[Fil3232]

The defense has clearly been superior to the offense thus far. Having said that, when we've needed one stop to close it out, the defense has not been up to task. Superbowl , and this season. Good defense but not elite.

It’s a wonderful bend but don’t break defense. Bow up and force FGs. Perfect if the offense is humming, which it’s not.

[Tony Cloninger]

The only QB I recall utilizing the TE as part of the game plan was Ken Anderson to Dan Ross or even ML Harris, who was 6-4 and dangerous inside the 10. As much as he loved Curtis than fixated on Collingsworth after he came along. Dan Ross was his big target Even Pete Johnson was dangerous coming out of the backfield with short passes. Lindy Infante and his offense saved Anderson from the constant beating he took after Walsh left because the offense became deep throws and long drops/slower development of plays than Walsh had of course started designing in 74 due to no running game at all. What they call that? The Cincinnati Offense they called it until the 49ers ripped it off.

Anyways. Burrow needs to just go to the TE as the 2nd option more and they need to use Evans more. You’re just going to stubbornly keep trying this I need to have the WR as the main offense until they are out of the playoffs. Then of course they will magically figure it out.

[GAC]

All three loses on the last play of the game.

Ohia teams ;)

[WVRed]

The only QB I recall utilizing the TE as part of the game plan was Ken Anderson to Dan Ross or even ML Harris, who was 6-4 and dangerous inside the 10. As much as he loved Curtis than fixated on Collingsworth after he came along. Dan Ross was his big target Even Pete Johnson was dangerous coming out of the backfield with short passes. Lindy Infante and his offense saved Anderson from the constant beating he took after Walsh left because the offense became deep throws and long drops/slower development of plays than Walsh had of course started designing in 74 due to no running game at all. What they call that? The Cincinnati Offense they called it until the 49ers ripped it off.

Anyways. Burrow needs to just go to the TE as the 2nd option more and they need to use Evans more. You’re just going to stubbornly keep trying this I need to have the WR as the main offense until they are out of the playoffs. Then of course they will magically figure it out.

I know it’s way too early to be talking about this but I would love to see the Bengals take Darnell Washington from Georgia in the upcoming draft.

6’7, 270 lb TE who would be an absolute mismatch in the passing game.

Couple that with Bijon Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round and I’d be happy.

[Tony Cloninger]

I know it’s way too early to be talking about this but I would love to see the Bengals take Darnell Washington from Georgia in the upcoming draft.

6’7, 270 lb TE who would be an absolute mismatch in the passing game.

Couple that with Bijon Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round and I’d be happy.

That would be great. Just get an OC who values the TE and it would work. This reliance on WR who don’t have time or cannot get open due to OL not holding blocks or whatever. Someone mentioned Bratkowski. He had better OL to help his offense at least.

I can only bet by the time they figure it out the defense will then fold.

[Redsfaithful]

Looking at the schedule, I think they go into the Chiefs game 8-3 or 7-4. Should win 9-10 games and make the playoffs, unless they lose someone like Burrow.

[Kingspoint]

From Hobson:

Left tackle Jonah Williams reached down deep Sunday night. He missed the last six plays of the first half when he went down with an MCL sprain, but came back in the second half and ended up playing 90 percent of the snaps on a night Pro Football Focus made him the highest graded Bengal on offense with no pressures on 37 snaps.

Taylor said Williams is day-to-day, indicating there would be some pain the days after. Wide receiver Tee Higgins (sprained ankle) looks to be in the same boat. He had been limited all last week and could only go ten plays early in the game. "Obviously it was touch and go there. We'll just have to continue to rest him." Taylor said. "He was trying to manage it all week. Tried to give it a go for the game. Came out early at halftime. Still wanted to make himself available in case it came up. We've got to be mindful as we practice this week to make sure when we get him to the game he's healthy. I don't know what the practice will look like this week. We'll just have to take it day-to-day with him."

- - - Updated - - -

More from Hobson:

The Bengals had their best day of the season running the ball with running back Joe Mixon averaging 5.6 yards for his 14 carries. With the Ravens doing what other teams are doing and not letting Burrow unleash his receivers on the deep ball by laying back in zones, players and coaches realize the only way they can get teams out of it is by running the ball.

