So the Bengals are back on the right side of things after a tough, sloppy, and ugly win over division rival Baltimore. Yeah, they got some help from the refs, like the first game in Baltimore last year, but a win is a win. Ray Lewis should spend more time bitching at his offense instead of the refs, because for the third game in a row Joe Flacco couldn't figure out what the Bengals were doing defensively. One big thing they did was pressure. All game long. And it lead to 4 picks. Game over.
As bad as the D looked against New England, they looked as good against Baltimore. Sure, they gave up some plays and missed some tackles, but all in all a very good performance. And now they get the first of 2 really crappy teams with QB issues, including a Carolina team that's going with a first time starter in Jimmy Claussen. This defense should be licking their chops.
When Carolina has the ball-
They are going to face a ton of guys in the box. Carolina is as run-first as it gets, and you would be too if you had DeAngelo Williams and Johnathan Stewart, either of whom would start for the Bengals. Unfortunately for the Panthers, they can't pass, and if you can't pass, eventually teams will bring enough guys down to stop the run. Yes, they have WR Steve Smith, and he is still playing at a very high level. But as we saw last year when the Bengals had Chad (Johnson) and no one else, eventually teams roll coverage and make you go elsewhere. Dwayne Jarrett, Brandon Lafell and a cast of hot garbage have done nothing to help. No deep threats=8-9 Bengals in the box.
The best the Panthers can hope for is that this aggressive, pursuit based defense can open themselves up for some cutback runs. Much like Ray Rice showed a couple of times last week, if you can cut back and break a tackle, it's off to the races. Both Stewart and Williams have better top end speed than Rice and could break one. Missed tackles are the only way this defense allows ANYTHING to this very average offense. (Same is true of the passing game, where both of Steve Smith's TD's were on mid range passes broken by his dynamic RAC ability).
While I like Jimmy Claussen, this is a tough matchup for his debut. The Bengals have a very good secondary (even if Don't Call Me Pacman doesn't play), and while they only have one sack, this is a pass rush that consistently got to Joe Flacco. Let's see, they've played Tom Brady and Joe Flacco and now they get a rookie with little skill position help and a beat up offensive line. Yeah, I see big problems for the Panthers. The kid's going to have to play out of his mind to give them a shot and I just don't see him getting out of this one without at least 2 turnovers.
The formerly dominant offensive line for Carolina has not been so so far this season. They will have their hands full with an active Bengals front, especially on pass downs. Most impressive about the Baltimore game was how many different guys contributed to the rush. Odom, Geathers, Tank, Peko, Rucker, Geno Atkins, and even Pat Sims ALL made plays. If Carolina can't make some hay on first down, they are in deep trouble in second and third and long. Outside Smith, only TE Donta Rosario is consistent, though he is considered more of a possession guy than a big play guy. (He has had some bigger plays in the seam and is a big target). J Stewart and Mike Goodson are the pass catchers in this offense out of the backfield. For some unknown reason, they hardly throw to D Williams. Although they run the same basic plays for both Stewart and Williams, it's going to be a run if DW is in most of the time.
Injury wise the big ones are these: RT Jeff Otah (Carolina's best) is still not practicing and may miss another game. The Bengals will probably be without Adam Jones, Frostee Rucker and Jon Fanene. That would mean Trent Morgan, and probably Carlos Dunlap will play. This shouldn't even by a fair matchup even with the injuries.
When the Bengals have the ball-
They need to clean up these pre-snap penalties and stop killing their own drives. How many times have I bitched about Chad (Johnson) getting pre-snap penalties? And can we please get the freaking snap count down! That cost them a touchdown against Baltimore. AHHHHH! (While I'm on things I don't understand, why do the networks keep trying to give Jimmy Smits a series? Um, no one likes him. Random, I know). Ok, so clean it up will you. More like the New England game, less like the Ravens game.
So Ceddy Ced is pissing and moaning already about his lack of touches? Way to revert back to your Chicago days you overrated diva you. Funny how it was TO or even Chad that was supposed to be the first to start bitching...what's this, a dark horse takes that title? "We need to run it more" you say? Hard to do that when you're down 31-3 a-hole. And then you're playing Baltimore, and every time you get something going you get a penalty. Hard to run in 2nd and 8. Plus they're trying to get some flow to the passing game too, and I believe the feeling is that the running game is a constant they can always fall back on. If you can't pass in the NFL, you can't win, and this passing game is still not clicking. Shut up Cedric and be a freaking team guy for once. B Scott is better than you anyhow, he's just not big enough for 25 touches. Oh, and we'll be drafting your replacement next year.
But what about this matchup? How good, or bad, is this Carolina defense? Well, the short answer is I don't think anyone knows. They are not great, that we know. But I can't say they are bad either. They aren't as good as Baltimore or New England, that I will say. Against the run, they are only giving up 3 yards/carry and only 1TD but they've played the Giants and Bucs so far, and both teams lit them up through the air. To the tune of 5 TD's, including some long ones. They play aggressive, mostly man coverage, and that's a good thing for the Bengals. I'm confident the Bengals WR's and TE's can beat man coverage. It's zone they are still trying to get on the same page about. With young pass catchers, and TO trying to get the system down, I think that has more to do with Carson's struggles so far than anything else. (Yes, I'm an apologist, shut it). They will get there, but it takes reps Cedric. It takes reps. One thing's for sure: this team has a vertical threat back in it, and that will only help the run game.
