News Bengals Team Notes

Zac Taylor confirms Cam Taylor-Britt was benched for his play vs. Broncos

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Cam Taylor-Britt has had an up-and-down season so far. Mostly down.

And now we know why his head coach decided to bench him for his poor play in Week 4 against the Denver Broncos.

While Taylor-Britt had injured his hamstring on September 17, this demotion was not related to that injury.

Bengals CB Cam Taylor-Britt was effectively benched against the Broncos, coach Zac Taylor said. CTB’s limited snaps were not injury-related.

— Ben Baby (@Ben_Baby) October 1, 2025

CTB was outmatched on a lot of plays, as Denver’s offense looked as good as it has all year. Bo Nix, who had been one of the worst QBs in the league, made a number of big plays at the corner’s expense.

Courtland Sutton cooked Cam Taylor-Britt so badly he made him switch to OL mid-play 😭 pic.twitter.com/j8HLWcN1zi

— GhettoGronk (@TheGhettoGronk) September 30, 2025

As a result, Taylor-Britt only saw five snaps. DJ Turner played every defensive snap, while Josh Newton and Dax Hill played 64 of 81 snaps.

#Bengals snap count thoughts:

🏈 Was an 11P game. Chase/Higgins/Iosivas nearly all game with Gesicki top TE.

🏈 Big uptick for Myles Murphy, most snaps at DE.

🏈 Just 5 (rough) snaps for CTB. Newton takes over. pic.twitter.com/0sYBjmAI3Z

— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) September 30, 2025

We’ll see if Newton can help limit more big plays than CTB. But the main problem for the Bengals is on offense.

For the team to have any chance against the Detroit Lions, they will need Ja’Marr Chase to take over against a Detroit secondary with some missing pieces.

We previewed the Week 5 matchup with Ash Soden of the Roar of the Lions UK podcast. You can watch below.

You can also listen on iTunes or by using the player below.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...lor-britt-was-benched-for-his-play-vs-broncos
 
A few takeaways from the Bengals’ All-22 film vs. Broncos

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We witnessed another pathetic performance by the Bengals offense in a 28-3 loss at Denver.

I try and use the PFF grades as a starting point for players to clip up each week when viewing the All-22. Those grades should never be the end all, be all, for judging the performance of a player.

Jalen Rivers​


Jalen Rivers made his first start of his young NFL career at right guard. He was credited with allowing three pressures and a sack in the game. He finished with a 17.2 pass blocking grade per PFF. His run blocking grade was a 45.9.

The All-22 definitely shows some of that rough play. He did open up some running lanes when he wasn’t being asked to pull. That clearly is not a strong part of his game.

He has to be more consistent with his hand usage in pass protection. That was my biggest takeaway for what gave him issues against the Broncos.

Jalen Rivers vs. Denver pic.twitter.com/zQEfOmvgiy

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) September 30, 2025

I will not defend him and say that he had a good performance. What I will say, is that once you turn to a young rookie offensive lineman, you should probably give them more starts to see if they can grow. There were some things to build on.

Amarius Mims​


Mims had a PFF pass blocking grade of 19.0. His run blocking grade was a 58.8. He was credited with allowing five pressures, two sacks, and recorded two penalties.

He moves so well at his size for the position. There is still a ton of talent with this player. He looked pretty good early in the game, then it all started to unravel. Right now, there is just no consistency from game-to-game and series-to-series for Mims.

What he continues to struggle with is the inside counter moves. If he cannot fix that, he will continue giving up pressures and sacks. There were also a couple of instances where the Broncos got excellent jump off the snap. Zac Taylor has to learn to get the play calls in quicker, because he is doing a complete disservice to his tackles in those situations.

Amarius Mims (#71) vs. Broncos pic.twitter.com/kbVPmk8FQ9

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) September 30, 2025

Demetrius Knight Jr.​


Knight finished the game with ten total tackles, six solo tackles, and his first career interception. There were a couple of plays that he was late to diagnose. He was also dumped by Courtland Sutton on a big run late in the game.

There is under 7 minutes left in a 21-3 game and Courtland Sutton drives this linebacker into the ground like it’s a game winning drive to help get the first 100 yard rusher of the Sean Payton era.

Worth every penny. https://t.co/wD269mTr03 pic.twitter.com/QleXwDnhB6

— Robby (@Robby_NFL) September 30, 2025

With that said, I clipped up some of the better plays I thought he made in this game. I continue to be encouraged by what I am seeing from the rookie linebacker. He has great range, can cover, and is developing his ability to blitz. It was also encouraging to see him making tackles out in space.

One of the more positive things is the energy and effort he plays with. He doesn’t have a chance to get his first interception, if he doesn’t run down and force a wide receiver out of bounds. On that play, Jordan Battle falls in coverage. If Knight doesn’t get him knocked out of bounds, he most likely scores a touchdown. A couple of plays later, he makes the interception.

Demetrius Knight Jr. vs. Denver pic.twitter.com/iUvGfCQk6L

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) September 30, 2025

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...aways-from-the-bengals-all-22-film-vs-broncos
 
Jalen Rivers set to start at right guard vs. Lions

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Fans of the Cincinnati Bengals don’t have a lot to feel good about these days.

But at least it looks like they had a solid Draft, with pass rusher Shemar Stewart and left guard Dylan Fairchild flashing potential immediately.

And now it looks like the Bengals are moving forward with Jalen Rivers, a fifth-round pick out of Miami, at right guard.

Rivers got his first start last week against the Denver Broncos, and his head coach liked what he saw.

“In his first start on the road to Denver against that front, I was pleased with what Jalen did, and I think he continued to build off of that,” Zac Taylor told Bengals.com’s Geoff Hobson. “And I really liked his demeanor throughout the game.”

Taylor went on to add that the rookie has a “maturity to him” such that it’s clear he’s processing and absorbing instructions from coaches.

Up next, Rivers will have to deal with a solid Detroit defensive front line that includes former Bengal DJ Reader.

We previewed that game with Ash Soden of the Roar of the Lions UK podcast. Watch below.