"Mostly every team we've played so far is playing two high so we've got to run the ball," Boyd said. "We can't really utilize our outside playmakers as much as everybody and myself wants. At the end of the day, whatever they give us is what we got to attack. You saw the run game start to open up and that's going to create opportunities for us to get plays off."

"It complemented what we were finding success with in the past there in the second quarter, second half," Taylor said. "I thought those guys up front did a good job, the tight ends did a good job, the backs did a really good job, Mixon and Samaje (Perine). There was some combination stuff we were trying to do with the runs and passes there that we found some success with.

[Kingspoint]

Finally from Hobson...

Here's why Taylor went for it on fourth down from the 2 with 2:45 left in the third quarter and the Ravens leading, 13-10. Burrow's fourth-down shovel pass intended for wide receiver Stanley Morgan cutting up the middle went nowhere. Taylor said he passed up the tying field goal because he felt his defense was playing so well that a 17-13 lead would be close to a dagger. Plus, with the Ravens backed up on 20, he anticipated the Bengals getting the ball back at midfield and not Baltimore keeping it for 8:03, 91 yards and 15 plays for a field goal.

- - - Updated - - -


I know it’s way too early to be talking about this but I would love to see the Bengals take Darnell Washington from Georgia in the upcoming draft.



Can you get him with the 32nd pick?

[Hillsdale87]

Finally from Hobson...

Here's why Taylor went for it on fourth down from the 2 with 2:45 left in the third quarter and the Ravens leading, 13-10. Burrow's fourth-down shovel pass intended for wide receiver Stanley Morgan cutting up the middle went nowhere. Taylor said he passed up the tying field goal because he felt his defense was playing so well that a 17-13 lead would be close to a dagger. Plus, with the Ravens backed up on 20, he anticipated the Bengals getting the ball back at midfield and not Baltimore keeping it for 8:03, 91 yards and 15 plays for a field goal.


Sound logic IMO. Just a terrible play call

- - - Updated - - -

PFF is not a fan of the Bengals offense so far... https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-cincinnati-bengals-offense-broken-joe-burrow-zac-taylor?fbclid=IwAR0T6GjfPTGnbpdlyHvHAeYzOgG_XcgDfn DJnrs3_xMdzYLB-joRKQHDUDE

[Fil3232]

Sound logic IMO. Just a terrible play call

- - - Updated - - -

PFF is not a fan of the Bengals offense so far... https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-cincinnati-bengals-offense-broken-joe-burrow-zac-taylor?fbclid=IwAR0T6GjfPTGnbpdlyHvHAeYzOgG_XcgDfn DJnrs3_xMdzYLB-joRKQHDUDE

Terrible play call or terrible execution? I see KC run the play regularly

[Hillsdale87]

Terrible play call or terrible execution? I see KC run the play regularly

KC does it pretty well, and they're about the only ones. I don't necessarily hate the shovel pass around the goal line, but not on 4th down. On a do or die play, I want to give Burrow a chance to read the field and make a play.

[plantmanky]

Zac was in Collins’ face after that play. I don’t think he knew his assignment.

But it was a stupid call.

Collins doesnt block any assignment, ever.

[Fil3232]

KC does it pretty well, and they're about the only ones. I don't necessarily hate the shovel pass around the goal line, but not on 4th down. On a do or die play, I want to give Burrow a chance to read the field and make a play.

Very fair. Don’t disagree.

[WVRed]

Finally from Hobson...

Here's why Taylor went for it on fourth down from the 2 with 2:45 left in the third quarter and the Ravens leading, 13-10. Burrow's fourth-down shovel pass intended for wide receiver Stanley Morgan cutting up the middle went nowhere. Taylor said he passed up the tying field goal because he felt his defense was playing so well that a 17-13 lead would be close to a dagger. Plus, with the Ravens backed up on 20, he anticipated the Bengals getting the ball back at midfield and not Baltimore keeping it for 8:03, 91 yards and 15 plays for a field goal.

- - - Updated - - -



Can you get him with the 32nd pick?

Probably. PFN has him getting drafted early to middle 2nd round.

[Todd Gack]

Collins doesnt block any assignment, ever.

Maybe, but it's a pretty weak look to yell at one of your players for the first time in your career after a pretty horrific call.

[Fil3232]

Maybe, but it's a pretty weak look to yell at one of your players for the first time in your career after a pretty horrific call.

Why?

[Kingspoint]

Why?