The Oline has played okay so far this season, but it's time to start exerting it's will. Carolina has an athletic, but not particularly talented front that has had trouble pressuring the QB. Carolina, like Cincy, has 1 sack on the year, but it's from their MLB Dan Connor on a blitz. Same stat, different story. WLB Thomas Davis is still recovering from ACL surgery, so their best playmaker is new OLB Jon Beason. Beason moved positions this season and is still settling into that roll. Bottom line, the Bengals should be able to run against this front and have a decent day in protection.
The secondary is fast, and led by CB Chris Gamble. The athleticism is their, but the experience isn't as much. I think the mix of veteran WR's and young guys over the middle can take advantage this week. The LB's and Safeties in particular will find it tough to cover Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley. I think this defense can be exploited in a big way. Cincy's offense is relatively healthy and Carolina's best DLineman DE Tyler Brayton is nicked. Advantage Bengals.
Teams-
The Bengals have had some coverage problems and Carolina has a decent return game. Mike Goodson especially is good in the kick return game. Carolina also has a blocked punt already this season, so the Bengals can't give them one in that phase. The Nuge showed up huge against Baltimore, and I hate to even think how that game goes with last season's kicking and snapping. B Scott and Quan Cosby will again handle returns with A Jones out. B Scott came through again last week with a game changing return. I love this guy almost as much as Carson. Maybe more since I have his jersey. B Scott is the freaking man.
Prediction-
The Bengals put a solid beating on a team with bad ownership, a lame duck coach, a rookie QB and a general lack of talent. (The Bengals can relate to the bad ownership and lame duck coach parts). The Bengals showed once again against Baltimore that they are the more physical team, and Carolina (especially on D) is more movement and finesse. Let's show them some AFC North football and ground and pound and open up big play action passing opportunities. Vegas likes the Bengals by a paltry 3 or 3.5 depending on your book, but I like the good guys by closer to 10. Once again Vegas gives this team no respect. This Carolina team, and the Browns team they play next week, will both be picking in the top 5 come April. Time for a beat down.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
Bengals v. Ravens-Week Two
Let me say this about game 1, it's game 1....of 16. And it's over. Enough said.
Seriously, not to minimize the beat down the Bengals took at the hands of a much better prepared New England team, but it has little bearing on this weeks game. There were good and bad things about the game, but I think it's much more valuable to look at the two games against Baltimore last year than it is to look at either the Pats game or the Jets-Ravens game. Football is about matchups week to week. Momentum only takes you to the kickoff. And fortunately for Cincinnati, they've matched up well against Baltimore with #9 at the helm. To the tune of 8-3 since Carson Palmer took over as the starting QB.
Both teams have improved since last season, so this should be a very entertaining game. And it's important because it's the first divisional game and the Bengals could be down 2 games to Baltimore right out of the gate with a loss.
When Baltimore has the ball-
Baltimore has to establish the run better than they did last year vs. the Bengals, and better than they did last week against the Jets. The Ravens ran it 17 and 18 times last year for 55 and 82 yards respectively. Yes, the Ravens added receivers and they should be better passing than last season, but this offense goes through Ray Rice and the running game first and foremost.
In both games last season, the Bengals dominated the line of scrimmage against the Ravens. Baltimore can't get bullied like that again this year. The Ravens were not able to move the Jets at all, but the Pats were able to get some runs on the Bengals. With a mix of power runs, draws and screens, they have to get Rice 25 touches. If they can't keep the defense honest, they will not be able to exploit coverage the way the Pats did.
So the Ravens have better receivers, huh? Well the Bengals have better coverage guys than last year too. They also have better coverage guys, as a unit, then the Jets do. The Ravens exploited one on one coverage by an overrated Antonio Cromartie and a rookie in Kyle Wilson. Have fun with Jonathan Joseph and Adam Jones on the outside and Leon Hall and Chris Crocker in the middle of the field. It won't be so easy to get big plays. Expect the Bengals to take the same approach as they did against New England, and make the offense earn points with methodical drives. The weakness of the Bengals defense is in the underneath coverage of the linebackers and run support safety. If you can get Todd Heap (who's nicked up already), TJ and Ray Rice moving around in that first level, the matchup favors the offense. Dhani Jones cannot cover, and I'm tired of saying it every week. If Flacco sees #57 chasing his guy, he should throw it there every time. But outside that, this is a much more difficult secondary to throw on.
The pass rush is a different story. While last year they outsacked the Ravens 6-2, the Bengals struggle to get consistent pressure. Tom Brady carved them up, and Flacco can do the same if given a half hour to throw. The left side of the Ravens line is very solid, but I do think the right side can be exploited. Plan on seeing a lot of Geno Atkins at DT. John Fanene is questionable with a lingering hamstring injury, so we may even see rookie Carlos Dunlap this week. No matter who is in, the pressure has to be better, and when they do blitz, guys need to know their coverage assignments. Blown coverages lead to big plays. You also can't lose contain with Flacco, who is an underrated runner. Remember his pro debut in 2008? Marvin Lewis does.