You can also listen on iTunes or by using the player below.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinnati-bengals-news/176222/jalen-rivers-start-right-guard-lions
 
3 key players for Bengals vs. Lions

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I guess I could just write that the Bengals need a new coach, an actual general manager, and new ownership. While that may be the real glaring issues facing the franchise, I will try and look at three players that need to have big weeks for the Bengals to have a shot of pulling off the upset against Detroit this week.

It is fair to say the offensive line has been bad. It is fair to say the running game is non-existent. It is fair to say Zac Taylor is in over his head.

Jake Browning​


It is also fair to say that Jake Browning has not played well this season. He currently has three touchdowns and five interceptions on the season. He missed wide-open players throughout the Denver game. He has to play much better this week for the Bengals to stand any chance of beating the Lions.

Jake Browning why did we take the sack right here? You had Jamarr Chase wide open. #NFL #RuleTheJungle pic.twitter.com/C59fU6WrVt

— dN Street (@dNstreeeet) September 30, 2025

Amarius Mims​


Mims is coming off a week where he gave up two sacks. The tape wasn’t awful, but the bad plays were really bad. Zac Taylor getting the play calls in is a part of the problem. Dealing with inside counter moves is another. He also recorded two penalties during the game. Those are drive killers, which this offense cannot afford to have.

Amarius Mims (#71) vs. Broncos pic.twitter.com/kbVPmk8FQ9

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) September 30, 2025

His assignment this week? A guy by the name of Aidan Hutchinson. Hutchinson already has twenty-three pressures and four sacks on the season. Mims will have to be at his best all day long, or Hutchinson will wreck this game.

When you motion to double team Pat O'Connor instead of Aidan Hutchinson, you're gonna have a bad time. pic.twitter.com/krYRgqj8Ai

— Jeremy Reisman (@DetroitOnLion) October 1, 2025

TJ Slaton​


Slaton was the Bengals’ first signing during free agency. He was expected to come in and help the Bengals limit the opposing running game. So far, it has been mixed results.

TJ Slaton with a great debut for the Bengals pic.twitter.com/QMzYVNWQvh

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) September 9, 2025

With the duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery coming to town, he has to play at a high level. Combined, “Sonic and Knuckles” are averaging over five yards per carry on the season. If they let those guys go off in the running game, we could be in for another blowout loss.

Who do you think needs to have a big performance for the Bengals to pull out a win on Sunday?

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinnati-bengals-analysis/176116/3-key-players-lions
 
NFL Week 5 Lions at Bengals Preview: The Orange and Black Insider

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The Cincinnati Bengals are in a tailspin. After starting out 2-0 for the first time under Zac Taylor, the team lost its franchise quarterback and the following two games, sitting at .500.

While all is not lost in 2025, Jake Browning and the team need to play a much better brand of football than what we’ve seen the past two weeks. That won’t be an easy turnaround this week, though, as the stout Detroit Lions come to town.

What do the Bengals specifically need to do to turn things around? Can Zac Taylor and Dan Pitcher finally make the right pivots on offense this week?

We talk about all of that and more on Friday at 3:30 p.m. ET live, or else you can catch the show on your favorite platform afterward!

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Follow our Twitter page and ‘like’ our Facebook page for more Cincinnati Bengals stuff. And, check out our BLEAV in Cincy podcast channel. Who Dey!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...-bengals-preview-the-orange-and-black-insider
 
Prospects of interest around college football this week

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The Bengals will have plenty of needs for the draft. It is impossible to know what positions will be targeted this early on. What we can do is take a look at some draft-eligible prospects from games around the college football slate this weekend.

Kentucky at Georgia​


Kentucky: Joshua Braun (OG), Jalen Farmer (OG), Jager Burton (OC), Dante Dowdell (RB), David Gusta (DT), Kahlil Saunders (DT), JQ Hardaway (CB), Jordan Lovett (S)

Interception by JQ Hardaway. Cats are firing on all cylinders. pic.twitter.com/IG3owdgI67

— Rare Rookies #BBN (@rarerookies) October 27, 2024

Georgia: Monroe Freeling (OT), Earnest Greene III (OT/OG), Drew Bobo (OC), Oscar Delp (TE), Lawson Luckie (TE), Zachariah Branch (WR), Dillon Bell (WR), Christen Miller (DT), CJ Allen (LB), Raylen Wilson (LB), Daylen Everette (CB), Daniel Harris (CB), Joenel Aguero (S)

Monroe Freeling (#57) could take a big leap this season for Georgia. He is expected to be the starting Left Tackle after being a spot starter/rotational player last season at both LT and RT. He has the size (6’7 315) and footwork as a former basketball player to develop into a… pic.twitter.com/wd1DfVNx96

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) July 28, 2025

Kansas State at Baylor​


Kansas State: Jayce Brown (WR), Jerand Bradley (WR), Dylan Edwards (RB), Austin Romaine (LB), Desmond Purnell (LB), VJ Payne (S)

Austin Romaine versus Iowa State pic.twitter.com/xSFq9gC5iZ

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) September 2, 2025

Baylor: Sawyer Robertson (QB), Bryson Washington (RB), Michael Trigg (TE), Josh Cameron (WR), Keaton Thomas (LB)

Impressive game by #Baylor QB Sawyer Robertson last weekend. Threw for 440 yards and 4 TDs in a comeback win. Showed poise and confidence throughout

This throw stood out: Sits in the pocket, aggressive in middle of the field to tie the game

Natural distributor from the pocket… pic.twitter.com/1NRzH7e2tA

— Eric Galko (@EricGalko) September 11, 2025

Texas at Florida​


Texas: Trevor Goosby (OT), DJ Campbell (OG), Arch Manning (QB), CJ Baxter (RB), Tre Wisner (RB), DeAndre Moore (WR), Jack Endries (TE), Ethan Burke (DE), Trey Moore (LB), Cole Brevard (NT), Anthony Hill Jr. (LB), Malik Muhammad (CB), Jaylon Guilbeau (CB), Michael Taaffe (S)

Texas’s Trevor Goosby has the chance to be the top offensive tackle in the 2026 class. Freak athlete, long arms, insane movement skills, strong anchor, and he brings all 6’ 7” 315 pounds when he blocks you. Need to see some mental development out of him but he is one of the… pic.twitter.com/Py8KORlSgH