True....could be cumulative from training camp, which he missed a ton of, to the first four games.

[Sea Ray]

Finally from Hobson...

Here's why Taylor went for it on fourth down from the 2 with 2:45 left in the third quarter and the Ravens leading, 13-10. Burrow's fourth-down shovel pass intended for wide receiver Stanley Morgan cutting up the middle went nowhere. Taylor said he passed up the tying field goal because he felt his defense was playing so well that a 17-13 lead would be close to a dagger. Plus, with the Ravens backed up on 20, he anticipated the Bengals getting the ball back at midfield and not Baltimore keeping it for 8:03, 91 yards and 15 plays for a field goal.

- - - Updated - - -



Can you get him with the 32nd pick?

Hindsight shows how poor Taylor's reasoning is. As it turns out the Ravens had time to score 2 FGs. Furthermore, you can't go for a dagger when you're behind.

[Tony Cloninger]

Collins has disappeared to the point you might as well use a backup.

[Wonderful Monds]

Maybe, but it's a pretty weak look to yell at one of your players for the first time in your career after a pretty horrific call.

It’s not a terrible call if it works, and it might’ve worked if Collins head wasn’t in the clouds

[Fil3232]

Hindsight shows how poor Taylor's reasoning is. As it turns out the Ravens had time to score 2 FGs. Furthermore, you can't go for a dagger when you're behind.

If they score we have no idea what would’ve happened though. And the Bengals scored another TD. Not sure how that shows bad reasoning.

[Sea Ray]

If they score we have no idea what would’ve happened though. And the Bengals scored another TD. Not sure how that shows bad reasoning.

You take the easy points and play the rest of the game. There was time left for the Bengals to score a TD and the Ravens to score 2 FGs. His reasoning that 17 pts was insurmountable was flawed

[Kingspoint]

Play-action on 1st.

Run on 2nd.

Run on 3rd.

Kick the FG.

That should have been the play-calling with much better chances of succeeding for a TD.

[Fil3232]

You take the easy points and play the rest of the game. There was time left for the Bengals to score a TD and the Ravens to score 2 FGs. His reasoning that 17 pts was insurmountable was flawed

I don’t think that was his reasoning.

I took dagger to mean flipping the game flow and setting up a situation where the Ravens have to score a TD to win, instead of FG. And even with a BAL TD, Bengals could’ve tied it with a FG. Cincy was staring at a Tucker game winning FG most all the second half. I called it early 4th quarter.

[Sea Ray]

I don’t think that was his reasoning.

I took dagger to mean flipping the game flow and setting up a situation where the Ravens have to score a TD to win, instead of FG. And even with a BAL TD, Bengals could’ve tied it with a FG. Cincy was staring at a Tucker game winning FG most all the second half. I called it early 4th quarter.

It's not rocket science that a TD is better than a FG. We can all count, but his reasoning was flawed because he misjudged how many more possessions there'd be. He also overestimated his defense

[Hillsdale87]

It's not rocket science that a TD is better than a FG. We can all count, but his reasoning was flawed because he misjudged how many more possessions there'd be. He also overestimated his defense

I don't think that's right. The rest of the game would have been managed differently if the Bengals had scored there. You can't just look at how the game ended up playing out and say it would have gone the same regardless of how that goal line series went. If they'd kicked a FG there, I'm guessing Harbaugh would have gone for it instead of kicking a FG on 4th and inches when they went up 16-10. If it was 13-13, he probably gets more aggressive, and they're going to convert 4th and inches probably 90+% of the time. So the most likely scenario is that if the Bengals had kicked a FG, they would have ended up down 20-13 instead of the 16-10 that it ended up being due to not converting there.

IMO the only way they would have won that game is if they'd scored a TD on that drive.

[Fil3232]

It's not rocket science that a TD is better than a FG. We can all count, but his reasoning was flawed because he misjudged how many more possessions there'd be. He also overestimated his defense

Yeah you’re wrong. Sorry.

[Sea Ray]

Yeah you’re wrong. Sorry.