When the Bengals have the ball-
The Bengals are going to want to follow the blueprint from last year and run it right at this run stuffing defense. Amazingly, the Bengals dominated this vaunted front seven last year to the tune of 146 and 142 rushing yards in both games. They bullied the bullies all season long, and are going to look to take out some frustrations from the Pats game on this front. If the Ravens can't stop the run, they're dead meat because this pass offense is far more potent than it was last year. Especially in the red zone, this Bengals offense is diverse and talented at every spot. I know I can't wait for the Raven defenders to meet Jermaine Gresham. They are not going to like have to defend this guy twice a year.
Both Cedric Benson and Bernard Scott had flashes in the Pats game, and the Bengals should have Brian Leonard back for this game. Benson did have the fumble that led to a Pats score, and that can't happen. Chad also had two fumbles last year vs. the Ravens, trying to do too much in the open field, and that can't happen either. If the Bengals outrush the Ravens, they will win. The fact that they can now throw effectively out of run formations makes them even more of a threat.
Did you know Ed Reed is out for this game? Yeah, that's a pretty big deal. A pick six and two forced fumbles against the Bengals last year, and a general thorn in the side of any offense. He, like Troy Polamalu, makes a good defense great. The Ravens are thin at corner as it is, and the matchup of Bengals skill guys vs. Ravens secondary is big time in favor of the Bengals. The best way to negate the pass rush, besides running it well, is to send a lot of skilled guys out in patterns that consistently beat single coverage. Jordan Shipley and Gresham showed some serious potential last week at attacking the middle of a defense. Gresham especially, needs to continue to learn the pro game, and avoid mistakes like the pick six last week. I think he will, and I believe he's going to be the top pass catching tight end in this division by mid-season. Mark it down. The pass offense can light you up from short, medium, or long range if #9 is given time. For anyone still doubting Carson Palmer, I'm here to tell you, he's back. All the way back and then some. He had 2 bad throws out of 50 attempts against a Bill Belichick defense, including some unreal throws. No worries at all about him.
The biggest concern I have about this team's offense is consistent pass protection, especially from the right side. Dennis Roland is a liability in pass coverage and Andre Smith can't get on the field is passing situations. Bobbie Williams is not good enough to overcome the issues outside. The Ravens only managed 1 sack in each game last year, and will have to do better. Haloti Ngata will find that both Nate Livings and Evan Mathis are better than Jets LG Matt Slausson, who he beat like a drum Monday night. Terrell Suggs was MIA all of last year, and the next best pass rusher, Jarrett Johnson, may not go with a bad back. Sergio Kindle is still out after his unfortunate sleep walking accident, so this team is paper thin at OLB/rush DE. If they don't stop the run and/or pressure Palmer, the only hope is that the Bengals implode with penalties and mistakes. Not totally out of the realm of possibility.
The Bengals had one penalty against the Pats. Remarkable. The Jets are still getting penalties thrown on them. That was insane. The Ravens had more penalties for more yards than the Bengals in both games last year, including some devastating late defensive penalties. I hate to say it, but penalties could play a big role again this year.
Run game, turnovers, big plays, third downs and penalties are the keys. Standard stuff. The Bengals had a clear advantage in all these last year and it's why they pretty much dominated the Ravens twice.
Special teams-
Hopefully the coverage teams of the Bengals learned from the two bad returns, one of which was a TD of course, and get their act together this week. (They did improve after the TD). The great returns of the preseason didn't translate to week 1, and coach Harbaugh is a special teams guy, so we'll see if they can do anything more this week. I do predict we'll finally see the punt return team, which is a good thing. Speaking of punt returns, Tom Zibbycowski (spelling phonetically for fun) really stunk it up last week and will have a very short leash this week. Chris Carr is solid as the kick return guy.
The Nuge made his presence felt with a 50 yarder vs. New England, and it was amazing to see a good snap, hold, and kick from that distance. That's a real weapon. The were some nice punts from Huber too, and field position is always important in a game like this. For Baltimore, former Cowboy Billy Cundiff beat out hated Shayne Graham as the Ravens kicker. Cundiff is okay, but I'll take the Nuge.
Prediction-
Both games were low scoring last year, with the Bengals winning 17-14 (with the Baltimore scores coming on a pick six and a weird broken tackle by Ray Rice where Leon Hall didn't finish the play) and 17-7. The Ravens really struggled to score against this defense, and I do expect a much better Bengal effort this week. Both offenses are better than last year, but I favor the Bengals offense and special teams. I'll say 23-20 Bengals. The score could be off, but I'll be shocked if the Bengals lose and go down 0-2. Shocked. I'd honestly be less shocked if the Bengals blew them out than if they lose. Seriously. Okay, I'm out of homer Kool-Aid...gotta mix up some more. Hey Kool-Aid....(cue sound of Fat Andre Smith breaking through my wall wearing no shirt)
Seriously, not to minimize the beat down the Bengals took at the hands of a much better prepared New England team, but it has little bearing on this weeks game. There were good and bad things about the game, but I think it's much more valuable to look at the two games against Baltimore last year than it is to look at either the Pats game or the Jets-Ravens game. Football is about matchups week to week. Momentum only takes you to the kickoff. And fortunately for Cincinnati, they've matched up well against Baltimore with #9 at the helm. To the tune of 8-3 since Carson Palmer took over as the starting QB.