— Mark Kinley (@ONLYSPORTSMK) September 19, 2025

Florida: Austin Barber (OT), Jake Slaughter (OC), Knijeah Harris (OG), J. Michael Sturdivant (WR), Eugene Wilson III (WR), Hayden Hansen (TE), Tyreak Sapp (DE), Caleb Banks (DT), Jamari Lyons (DT), Grayson Howard (LB), Devin Moore (CB), Jordan Castell (S), Bryce Thornton (S)

Florida LT Austin Barber had prbably the best game of his career vs LSU. He's a 4 year starter for the Gators and his tape was full of flashes but has been too inconsistent. He seems to be figuring things out in his final season and should rise up draft boards #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/tLjDMDJUJ6

— Steve Letizia (Formerly CFCBears) (@CFCBears) September 16, 2025

Vanderbilt at Alabama​


Vanderbilt: Diego Pavia (QB), Sedrick Alexander (RB), Eli Stowers (TE), Khordae Sydnor (DE), Randon Fontenette (S)

Really interested to see how Gamecocks matchup against Commodore TE Eli Stowers: one of the best in the nation.

Stowers can line up everywhere but he’s really dangerous when matched up with LBs.

Johnson, Okoronkwo & Murphy need to be on alert. pic.twitter.com/2jblnMZ28F

— Matt O'Brien (@mattobrien31) September 13, 2025

Alabama: Ty Simpson (QB), Jam Miller (RB), Isaiah Horton (WR), Germie Bernard (WR), Josh Cuevas (TE), Kadyn Proctor (OT), Jaeden Roberts (OG), Parker Brailsford (C), LT Overton (DE), Tim Keenan III (DT), James Smith (DT), Deontae Lawson (LB), Domani Jackson (CB), Bray Hubbard (S), Keon Sabb (S)

LT Overton (6’5 285) EDGE/DL

Overton spent two years at Texas A&M and will be heading into his second season with Alabama. He is a high effort player with good athleticism for his size, is stout against the run, and has good bull rush power and pursuit speed. He had 39… pic.twitter.com/mpXf6RyHVU

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) July 4, 2025

Miami at Florida State​


Miami: Carson Beck (QB), Mark Fletcher (RB), CJ Daniels (WR), Francis Mauigoa (OT), Anez Cooper (OG), Rueben Bain Jr. (DE), Akheem Mesidor (DE/DT), Mohamad Toure (LB), Wesley Bissainthe (LB)

Rueben Bain Jr. vs. Notre Dame pic.twitter.com/P9W3gTefEB

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) September 18, 2025

Florida State: Micah Pettus (OT), Luke Petitbon (OC), Duce Robinson (WR), Squirrel White (WR), James Williams (DE), Daniel Lyons (DT), Darrell Jackson Jr. (DT), Earl Little Jr. (FS)

Darrell Jackson Jr. (#6) Florida State

6’5” 341 pounds

2024 numbers to know: 32 tackles, 30 pressures, and 3.5 sacks pic.twitter.com/zWr0ypRuTb

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) August 7, 2025

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...llege-football-georgia-kentucky-texas-florida
 
5 keys to beating the Lions

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The Bengals have lost the last two games in humiliating fashion, but are they really going to let themselves be embarrassed at home?

The Detroit Lions have been pretty good at beating up on bad football teams, defeating the Chicago Bears 52-21 and the Cleveland Browns 32-10. But what if, and I’m just throwing this out there, the Bengals aren’t a bad team.

Wild take, I know.

Here is what the Bengals need to do this weekend to prove they aren’t going away.

Distribution​


The Bengals may be without Joe Burrow, but they still have the best wide receiver duo in the NFL in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. They have got to get those guys involved. The Bengals have too many weapons not to be more productive on offense, regardless of who is under center. They need to get the ball to their stars.

3rd Downs​


The Bengals have converted just 5 of 22 3rd downs over the last two weeks. That is insanely bad and cannot continue.

They were completely unable to maintain a drive a week ago. After converting four first downs in the first drive before settling for three points on the first drive, the Bengals converted only 5 more the rest of the game. They need to protect Browning long enough for him to connect with the open man on third down.

Discipline​


Whenever it looked like they might be able to get something going offensively, turnovers killed them. They need to play smart and not bury themselves in long yardage situations or negate positive plays. The biggest thing Joe Burrow takes away from their absence is their margin for error. They cannot afford these kinds of mistakes without him to work his magic and make up for them.

Turnovers​


The Bengals need any advantage they can get. Without Joe Burrow under center, it is even more important that this offense has more opportunities. Al Golden’s crew needs to get the ball back for the offense. At the same time, the offense cannot turn the ball over. Not only did the Vikings score two defensive touchdowns against the Bengals in Week 3, but they also scored two more and a field goal after three other turnovers.

It is time for that pendulum to swing back into the Bengals’ favor.

Run the Ball​


The run game has been non-existent, which is bad with a healthy Burrow and devastating without him. They need to find something they can be good at and make their bread and butter this season. They need a play/scheme that everyone understands and can execute regardless of the defensive look.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinnati-bengals-analysis/176250/5-keys-detroit-lions
 
Bengals News (10/4): Roger That

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Bengals News​


Bengals Make Roster Moves Ahead of Week 5 | BENGALS ROSTER UPDATE

The Bengals today made the following roster moves:

Three keys for how the Cincinnati Bengals can pull the upset over NFC power Detroit Lions

The Cincinnati Bengals host the Detroit Lions Sunday, Oct. 5 at Paycor Stadium in NFL Week 5.

AFC North Roundtable: Bengals, Browns, and Ravens have their work cut out with Steelers taking early lead

Checking in on our beat writers from around the AFC North after four weeks.

Bengals Named One of NFL’s Five Worst 2-2 Teams In Past 45 Seasons

About as bad as it gets at 2-2.

Ja’Marr Chase wants ‘more fire and anger’ from Bengals locker room

Cincinnati Bengals wideout Ja’Marr Chase made a point to step up as a vocal leader this season, well before Joe Burrow went down with an injury.