No, Taylor was wrong in that he lost the game

[Sea Ray]

I don't think that's right. The rest of the game would have been managed differently if the Bengals had scored there. You can't just look at how the game ended up playing out and say it would have gone the same regardless of how that goal line series went. If they'd kicked a FG there, I'm guessing Harbaugh would have gone for it instead of kicking a FG on 4th and inches when they went up 16-10. If it was 13-13, he probably gets more aggressive, and they're going to convert 4th and inches probably 90+% of the time. So the most likely scenario is that if the Bengals had kicked a FG, they would have ended up down 20-13 instead of the 16-10 that it ended up being due to not converting there.

IMO the only way they would have won that game is if they'd scored a TD on that drive.

The possibilities would have been endless. In hindsight the Bengals would have been better off with 3 there rather than 0. Taylor has eschewed the easy 3 for a go for it 4th down often this year and it's often backfired on him.

[Hillsdale87]

The possibilities would have been endless. In hindsight the Bengals would have been better off with 3 there rather than 0. Taylor has eschewed the easy 3 for a go for it 4th down often this year and it's often backfired on him.

Even saying they were better with 3 than 0 is not necessarily true. Yes, at the time it would have been better to have 3 than 0. But if they'd tied the game, the Ravens likely would have gone for the TD instead of the FG and been up 7, when in reality they chose to kick the FG to go up 6.

I agree that it was a close call, and I completely understand people who say to just take the easy 3. I lean toward going for the TD there, but it's close. And yes, there have been times that they've gone for it on 4th and missed, but there also have been times it's been successful. But we just generally remember the failures more than the successes

[RiverRat13]

Even saying they were better with 3 than 0 is not necessarily true. Yes, at the time it would have been better to have 3 than 0. But if they'd tied the game, the Ravens likely would have gone for the TD instead of the FG and been up 7, when in reality they chose to kick the FG to go up 6.

I agree that it was a close call, and I completely understand people who say to just take the easy 3. I lean toward going for the TD there, but it's close. And yes, there have been times that they've gone for it on 4th and missed, but there also have been times it's been successful. But we just generally remember the failures more than the successes

I don't mind going for the touchdown, either. But as Moe Egger put it, if my choices are three points or a shovel pass to Stanley Morgan, I'll take the three points :)

Part of the rationale for going for it is that the Ravens are pinned deep if you don't get it. The Ravens then went 95 yards before being stopped for a FG after the Bengals turned it over on downs. If we're going to play the "what if" game, had the Bengals kicked it, then given the ball to Baltimore at the 25 after the kickoff, then the Ravens might have scored a touchdown instead of a FG (75 yards is easier than 95 yards). To say that the Bengals would have won had they kicked the FG there is an oversimplification. As Hillsdale87 points out, the game is played differently all the way around had it been 13-13 instead of 13-10.

[Hillsdale87]

I don't mind going for the touchdown, either. But as Moe Egger put it, if my choices are three points or a shovel pass to Stanley Morgan, I'll take the three points :)


Ha. Right. If Zac had told me that the only option was a low percentage play one read play for the #5 WR, I probably would have told him to pass on that one...

[Sea Ray]

Ha. Right. If Zac had told me that the only option was a low percentage play one read play for the #5 WR, I probably would have told him to pass on that one...

It gets back to my point: 3 pts is better than 0

[bucksfan2]

I don't mind going for the touchdown, either. But as Moe Egger put it, if my choices are three points or a shovel pass to Stanley Morgan, I'll take the three points :)

Part of the rationale for going for it is that the Ravens are pinned deep if you don't get it. The Ravens then went 95 yards before being stopped for a FG after the Bengals turned it over on downs. If we're going to play the "what if" game, had the Bengals kicked it, then given the ball to Baltimore at the 25 after the kickoff, then the Ravens might have scored a touchdown instead of a FG (75 yards is easier than 95 yards). To say that the Bengals would have won had they kicked the FG there is an oversimplification. As Hillsdale87 points out, the game is played differently all the way around had it been 13-13 instead of 13-10.

You go for it there, I think its pretty simple. The play call that got them into trouble was the 2nd down play call. IMO I would have tried to run it on on 1st down, and probably 2nd down as well.