Both teams have improved since last season, so this should be a very entertaining game. And it's important because it's the first divisional game and the Bengals could be down 2 games to Baltimore right out of the gate with a loss.
When Baltimore has the ball-
Baltimore has to establish the run better than they did last year vs. the Bengals, and better than they did last week against the Jets. The Ravens ran it 17 and 18 times last year for 55 and 82 yards respectively. Yes, the Ravens added receivers and they should be better passing than last season, but this offense goes through Ray Rice and the running game first and foremost.
In both games last season, the Bengals dominated the line of scrimmage against the Ravens. Baltimore can't get bullied like that again this year. The Ravens were not able to move the Jets at all, but the Pats were able to get some runs on the Bengals. With a mix of power runs, draws and screens, they have to get Rice 25 touches. If they can't keep the defense honest, they will not be able to exploit coverage the way the Pats did.
So the Ravens have better receivers, huh? Well the Bengals have better coverage guys than last year too. They also have better coverage guys, as a unit, then the Jets do. The Ravens exploited one on one coverage by an overrated Antonio Cromartie and a rookie in Kyle Wilson. Have fun with Jonathan Joseph and Adam Jones on the outside and Leon Hall and Chris Crocker in the middle of the field. It won't be so easy to get big plays. Expect the Bengals to take the same approach as they did against New England, and make the offense earn points with methodical drives. The weakness of the Bengals defense is in the underneath coverage of the linebackers and run support safety. If you can get Todd Heap (who's nicked up already), TJ and Ray Rice moving around in that first level, the matchup favors the offense. Dhani Jones cannot cover, and I'm tired of saying it every week. If Flacco sees #57 chasing his guy, he should throw it there every time. But outside that, this is a much more difficult secondary to throw on.
The pass rush is a different story. While last year they outsacked the Ravens 6-2, the Bengals struggle to get consistent pressure. Tom Brady carved them up, and Flacco can do the same if given a half hour to throw. The left side of the Ravens line is very solid, but I do think the right side can be exploited. Plan on seeing a lot of Geno Atkins at DT. John Fanene is questionable with a lingering hamstring injury, so we may even see rookie Carlos Dunlap this week. No matter who is in, the pressure has to be better, and when they do blitz, guys need to know their coverage assignments. Blown coverages lead to big plays. You also can't lose contain with Flacco, who is an underrated runner. Remember his pro debut in 2008? Marvin Lewis does.
When the Bengals have the ball-
The Bengals are going to want to follow the blueprint from last year and run it right at this run stuffing defense. Amazingly, the Bengals dominated this vaunted front seven last year to the tune of 146 and 142 rushing yards in both games. They bullied the bullies all season long, and are going to look to take out some frustrations from the Pats game on this front. If the Ravens can't stop the run, they're dead meat because this pass offense is far more potent than it was last year. Especially in the red zone, this Bengals offense is diverse and talented at every spot. I know I can't wait for the Raven defenders to meet Jermaine Gresham. They are not going to like have to defend this guy twice a year.
Both Cedric Benson and Bernard Scott had flashes in the Pats game, and the Bengals should have Brian Leonard back for this game. Benson did have the fumble that led to a Pats score, and that can't happen. Chad also had two fumbles last year vs. the Ravens, trying to do too much in the open field, and that can't happen either. If the Bengals outrush the Ravens, they will win. The fact that they can now throw effectively out of run formations makes them even more of a threat.
Did you know Ed Reed is out for this game? Yeah, that's a pretty big deal. A pick six and two forced fumbles against the Bengals last year, and a general thorn in the side of any offense. He, like Troy Polamalu, makes a good defense great. The Ravens are thin at corner as it is, and the matchup of Bengals skill guys vs. Ravens secondary is big time in favor of the Bengals. The best way to negate the pass rush, besides running it well, is to send a lot of skilled guys out in patterns that consistently beat single coverage. Jordan Shipley and Gresham showed some serious potential last week at attacking the middle of a defense. Gresham especially, needs to continue to learn the pro game, and avoid mistakes like the pick six last week. I think he will, and I believe he's going to be the top pass catching tight end in this division by mid-season. Mark it down. The pass offense can light you up from short, medium, or long range if #9 is given time. For anyone still doubting Carson Palmer, I'm here to tell you, he's back. All the way back and then some. He had 2 bad throws out of 50 attempts against a Bill Belichick defense, including some unreal throws. No worries at all about him.
The biggest concern I have about this team's offense is consistent pass protection, especially from the right side. Dennis Roland is a liability in pass coverage and Andre Smith can't get on the field is passing situations. Bobbie Williams is not good enough to overcome the issues outside. The Ravens only managed 1 sack in each game last year, and will have to do better. Haloti Ngata will find that both Nate Livings and Evan Mathis are better than Jets LG Matt Slausson, who he beat like a drum Monday night. Terrell Suggs was MIA all of last year, and the next best pass rusher, Jarrett Johnson, may not go with a bad back. Sergio Kindle is still out after his unfortunate sleep walking accident, so this team is paper thin at OLB/rush DE. If they don't stop the run and/or pressure Palmer, the only hope is that the Bengals implode with penalties and mistakes. Not totally out of the realm of possibility.