Bold mock Bengals trade sends Trey Hendrickson to Super Bowl contender

If the Cincinnati Bengals’ backslide from the last two games continues, there’s no shying away from the harsh truth that they could be major sellers at the NFL trade deadline.

NFL News​


NFL rookie rankings at quarter mark of 2025 season: Abdul Carter, Emeka Egbuka, Tyler Warren top list

Welcome to the first edition of the 2025 rookie rankings! Before we get started, allow me to answer a few questions that could be on your mind.

NFL Week 5 odds, predictions, expert picks: Will Eagles fend off Broncos? Can Saints earn first win?

CBS Sports and SportsLine break down every single NFL game in Week 5

Arthur Jones, a defensive lineman who won a Super Bowl with the Ravens, has died at 39

Arthur Jones, a defensive lineman who spent his first four NFL seasons in Baltimore and won a Super Bowl with the Ravens, has died. He was 39.

Tyreek Hill returns to Dolphins’ facility, speaks to team

Miami Dolphins players got a surprise guest speaker during Friday’s meeting — wide receiver Tyreek Hill.

Mac Jones Cooked the Rams—Because Kyle Shanahan Gave Him the Recipe

The 49ers backup had the game of his pro career on Thursday, thanks to a coach who seems to have a cheat code to unlock any quarterback

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinnati-bengals-news/176332/bengals-news-10-4-roger-that
 
5 key players to watch for the Detroit Lions

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The Cincinnati Bengals will host the Detroit Lions this Sunday at 4:15 pm ET. The Bengals are coming off two straight road losses. Losing to both the Minnesota Vikings and the Denver Broncos in ugly fashion. Meanwhile, the Lions are currently on a three-game winning streak.

The Lions will be 10.5-point favorites entering the game. Let’s take a look at some of the noteworthy players on the Detroit roster.

Aidan Hutchinson​


The Bengals are once again giving up sacks at an alarming rate. Meanwhile, Aidan Hutchinson is once again among the sack leaders in the NFL.

He will mainly be lined up opposite of Amarius Mims. Mims was credited with allowing two sacks against Denver. If he cannot contain Hutchinson, he could end up recording another two to three sacks against the Bengals this week.

Hutchinson is a game-changer for the Lions. He is arguably the best pure pass rusher in the entire league when healthy. If the Bengals cannot contain him, they are in for a long evening.

Aidan Hutchinson in his last 9 healthy games:

🦁 95.0 pass rush grade (1st)
🦁 68 pressures (1st)
🦁 11.5 sacks (1st)
🦁 32.7% pass rush win rate (1st) pic.twitter.com/0hIYeAmXBu

— PFF (@PFF) September 30, 2025

DJ Reader​


Is this a DJ Reader revenge game? Will Dan Campbell put him in the backfield and hand the ball off for a touchdown? Honestly, nothing would be shocking this week.

Reader is playing right around 35 snaps per game this season for the Lions. He doesn’t have any major statistics, but is a steady force in the middle of the Lions defense. His defensive coordinator recently had a ton of praise for his play on the field and what he brings as a veteran leader.

Really enjoyed listening to Kelvin Sheppard RAVE about Detroit Lions DT DJ Reader 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/2I0csWyfym

— Woodward Sports Network (@woodwardsports) October 2, 2025

Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery​


The running back duo that likes to call themselves Sonic and Knuckles are a huge part of the Detroit offense. Montgomery is averaging 5.7 yards per carry with three touchdowns on the season.

Montgomery will have extra motivation this week as someone who grew up in the Cincinnati area. His sister will be attending one of his games for the first time since a car accident left her paralyzed.

David Montgomery will be feeling all the emotions in his Week 5 homecoming in Cincinnati.

His sister, who was paralyzed in a car accident, will be there watching ♥️@heykayadams | @MontgomerDavid | @Lions pic.twitter.com/1i4lMYBbKX

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) September 30, 2025

Meanwhile, Jahmyr Gibbs is averaging 4.7 yards per carry with four touchdowns of his own. He is also a dynamic weapon out of the backfield catching passes from Jared Goff. Gibbs consistently makes guys miss in the open field with his dynamic feet. It will be imperative that the Bengals limit the explosive plays.

Jahmyr Gibbs Primed For Week 5 Explosion 💣

Gibbs gets a juicy matchup with volume locked in, elite receiving chops, and the kind of home-run upside that tilts fantasy lineups.pic.twitter.com/pDHQrm7Rqw

— RotoLegends (@RotoLegends) October 3, 2025

Amon-Ra St. Brown​


St. Brown has already amassed over 300 receiving yards and six touchdowns through four games this season. He is considered one of, if not the top, slot wide receiver in all of professional football. His chemistry with Jared Goff is off the charts. It should be an exciting match-up to watch him versus Dax Hill on Sunday.

Amon Ra St Brown now has the most touchdowns by any NFL wide receiver since 2023 with 26.

WRU! ✌🏼 pic.twitter.com/1jz4gBhfjz

— Nico (@USC_Nico) September 23, 2025

Can the Bengals pull off the upset? Sound off with your score predictions in the comments.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinnati-bengals-analysis/176273/5-key-players-watch-detroit-lions
 
Rookie Report: Bengals vs. Lions

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The Bengals only had six picks in the most recent NFL draft, and their top choice, defensive end Shemar Stewart, has been sidelined for the past few weeks. And yet, somehow the Bengals’ rookies seem to be the silver lining on the brown paper bag filled with flaming dog poo that is the last three weeks.

Second-round pick Demetrius Knight continues to improve every single week. Knight had eight total tackles this week and now leads the team with 40 tackles on the season. He made a great play to deflect Jared Goff’s pass when defensive Al Golden sent Knight on a blitz off the edge on third down. Knight is processing faster and doing a better job of getting off blocks over the past few weeks. We have also seen him step up in coverage, which was his supposed weakness.

The second level of the defense has had a lot of struggles outside of Knight. Logan Wilson looks a bit sluggish, and when the team drops defensive ends Cam Sample and Joseph Ossai into coverage, they immediately regret that decision. Barrett Carter had six tackles and has a ton of upside. He has been praised for his brains and leadership.