I agree 100% that the game changes if its 13-13 as opposed to 13-10. As as Mo Egger put it, if my choices are a toss sweep half back pass to Tee Higgins or kicking the FG, kick the FG. But sometimes the not so obvious play works in the super bowl. As for the play in Sunday nights game, had Collins blocked the right way, who knows what would have happened. Sometimes the play that isn't that obvious works, because the defense isn't looking for it. IMO the biggest mistakes in that game were the plodding TD drive in which they took the lead as well as not completely selling out in the last drive. With Justin Tucker on the other sideline (same thing can be said about McPherson) if the Ravens get to mid field or there abouts, the Ravens have a chance at winning the game. IMO once you get to the point where Tucker can kick a FG, sell out completely and allow them to score a TD instead of bleeding the clock down. Once the Ravens got to the Bengals 35ish line, the next play I would have let them score. I would much rather have the ball in Burrow's hands with a minute to play than let the Ravens bleed the clock and turn to the best kicker in the league.

[Kingspoint]

Ha. Right. If Zac had told me that the only option was a low percentage play one read play for the #5 WR, I probably would have told him to pass on that one...

I would have told him to give me the clipboard and go sit down.

[Kingspoint]

I don't mind going for the touchdown, either. But as Moe Egger put it, if my choices are three points or a shovel pass to Stanley Morgan, I'll take the three points :)

Part of the rationale for going for it is that the Ravens are pinned deep if you don't get it. The Ravens then went 95 yards before being stopped for a FG after the Bengals turned it over on downs. If we're going to play the "what if" game, had the Bengals kicked it, then given the ball to Baltimore at the 25 after the kickoff, then the Ravens might have scored a touchdown instead of a FG (75 yards is easier than 95 yards). To say that the Bengals would have won had they kicked the FG there is an oversimplification. As Hillsdale87 points out, the game is played differently all the way around had it been 13-13 instead of 13-10.
Bengals haven't given up a 2nd half TD all season. Didn't matter where the ball was going to be placed. That's also the premise Taylor was working off of. At worst, the Bengals would be ahead 17-16 and get the ball back to make it a TD lead again.

But, it still comes down to crappy play-calling. If your play-calling is that bad, then kick the FG whenever the opportunity presents itself.

[Kingspoint]

Which Offense will score more points this weekend?

The Joe Burrow led Bengals, or...

The Skylar Thompson led Dolphins?

That shouldn't be a close call, yet it is.

[WVRed]

Which Offense will score more points this weekend?

The Joe Burrow led Bengals, or...

The Skylar Thompson led Dolphins?

That shouldn't be a close call, yet it is.

The Bengals “should” bounce back this week.

New Orleans might be rushing back Jameis Winston and all three of their top receivers are out.

[Boss-Hog]

The Bengals “should” bounce back this week.

New Orleans might be rushing back Jameis Winston and all three of their top receivers are out.I don't think Chris Olave is confirmed out. He's in the concussion protocol, so it could go either way. I believe the others also aren't officially out, as that designation usually comes Friday for Sunday games, but they sound less likely at this point.

[Bob Sheed]

Can't say this is a trap game because the Bengals aren't playing with any confidence.

So this is more along the lines of a "get right" game, hopefully.

[Fil3232]

Which Offense will score more points this weekend?

The Joe Burrow led Bengals, or...

The Skylar Thompson led Dolphins?

That shouldn't be a close call, yet it is.

I don’t think it’s a close call. Unless Skylar massively improved from last week.

[KoryMac5]

Can't say this is a trap game because the Bengals aren't playing with any confidence.

So this is more along the lines of a "get right" game, hopefully.

Road games are never easy in the NFL...

[Kingspoint]

Road games are never easy in the NFL...

And, Dalton still throws a great pass 20 yards over the middle.

[KoryMac5]

Latimore, Landry, Thomas are all out for the Saints. Olave is questionable.

Bengals need to get going against a depleted Saints team.

[Hillsdale87]

Looks like Olave will be out. This is a must win


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Todd Gack]

It’s not a terrible call if it works, and it might’ve worked if Collins head wasn’t in the clouds

What happened on the previous play? Lemme know again why Collins should've been yelled at after our fearless leader decided to take his issues out on someone else.

[The Operator]

Not a great opening series.

- - - Updated - - -

Glad to see Higgins back, regardless.

[The Operator]

Wow

[UKFlounder]

Well-prepared for this game

[The Operator]

They show up unprepared and flat every single week, with very few exceptions.

[The Operator]

Saints have already bested their average first half scoring. Lol

[Sea Ray]

Wow

Hell, he was dropping that ball without even being hit. That's totally unacceptable. Let's hope our coaches treat it that way