The Bengals had one penalty against the Pats. Remarkable. The Jets are still getting penalties thrown on them. That was insane. The Ravens had more penalties for more yards than the Bengals in both games last year, including some devastating late defensive penalties. I hate to say it, but penalties could play a big role again this year.
Run game, turnovers, big plays, third downs and penalties are the keys. Standard stuff. The Bengals had a clear advantage in all these last year and it's why they pretty much dominated the Ravens twice.
Special teams-
Hopefully the coverage teams of the Bengals learned from the two bad returns, one of which was a TD of course, and get their act together this week. (They did improve after the TD). The great returns of the preseason didn't translate to week 1, and coach Harbaugh is a special teams guy, so we'll see if they can do anything more this week. I do predict we'll finally see the punt return team, which is a good thing. Speaking of punt returns, Tom Zibbycowski (spelling phonetically for fun) really stunk it up last week and will have a very short leash this week. Chris Carr is solid as the kick return guy.
The Nuge made his presence felt with a 50 yarder vs. New England, and it was amazing to see a good snap, hold, and kick from that distance. That's a real weapon. The were some nice punts from Huber too, and field position is always important in a game like this. For Baltimore, former Cowboy Billy Cundiff beat out hated Shayne Graham as the Ravens kicker. Cundiff is okay, but I'll take the Nuge.
Prediction-
Both games were low scoring last year, with the Bengals winning 17-14 (with the Baltimore scores coming on a pick six and a weird broken tackle by Ray Rice where Leon Hall didn't finish the play) and 17-7. The Ravens really struggled to score against this defense, and I do expect a much better Bengal effort this week. Both offenses are better than last year, but I favor the Bengals offense and special teams. I'll say 23-20 Bengals. The score could be off, but I'll be shocked if the Bengals lose and go down 0-2. Shocked. I'd honestly be less shocked if the Bengals blew them out than if they lose. Seriously. Okay, I'm out of homer Kool-Aid...gotta mix up some more. Hey Kool-Aid....(cue sound of Fat Andre Smith breaking through my wall wearing no shirt)
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Interesting link about the Patriots defense vs. the Bengals
http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4683258/closer-look-at-defensive-wizardry
Nice breakdown of the formations and personnel the Pats used in the first half. Heard Vince Wilfork on the WEEI yesterday saying the Bengals did exactly what they expected from exactly the formations they expected. Awesome to get out schemed in the first game.
I love Marvin Lewis as a CEO, but I'm not a fan of his or his staff's gaming planning or in game adjustments.
Nice breakdown of the formations and personnel the Pats used in the first half. Heard Vince Wilfork on the WEEI yesterday saying the Bengals did exactly what they expected from exactly the formations they expected. Awesome to get out schemed in the first game.
I love Marvin Lewis as a CEO, but I'm not a fan of his or his staff's gaming planning or in game adjustments.
Monday, September 13, 2010
I hate being right....on this one.
Bengals offense sputtered, defense got no pressure, and special teams not only did help pick up the other units, but gave up a return touchdown. Add in a pick six, and the Bengals couldn't close within 14.
There were some silver linings, but the wounds are too fresh to go back over that now.....
There were some silver linings, but the wounds are too fresh to go back over that now.....
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Bengals v. Patriots-Week One
Nothing like starting the season out with a bang. The Bengals travel to Foxboro Sunday and match up with a Tom Brady led Patriots team that's beaten them the last two times they've played in the regular season. I have flashbacks of the last one in Cincy, when Justin Smith was mic'ed up saying that rushing Brady was like a 9-7 drill. That game, the Pats had their way running and throwing and the Bengals didn't get a hand on Brady. He's too good for that, so it's no surprise that getting some kind of pressure on Tom Terrific is the key to this game.
When the Pats have the ball-
We all know about Tom Brady. He's one of the top QB's in league, one of the top's in the history of the league. Aaron Rodgers said earlier this offseason that TB is THE best QB in the pocket, period. High praise from another elite QB, especially with guys like Manning and Brees to compare to. So Brady's good, so good that the Pats can beat with him throwing 25 times or 52 times. If you don't get in his face, and don't knock him around, you have next to no chance to beat this team. The Pats made the playoffs last year in spite of a lousy defense because of Brady.
Beyond Brady, the next names you automatically think of on this offense are Moss and Welker. Randy Moss is still one of the elite receivers in the NFL, and is perhaps the scariest deep threat in the game. Leon Hall, in base defense, will be on the outside and has struggled against bigger receivers (see Johnson, Andre and Calvin and Jackson, Vincent), and will certainly be the target for Moss and Brady. Safety help is a must, which one of the main reasons Welker has had what seems like 10,000 catches over the middle the last few years. All signs point to Welker being healthy after blowing out his ACL last season, and his matchup with Bengal defenders in the middle of the field is a concern. The Bengals, especially in base defense with D. Jones in the middle, have given up a lot of catches and yards in the center of the field the last two years. Brett Favre and the Vikings basically ate them up last year with backs and tight ends, and I've seen every team in the preseason go after the same area. (Did you see the Roscoe Parrish TD catch right in front of Dhani?). I love D. Jones but he doesn't have any speed, and teams know it.