In this game, he had six tackles. Why not get him on the field more and watch him grow like Knight has?

It was great to see Knight shine, particularly in this game where he was on the field against Tate Ratledge, the mulleted rookie guard who went a pick after Knight and was a fan favorite during the draft process.

Instead, the Bengals waited another round and took Ratledge’s Georgia teammate Dylan Fairchild to start at guard. Last week, they added another rookie guard to the starting lineup by giving fifth-round pick Jalen Rivers the nod over Dalton Risner. The offensive line, as a unit, looked much better this week. The team ran the ball relatively well, largely taking it up the gut behind Fairchild and Rivers. Both have also been impressive in pass protection. The problems ailing the Bengals in that realm are largely coming around the outside.

The Bengals are in the position they are in right now largely because of missing on draft picks, but that was not the case this season. It may be too little too late, but this year’s draft class looks like the foundation for the team’s linebacker and interior line units as we venture into the future. It will be fun to see what sixth-round running back Tahj Brooks can do once he earns some reps behind Chase Brown and Samaje Perine.

Additionally, Stewart will be back soon. Trey Hendrickson, Myles Murphy, and Ossai combined for four sacks on Sunday. Adding Stewart to that mix could make a big impact.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinnati-bengals-analysis/176493/rookie-report-detroit-lions
 
Cincinnati Bengals Quarterback Trade Block

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For whatever reason, Jake Browning’s ability to read a defense seems to have disappeared without a trace. So what do the Cincinnati Bengals do now?

The Most Talked About​


Kirk Cousins makes a lot of sense. He has had success with multiple teams, has the leadership qualities that this team desperately needs, and recently starred in a Netflix series with Joe Burrow. You like this? I like this.

The big problem with Cousins is the money, but that may also be the advantage. The Falcons might be willing to give him up for peanuts just to get him off their books.

This list is topped with Jameis Winston, but while the former first overall pick has a cannon, he also has a penchant for throwing interceptions. Turnovers are a big part of why the Bengals find themselves in their current predicament, so acquiring Winston doesn’t make a whole lot of sense.

Winston’s New York Giants teammate, Russell Wilson, could be a better option, but the Super Bowl Champion thrives with play action, and that might not be a great fit. Of course, that may just force the Bengals to use more play action, so maybe this could be a good fit after all.

The notable advantage of Wilson or Winston is that there are two of them. The Giants may be willing to give one up since they only need one backup to Jaxson Dart.

There might be something to say for bringing in a rookie with a lot to prove, like Shedeur Sanders. He chucked the ball around in college. In his final season at Colorado, he threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns while completing 74 percent of his passes. He is bound to make rookie mistakes, but maybe he could bring some explosiveness into this offense as well.

Of course, for a Sanders trade to go through, the Browns would need actually to send the fax.

Bengals Connections​


As long as we are on rookies, let’s talk about Riley Leonard. He is coming off an excellent season at Notre Dame, where he threw for 2,831 yards and 21 touchdowns with only eight interceptions.

The Bengals subscribe to their own version of “if you can’t beat them, join them,” where they sign players who play well against them. Leonard was 15 of 20 for 189 yards with one touchdown pass and another touchdown run when the Colts saw the Bengals in the preseason.

Posts about how this team or that team “could do the funniest thing ever” have become pretty cliché, but the Bengals really could do the funniest thing ever by trading for the red rifle Andy Dalton. It also has the potential to be one of the best stories ever, not to mention an incredibly unexpected late-career arc pushing Dalton into a new echelon of team greatness.

Con: Dalton was known for choking in primetime and big games.

Pro: Dalton has experience “feeding the beast” and winning games by getting the ball to A.J. Green.

Why is No One Talking About…​


Could the answer be the return of Minshew Mania? Gardner Minshew is coming off his worst career season, but maybe he has a little of that old magic left in him. The Bengals need a spark to get the offense going, and he could be it. However, he is currently a Kansas City Chief, and they are unlikely to make a move that could make the Bengals a contender while they await Burrow’s return.

He may be 36, but Tyrod Taylor is still out there competing. He has completed 70 percent of his passes while throwing three touchdowns and only one interception for the Jets this year. His experience and dependability could be extremely valuable to the Bengals over the next couple of months.

Tommy DeVito was a pretty solid player in his starts for the New York Giants, going 3-3 in 2023, while throwing for 1,101 yards, eight touchdowns, and only three picks. Last year, he was 0-2 with no touchdowns or interceptions, but he completed 70 percent of his passes. DeVito is number three on the Patriots depth chart, which makes him an easier get than most of the players we have discussed.

Drew Lock may be number two in Seattle, but with promising rookie Jalen Milroe waiting in the wings, the Seahawks may be willing to part with him. Lock has some skills, but has never found sustained success in the NFL. Still, he is a good schematic fit for the Bengals, who would definitely be worth a shot with the current state of things.

My Top 10 Options​

  1. Kirk Cousins
  2. Russell Wilson
  3. Tyrod Taylor
  4. Shedeur Sanders
  5. Andy Dalton
  6. Tommy DeVito
  7. Jameis Winston
  8. Gardner Minshew
  9. Drew Lock
  10. Riley Leonard

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...back-trade-block-gardner-minshew-tommy-devito
 
Bengals Film Room: Joe Flacco Is The Guy

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The Bengals did it. They made a move at quarterback, and a big one at that.

Joe Flacco brings a big arm and excellent processing to Cincinnati. He may be just what the Bengals need to stay alive until the return of Joe Burrow.

Let’s take a look at what he has done recently.

Flacco going deep pic.twitter.com/12tcedF4X0

— Matt (@CoachMinich) October 8, 2025

Despite their two star wide receivers, the 2025 Bengals offense has been completely devoid of explosive plays. That can change with Flacco under center. Flacco has a big arm and deep ball accuracy. Just take a look at the ball in this clip.

Giving him the best receiving corps he has ever played with will create a lot of opportunities for Flacco to shine in Cincinnati. The Bengals need a quarterback who can get the ball to their playmakers, and Flacco is that guy.

I know no one (especially Browns fans) cares, but this is an unreal throw from Joe Flacco with pressure in his face. pic.twitter.com/hXymPc049h

— Jeremy Reisman (@DetroitOnLion) October 1, 2025

I know what you are thinking. “He can’t throw the ball to anyone if he is on the ground.”

Well, the savvy veteran Flacco can make fast reads and has a quick delivery. The clip above is a great example.

He can stand in the pocket and make the throw even under duress. He did it in Cleveland with an offensive line that is worse than that of the Bengals. Now he gets to do it with much better weapons.

Flacco moving the chains pic.twitter.com/pCaOT8N0nF

— Matt (@CoachMinich) October 8, 2025

It’s also worth noting that he is not a statue back there.

He isn’t going to create too much time with his feet or take off for a 50-yard touchdown run, but he can step and slide in the pocket to give himself the time he needs.

This is a great example of just that. Flacco does just enough to buy himself time to complete the third-down pass to move the sticks and get them in field goal range on this two-minute drive.

This was an excellent move by the Bengals, adding a veteran with a wealth of experience and some gas left in the tank to get this team back on track.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...176756/film-room-joe-flacco-highlights-browns
 
Lions at Bengals Week 5: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

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The Cincinnati Bengals returned to Paycor Stadium in Week 5 looking to build momentum and remind the league that they’re still contenders in the AFC. Instead, they left their home crowd frustrated and searching for answers after a 31–20 loss to the Detroit Lions — a game that featured bright moments, familiar frustrations, and some downright ugly football that left the Bengals at 2–3 and reeling for direction.

Let’s break it all down.

The Good​


Ja’Marr Chase Shines and the Defense Fights

Even in a deflating loss, Ja’Marr Chase reminded everyone why he’s among the NFL’s elite. The star receiver hauled in six receptions for 101 yards and two touchdowns in a game that Cincinnati definitely needed big plays on offense. Chase continues to be the offense’s heartbeat — even on a day when much else went wrong.

Defensively, there were moments to appreciate as well. Trey Hendrickson was once again disruptive, tallying two sacks and multiple pressures on Jared Goff, while Joseph Ossai and Myles Murphy also brought Goff to the turf. For continuously being put in precarious positions, Al Golden’s defense held up in some ways and gave the offense a chance to claw back — but the help they needed was too little, too late.

The Bad​


The Bad: Offensive Play-Calling and Browning’s Missed Opportunities

The Bengals’ offense has been searching for rhythm all season, and Sunday was no exception. With Jake Browning starting once again in place of the injured Joe Burrow, Cincinnati’s attack sputtered and stalled far too often. Browning finished the day 26-of-40 for 251 yards, three touchdowns, and three more interceptions, but those numbers don’t tell the full story. Too many throws were late, too many reads were missed, and the Bengals fell into a big hole early on.

It didn’t help that the play-calling remained conservative and predictable, especially on early downs. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher leaned heavily on runs that Detroit’s front seven sniffed out repeatedly, leaving Browning in long-yardage situations. On third down, the Bengals converted just 4 of 11 attempts, a glaring problem that has plagued them through five weeks.

Throw in a run game that netted under 100 yards as a team (31 of which were by Browning), and the offense once again set up the team for failure. Cincinnati’s first five offensive drives of the game saw them end with three punts and two interceptions, as the unit managed just three first-half points.

The Ugly​


Self-Inflicted Wounds and a Third-Consecutive Blowout Loss

The Bengals were minus-2 in the turnover margin, and it could have been worse if the team hadn’t recovered two other fumbles of its own on offense. Since taking over for Burrow through four games, Browning has had three games with multiple turnovers committed.

Not coincidentally, the Bengals have lost their last three games by a combined 76 points, resulting in an average of a 25.3-point differential per game. While this week’s loss and differential to the Lions wasn’t a team-worst (like it was against the Vikings a few weeks ago), and they showed some signs of improvement from the past two losses, the team has looked completely overmatched in recent weeks.

This, of course, begins to harken back to long-standing narratives about the team, its leadership, and championship viability in the foreseeable future.

Final Thoughts​


Trouble Brewing in the Jungle

A home loss like this stings more than most. It wasn’t just that the Bengals lost to a good Lions team — it’s that they once again looked disjointed, undisciplined, and unprepared. The defense gave them chances. Ja’Marr Chase did everything he could. But the offense remains a work in progress under Jake Browning, and predictable play-calling continues to limit the unit’s potential.

At 2–3, Cincinnati is far from out of the playoff picture — but urgency is rising. Whether Joe Burrow’s return is imminent or not, this offense needs a spark and a plan. If they can’t find answers soon, the “bad” and “ugly” of Week 5 could become the story of their season.

WE’ll see what the recent acquisition of Joe Flacco will mean for the team, but no matter who is under center, a wide variety of facets need to greatly improve, should the Bengals begin to take advantage of a weak AFC conference right now.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinnati-bengals-analysis/176546/lions-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly
 
Joe Flacco Joins Bengals, Cincinnati aims Week 6 Rebound: OBI

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It’s been a whirlwind beginning of the week for the Cincinnati Bengals. After a disheartening home loss at the hands of the Lions (their third straight defeat), the team reassessed their roster status.

Backup quarterback Jake Browning has struggled since taking over in the second half of Week 2 for Joe Burrow, throwing eight interceptions in three and a half games of play. With the high amount of turnovers and the team hitting a major losing streak, the Bengals made a seemingly-unlikely move to bring in veteran signal-caller, Joe Flacco.

Can Flacco, a guy with extensive AFC North experience, steady things for Cincinnati? Is this a sign that the team is expecting Joe Burrow back this year, or the opposite?

All of this and more as we take the air live on Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. ET. Catch us live, or get it on your favorite platform afterward!

Our show is brought to you by America’s No. 1 Sportsbook, FanDuel! Go get your bets in ahead of this big Week 3 clash.

We’re also brought to you by FOCO, the Fans Only Company. They have exclusive lines of Bengals merchandise for fans to check out!