Julian Edelman did a nice job filling in for the injured Welker last year, but has a foot injury of his own. He did practice Friday, so he may contribute as well, but the other receivers don't worry me. One interesting Bengal note is that starting RCB Leon Hall slides to the slot in nickel coverage, with Adam Jones moving to the outside. Not only is this a huge upgrade over Morgan Trent in the slot, it puts Jones in his more natural outside position. The Cowboys tried to use Jones in the slot a couple of years ago, and he was terrible. The Bengals coaching staff are putting guys in the best position to be successful.
The Pats got nothing out of the tight end position last year, so this year the entire unit is different. In are veteren Alge Crumpler, and rookies Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. Crumpler can't run anymore, but is a good run blocker and could still be a force in redzone. The rookies are both impressive, especially Gronkowski who is an all around beast. Expect plenty of two tight end sets, where the Pats are just as likely to throw as run. The linebackers and safety not on Moss' side will have to play well in coverage and guys have to come up to help tackle once the guys make the catch.
Bill Belichick is notorious for his running back by committee attitude, and this season is no different. Maroney, Taylor and Morris are the lead power backs, with Kevin Faulk returning as the pass catcher. None of the three lead backs is special, but they can all be effective if the offensive line is doing their part. Taylor is the only one that can really make a tackler miss, the others are more likely to try to run through a tackle as run around it. The Pats will go away from the run early if it isn't working, perhaps sooner than other teams will. Faulk is really an underrated player. With Moss, Welker and the rest attracting the attention of the defense, Faulk is often left one on one with a LB. His ability to extend drives was one of the most important reasons the Pats set all those offensive records in 2007.
The offensive line is not the 2007 Patriots offensive line however. Not only are they three years older (that's 21 in NFL years), but their best lineman LG Logan Mankins is holding out and will not play. RT Sebastian Vollmer had basically taken the LT position from Matt Light last season, and is the best active OLineman, but has switched to the right side because of Mankins' holdout and injury to Nick Kaczur. LT Matt Light, RG Stephen Neal and C Dan Koppen return but are no longer elite players, especially Light who has really struggled against speed rushers the last two years. LG Dan Connolly started three games last year and will be the least experienced of the group. I really see Antwan Odom and the other pass rushers on the defensive right as a key to this game. If they can beat Light, the Pats will have to leave a back or tight end in to help on that side, and that's one less receiver to worry about. The depth of the Bengals defense will have to be their best asset in this game, as they should be able to send wave after wave of fresh guys at this weakened line. If that happens, they have a very good chance to force Brady into turnovers. Michael Johnson and Rey Maualuga, I hope you guys wreak havoc Sunday, we'll need it. Unfortunately, preseason star DT Geno Atkins is nicked up and I don't know if he's going to go. He is a true pass rushing DT, and it's all hands on deck against Brady.
When the Bengals have the ball-
This isn't the Patriot Dynastic Defense of the Teddy Bruschi and Mike Vrabel, in fact, it isn't even close. The only hold over from those teams are NT Vince Wilfork and ROLB Tully Banta-Cain. Both of these guys are still good players (Banta-Cain led the team with 10 sacks), but outside of RMLB Jerod Mayo and FS Brandon Merriweather, this team is either lacking in talent or very young at the other spots. CB Leigh Bodden, the best cover guy on the team, is done for the year, so the secondary features three starters with one year or less of experience including rookie CB Devin McCourty. Talented, but inexperienced, and the Bengals must take advantage with the veteran receivers they have.
Carson Palmer is coming into his 8th season in the NFL, and has played against elite defenses with multiple schemes and looks twice each season in the division (except for the injury marred 2008 season), so whatever Bill Belichick game plans shouldn't be totally foreign. Besides, you can't game plan to overcome a lack of talent. If the Bengals don't shoot themselves in the foot, as they are more than prone to do, they should be able to light up this defense. The Pats have struggled to provide a consistent pass rush since they let go of Vrabel, so this sets up pretty well for Cincy.
Ceddy Ced Benson will again be a focal point of the offensive, and defensive, gameplanning. In the preseason, the Pats used both Wilfork and Gerard Warren (taking over for incumbent Ty Warren who's done for the year) at the NT. Surprisingly, teams were able to run at the right side effectively with either guy at the LDE position. With road graters Bobbie Williams, Dennis Roland, and Andre Smith on that side of the OLine, the Bengals should attack that side with impunity. Rookie LMLB Brandon Spikes will have to play very well to slow down the Bengals running attack. I assume slowing the run game has been Belichick's obsession all offseason, and he has the track record of taking away what you do best, so let's assume they can limit the run game.
The passing game of the Bengals should be dynamic unless they continue to stop themselves with penalties and miscues. Veteran receivers Chad (Johnson) and TO should be able to get open against Darius Butler and the young secondary of the Pats. There will be opportunities, and guys just have to make plays. TE Jermaine Gresham should be able to use his speed against slower Patriots LB's, especially Spikes if he is asked to cover. JG is a matchup problem for the safeties as well and should have a nice pro debut. Andre Caldwell is probably out with a groin injury, so Jordan Shipley will be making his first NFL start as well and will have a chance to shine right out of the gate. Bernard Scott will probably be the third down back with Brian Leonard out, and I love BScott however you get him the ball. He's good for at least one dynamic play a game. I love the matchup of the Bengals passing game vs. the Pats. Just avoid the stupid penalties.