Follow our Twitter page and ‘like’ our Facebook page for more Cincinnati Bengals stuff. And, check out our BLEAV in Cincy podcast channel. Who Dey!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/afc-nor...ns-bengals-cincinnati-aims-week-6-rebound-obi
 
Andrew Whitworth gives shocking stat on Bengals offensive line history

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The Cincinnati Bengals have been having issues with their offensive line since Joe Burrow got to Cincinnati in the 2020 season. This isn’t news to any Bengals fan, but this isn’t just a problem in the Zac Taylor era. The Bengals have been struggling to protect quarterbacks for the better part of a decade.

When appearing on the Pat McAfee Show on Monday, former Bengals offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth revealed a shocking stat about the Bengals’ lack of success evaluating and retaining offensive line talent.

"The Bengals need to spend a little more money on that offensive line..

It's been fourteen years since the Bengals drafted an offensive lineman and they've signed a second contract" ~ @AndrewWhitworth #PMSLive https://t.co/ZPWxLp0hSq pic.twitter.com/yuupbQq5eN

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) October 6, 2025

Yes, you heard that right. Since 2011, the Bengals have not drafted an offensive lineman who would go on to sign a second contract with the franchise. Despite drafting several players in that timeframe, only Clint Boling has signed with the team beyond his rookie contract.

For context, of 11 offensive lineman drafted between 2011 and 2020 have not signed a new deal with the franchise. That number could go up depending on how the last four draft classes pan out.

When asked why he believes that is the case, Whitworth said that it is more of an evaluation issue than anything and with those numbers, it is hard to disagree.

The team has changed head coaches and had several offensive line coaches in the last 14 years and since then, they haven’t drafted a single player they were willing to retain. It can be a mixture of coaching, development and talent evaluation from the start. As of now, the history shows that the Bengals haven’t figured any of those out.

We’ve seen the struggles year after year, but to hear it spelled out that way is shocking.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...hitworth-shocking-stat-offensive-line-history
 
Most of the Midwest will see Bengals vs. Packers: Week 6 TV coverage map

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The Cincinnati Bengals (2-3) head to Green Bay to face the Packers (2-1-1) in what will be Joe Flacco’s debut in the orange and black.

Those residing in the Midwest will get to see Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins team with the veteran QB in trying to bring the passing attack back.

Others will see the San Francisco 49ers at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for CBS’ late game.

Find your location on the map below from 506 Sports to see which game you’ll get.

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Catch our video preview of the game below.

You can also listen on iTunes or by using the player below.

Meanwhile, CBS’ early games can be seen on this map.

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And here is Fox’s single game.

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The nationally-televised games will be as follows:

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Giants on Amazon’s Thursday Night Football.

Denver Broncos vs. New York Jets in London on NFL Network Sunday morning, with Rich Eisen and Kurt Warner on the call.

Detroit Lions at Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday Night Football on NBC.

Buffalo Bills at Atlanta Falcons on Monday Night Football at 7:15 PM ET on ESPN, with Chris Fowler, Dan Orlovsky, and Louis Riddick.

Chicago Bears at Washington Commanders on Monday Night Football at 8:15 PM ET on ABC, with Joe Buck and Troy Aikman.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...see-bengals-vs-packers-week-6-tv-coverage-map
 
5 keys to beating the Packers

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The Bengals are packing up their 3-game losing streak and their certified pre-owned quarterback and heading to Lambeau Field for a game that their own mothers probably don’t think they can win. Well, I am no man’s mother.

Here is how they can win on Sunday.

Get Flacco Up to Speed​


40-year-old Joe Flacco needs to push the Wedding Crashers and Anchorman quotes to the side of his brain and learn what he needs to know to run the Bengals offense in a hurry.

If I were Zac Taylor, I would sit down with Flacco and ask him about his 3 or 4 favorite concepts. Then I would teach him how those concepts are implemented in our system and build the game plan around those few things, with lots of window dressing to confound the defense while remaining simple for our offense. You don’t have to run the whole offense. Just focus on what Flacco is most comfortable with.

Find Flacco Friends​


The next step is getting Flacco on the same page with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. He needs to understand where those guys expect the ball to be placed to convert on some deep balls. Flacco has always had a cannon for an arm, but he has never had a pair of wideouts like 1 and 5. This could be fun.

Checkdowns can be big plays, too, so the game plan should utilize both Chase Brown and Noah Fant as pass protectors with check releases. Both Brown and Fant can take these five-yard passes and turn them into explosive plays.

Keep Flacco Upright​


Of course, the evergreen caveat is “can you protect the quarterback?”

That is particularly true when you are playing Micah Parsons, Rashan Gary, and Lukas Van Ness.

The Bengals’ pass protection in the middle hasn’t been bad, but they have really struggled on the edges. Amarius Mims can bounce back, but Orlando Brown might need a little help

Possess the Football​


Turnovers have been a huge contributor to the Bengals’ losing streak, and Flacco has been no stranger to interceptions this season either.

To win this week, they cannot afford to make that kind of error.

Flacco must be smart and avoid interceptions. The offense as a whole needs to hold onto the football.

Golden Boys​


The defense has shown a lot of promise this season under Al Golden, but to win this week, they will really have to step up their game.

Here are the three things they must do to win this game

  • 1. They need to stay on top of big plays and make the Packers drive the entire field.
  • 2. They need to buckle down in the Red Zone and force field goals
  • 3. They need to force turnovers.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinnati-bengals-analysis/176958/5-keys-to-beating-green-bay-packers
 
How to make sure Cincy Jungle shows up in your Google search

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As many of you are likely aware, Google searches are … different these days.

It can make it a little more difficult for you to find the Bengals news you want, whether it be from Cincy Jungle or Bengals websites run by ‘real’ people, not AI-generated content with no heart or soul in it and that lacks the passion Bengals fans have for their favorite team and want to see in the content they read.

The good news is that Google is offering a solution for folks who like to get their news from specific sources. If you want to help Cincy Jungle — while also streamlining all your Google searches — there is now a way.

Simply click on this link and add Cincy Jungle as one of your “Source preferences.” That’s all there is to it!

Back in August, the tech giant debuted a feature called “Preferred Sources.” It’s a way for Google to prominently feature the results from websites you trust, like Cincy Jungle:

“With the launch of Preferred Sources in the U.S. and India, you can select your favorite sources and stay up to date on the latest content from the sites you follow and subscribe to — whether that’s your favorite sports blog or a local news outlet.