The offensive line for the Bengals returns intact for 2010, with the only disappointment that Andre Smith has not established himself as the starter at RT. Last season, little was expected for this unit, but 2010 is different. Once again, this should be a physical run blocking unit, but I am concerned about the pass blocking of the right side. Dennis Roland especially was exposed at the end of 2009 and it's important that the pass blocking improve to give this offense the chance to put up big passing numbers. The Pats are not a good pass rushing team, but what rush they get comes from the offensive left. Andrew Whitworth is establishing himself as a Pro-Bowl caliber LT and I think he'll be up to stopping the likes of Tully Banta-Cain. The center of the line needs to take a page from the Saints-Vikings game on Thursday and push big Wilfork and Gerard Warren side to side, opening up cut back lanes. The implementation of a power zone blocking scheme and the statistical improvement of the Bengal run game in 2009 are no coincidence. Again, this is a favorable matchup for the Bengal offense. If they don't stop themselves.
Special teams-
The Bengals have the edge in the return and coverage games, and it's been a long time since they've looked this good on returns. Adam Jones especially looked fantastic in the preseason, and could be a big difference maker in this one.
The kicking game advantage goes to the Pats. Until I see it, I won't be able to shake the visions of last year's horrendous kicking.
Prediction-
I'd love to say the Bengals are going to win this game, especially considering how weak this Pats defense is, but I can't. I haven't seen a consistent enough pass rush out of this team, and I haven't seen them play a clean enough game offensively over the last year and change to state confidently that the Bengals will win. I hope I'm wrong, but I see Tom Brady throwing a late touchdown to beat the Bengals 27-23. Better luck next week hosting the Ravens.
When the Pats have the ball-
We all know about Tom Brady. He's one of the top QB's in league, one of the top's in the history of the league. Aaron Rodgers said earlier this offseason that TB is THE best QB in the pocket, period. High praise from another elite QB, especially with guys like Manning and Brees to compare to. So Brady's good, so good that the Pats can beat with him throwing 25 times or 52 times. If you don't get in his face, and don't knock him around, you have next to no chance to beat this team. The Pats made the playoffs last year in spite of a lousy defense because of Brady.
Beyond Brady, the next names you automatically think of on this offense are Moss and Welker. Randy Moss is still one of the elite receivers in the NFL, and is perhaps the scariest deep threat in the game. Leon Hall, in base defense, will be on the outside and has struggled against bigger receivers (see Johnson, Andre and Calvin and Jackson, Vincent), and will certainly be the target for Moss and Brady. Safety help is a must, which one of the main reasons Welker has had what seems like 10,000 catches over the middle the last few years. All signs point to Welker being healthy after blowing out his ACL last season, and his matchup with Bengal defenders in the middle of the field is a concern. The Bengals, especially in base defense with D. Jones in the middle, have given up a lot of catches and yards in the center of the field the last two years. Brett Favre and the Vikings basically ate them up last year with backs and tight ends, and I've seen every team in the preseason go after the same area. (Did you see the Roscoe Parrish TD catch right in front of Dhani?). I love D. Jones but he doesn't have any speed, and teams know it.
Julian Edelman did a nice job filling in for the injured Welker last year, but has a foot injury of his own. He did practice Friday, so he may contribute as well, but the other receivers don't worry me. One interesting Bengal note is that starting RCB Leon Hall slides to the slot in nickel coverage, with Adam Jones moving to the outside. Not only is this a huge upgrade over Morgan Trent in the slot, it puts Jones in his more natural outside position. The Cowboys tried to use Jones in the slot a couple of years ago, and he was terrible. The Bengals coaching staff are putting guys in the best position to be successful.
The Pats got nothing out of the tight end position last year, so this year the entire unit is different. In are veteren Alge Crumpler, and rookies Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. Crumpler can't run anymore, but is a good run blocker and could still be a force in redzone. The rookies are both impressive, especially Gronkowski who is an all around beast. Expect plenty of two tight end sets, where the Pats are just as likely to throw as run. The linebackers and safety not on Moss' side will have to play well in coverage and guys have to come up to help tackle once the guys make the catch.
Bill Belichick is notorious for his running back by committee attitude, and this season is no different. Maroney, Taylor and Morris are the lead power backs, with Kevin Faulk returning as the pass catcher. None of the three lead backs is special, but they can all be effective if the offensive line is doing their part. Taylor is the only one that can really make a tackler miss, the others are more likely to try to run through a tackle as run around it. The Pats will go away from the run early if it isn't working, perhaps sooner than other teams will. Faulk is really an underrated player. With Moss, Welker and the rest attracting the attention of the defense, Faulk is often left one on one with a LB. His ability to extend drives was one of the most important reasons the Pats set all those offensive records in 2007.
The offensive line is not the 2007 Patriots offensive line however. Not only are they three years older (that's 21 in NFL years), but their best lineman LG Logan Mankins is holding out and will not play. RT Sebastian Vollmer had basically taken the LT position from Matt Light last season, and is the best active OLineman, but has switched to the right side because of Mankins' holdout and injury to Nick Kaczur. LT Matt Light, RG Stephen Neal and C Dan Koppen return but are no longer elite players, especially Light who has really struggled against speed rushers the last two years. LG Dan Connolly started three games last year and will be the least experienced of the group. I really see Antwan Odom and the other pass rushers on the defensive right as a key to this game. If they can beat Light, the Pats will have to leave a back or tight end in to help on that side, and that's one less receiver to worry about. The depth of the Bengals defense will have to be their best asset in this game, as they should be able to send wave after wave of fresh guys at this weakened line. If that happens, they have a very good chance to force Brady into turnovers. Michael Johnson and Rey Maualuga, I hope you guys wreak havoc Sunday, we'll need it. Unfortunately, preseason star DT Geno Atkins is nicked up and I don't know if he's going to go. He is a true pass rushing DT, and it's all hands on deck against Brady.
When the Bengals have the ball-
This isn't the Patriot Dynastic Defense of the Teddy Bruschi and Mike Vrabel, in fact, it isn't even close. The only hold over from those teams are NT Vince Wilfork and ROLB Tully Banta-Cain. Both of these guys are still good players (Banta-Cain led the team with 10 sacks), but outside of RMLB Jerod Mayo and FS Brandon Merriweather, this team is either lacking in talent or very young at the other spots. CB Leigh Bodden, the best cover guy on the team, is done for the year, so the secondary features three starters with one year or less of experience including rookie CB Devin McCourty. Talented, but inexperienced, and the Bengals must take advantage with the veteran receivers they have.
Carson Palmer is coming into his 8th season in the NFL, and has played against elite defenses with multiple schemes and looks twice each season in the division (except for the injury marred 2008 season), so whatever Bill Belichick game plans shouldn't be totally foreign. Besides, you can't game plan to overcome a lack of talent. If the Bengals don't shoot themselves in the foot, as they are more than prone to do, they should be able to light up this defense. The Pats have struggled to provide a consistent pass rush since they let go of Vrabel, so this sets up pretty well for Cincy.
Ceddy Ced Benson will again be a focal point of the offensive, and defensive, gameplanning. In the preseason, the Pats used both Wilfork and Gerard Warren (taking over for incumbent Ty Warren who's done for the year) at the NT. Surprisingly, teams were able to run at the right side effectively with either guy at the LDE position. With road graters Bobbie Williams, Dennis Roland, and Andre Smith on that side of the OLine, the Bengals should attack that side with impunity. Rookie LMLB Brandon Spikes will have to play very well to slow down the Bengals running attack. I assume slowing the run game has been Belichick's obsession all offseason, and he has the track record of taking away what you do best, so let's assume they can limit the run game.
The passing game of the Bengals should be dynamic unless they continue to stop themselves with penalties and miscues. Veteran receivers Chad (Johnson) and TO should be able to get open against Darius Butler and the young secondary of the Pats. There will be opportunities, and guys just have to make plays. TE Jermaine Gresham should be able to use his speed against slower Patriots LB's, especially Spikes if he is asked to cover. JG is a matchup problem for the safeties as well and should have a nice pro debut. Andre Caldwell is probably out with a groin injury, so Jordan Shipley will be making his first NFL start as well and will have a chance to shine right out of the gate. Bernard Scott will probably be the third down back with Brian Leonard out, and I love BScott however you get him the ball. He's good for at least one dynamic play a game. I love the matchup of the Bengals passing game vs. the Pats. Just avoid the stupid penalties.
The offensive line for the Bengals returns intact for 2010, with the only disappointment that Andre Smith has not established himself as the starter at RT. Last season, little was expected for this unit, but 2010 is different. Once again, this should be a physical run blocking unit, but I am concerned about the pass blocking of the right side. Dennis Roland especially was exposed at the end of 2009 and it's important that the pass blocking improve to give this offense the chance to put up big passing numbers. The Pats are not a good pass rushing team, but what rush they get comes from the offensive left. Andrew Whitworth is establishing himself as a Pro-Bowl caliber LT and I think he'll be up to stopping the likes of Tully Banta-Cain. The center of the line needs to take a page from the Saints-Vikings game on Thursday and push big Wilfork and Gerard Warren side to side, opening up cut back lanes. The implementation of a power zone blocking scheme and the statistical improvement of the Bengal run game in 2009 are no coincidence. Again, this is a favorable matchup for the Bengal offense. If they don't stop themselves.
Special teams-
The Bengals have the edge in the return and coverage games, and it's been a long time since they've looked this good on returns. Adam Jones especially looked fantastic in the preseason, and could be a big difference maker in this one.
The kicking game advantage goes to the Pats. Until I see it, I won't be able to shake the visions of last year's horrendous kicking.
Prediction-
I'd love to say the Bengals are going to win this game, especially considering how weak this Pats defense is, but I can't. I haven't seen a consistent enough pass rush out of this team, and I haven't seen them play a clean enough game offensively over the last year and change to state confidently that the Bengals will win. I hope I'm wrong, but I see Tom Brady throwing a late touchdown to beat the Bengals 27-23. Better luck next week hosting the Ravens.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Ohio State's going to lose to this F'in guy?
I think not. Eazy-E just rolled over in his grave. Commitment to Excellence my arse.At least Jacory covered his nipples.
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