“When you select your preferred sources, you’ll start to see more of their articles prominently displayed within Top Stories, when those sources have published fresh and relevant content for your search.”

It’s no secret that AI searches are hurting outlets around the world and in all spaces. We’ve worked hard at Cincy Jungle to build a brand you can trust and rely on for Cincinnati Bengals coverage. Our goal is to serve you, the fans.

If you’re a fan of our work and want to get the best Cincinnati Bengals coverage possible, this is an excellent win-win to improve your Google searches while helping Cincy Jungle out.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...preferred-sources-search-results-instructions
 
Bengals vs Packers: 5 Questions With Acme Packing Co.

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The Cincinnati Bengals have a daunting NFC North matchup for the second consecutive week, with this Sunday pitting them against the formidable Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Joe Flacco takes over at quarterback, as the team is trying to find any kind of offensive rhythm to get back on track after a 2-0 start.

We tapped the knowledge of Justis Mosqueda over at SB Nation’s Packers site, Acme Packing Co. this week, to get a peek behind the fence to get his take on all things Green Bay heading into Week 6. Here are five burning questions from the Cincinnati side to get a feel for things heading into Sunday.

1.) AC: Since Joe Flacco is starting with the Bengals this Sunday, what did you see from him out of the Packers’ loss to the Browns under his watch a couple of weeks ago? The stat line wasn’t impressive, but Cleveland did get the very unexpected win.

JM:
Well, Flacco threw 36 balls against the Packers and only completed three beyond like seven yards downfield, so we didn’t get a great look at how Flacco could push the ball deep. For the most part, he just checked the ball down in that game.

I will say, though, 1) you guys have much better pass-catching options at wide receiver than the Browns did (duh) and 2) his interception against Green Bay was a deep shot on fourth down where the Packers actually would have been better off dropping the ball, so I wouldn’t hold that against him. For the most part, he just protected the football and took checkdowns the first time around.

2.) AC: What’s going on with Josh Jacobs? He had an OUTSTANDING 2024 campaign, but his current yards per carry is over one yard less per carry this year…

JM:
Buddy, let me tell you about this offensive line. Most of Jacobs’ yards have come after contact this year, which is pretty amazing. So far, the Packers have used 10 offensive line looks in 2025 – more than they used in all of 2024 combined and more than any other team in the league so far in 2025.

We have three linemen on the IR or PUP right now. On top of that, backup tackle Anthony Belton is already ruled out versus Cincinnati. ON TOP OF THAT, starting left guard Aaron Banks, starting right tackle Zach Tom and starting left tackle Rasheed Walker are all listed as questionable for this game. Banks and Tom have yet to finish a full game in the 2025 season.

The short and sweet: We’re in the year from hell when it comes to early offensive line injuries. Jacobs can still play. He’s just having to earn every yard by himself at this point.

3.) AC: Jordan Love looks like he’s playing very well this year (eight touchdowns vs one interception). He was already a top-level quarterback coming into this year, but might he be taking yet another step in his development in 2025?

JM:
He’s been good at connecting on deep shots this year. There’s still a couple of weird mistakes that he’s made, like the late interception against the Browns and how he handled the clock at the end of the Cowboys game, but his accuracy has been really good. Green Bay is never going to be a team that wants to throw for 300 yards going into a game. Even on second and longs, head coach Matt LaFleur is regularly calling run plays. But when he’s asked to make a play, Love has done well this year.

4.) AC: Aside from that blip loss to Cleveland, Green Bay looks like one of the front-runners for a deep postseason run this year. Does this team have any glaring weaknesses? They appear to be pretty well-rounded.

JM:
The biggest worry for me is the depth on the defensive line. With starter Devonte Wyatt out, their only backups on the roster for this game are going to be undrafted rookie nose tackle Nazir Stackhouse, who earned a 20 grade from Pro Football Focus against the Dallas Cowboys, and rookie draft pick Warren Brinson, who has been inactive for every game up to this point.

Dallas was the first team that committed to the ground game enough, without letting the score get out of hand, to really wear out the line. By the end of that game, the line was absolutely exhausted. It’s why the Packers only allowed one drive of more than 15 yards in the first six drives of that game, but they finished allowing drives of 80, 77, 54 and 76 yards to end it.

5.) AC: FanDuel has the Bengals as 14.5-point road dogs this week. Do you think the Packers cover? Do you think Flacco can make some plays with the Bengals’ skill positions?

JM:
The Packers take their foot off the brakes far too often, so I honestly don’t think the Bengals backdoor cover is a bad move. When LaFleur is up multiple scores, he tries to pop the football and go home. I could 100% see something like a 28-14 game where the Bengals score late and Green Bay just sits on an early lead.

Our thanks to Justis Mosqueda for the insight heading into this week’s big game. Be sure to head over to Acme Packing Co. to get the other side of our conversation, too.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...on/177080/packers-5-questions-acme-packing-co
 
Steelers open as big favorites over Bengals

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Thursday night is, or at least should be, the game that Zac Taylor coaches for his job.

The Bengals cannot be 2-5 with this much money invested in their stars and keep Taylor as head coach after Thursday night if they lose to the Steelers, even though there’s no chance Taylor is fired this early, even if the Bengals somehow lost 100-3.

Heading into the game, Pittsburgh will be a big favorite. FanDuel Sportsbook has the Bengals as 5.5-point underdogs on Thursday night. Cincinnati’s moneyline is +230, while Pittsburgh’s is -280. The over/under on this game is 41.5.

The last time the Bengals hosted the Steelers in primetime at home was in 2020. Joe Burrow was injured, and they started their third quarterback that season in Ryan Finley. As heavy underdogs against an 11-2 Steelers team, with the Bengals at 2-10-1, the Bengals won that game 27-17. It’s the game where Vonn Bell leveled JuJu Smith-Schuster, in a game that has become known as “The Culture Game.”

Thursday Night Football. White Bengals. Steelers coming in. Season on the line. Taylor’s job should be on the line (even if it isn’t).

Here goes nothing.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/cincinn...ing-spread-thursday-night-football-week-7-tnf
 
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