Cincinnati Bengals Season Preview History
2011 CINCINNATI BENGALS PREVIEW:
The Cincinnati Bengals had one of the most disappointing seasons of any team last year in stumbling to a 4-12 record. As such, the team has a much different look this season, and will be looking to rebuild with a new look with head coach Marvin Lewis at the helm.
The biggest change will be who is under center. Former quarterback Carson Palmer likely won't be playing for Cincinnati, so the duties will fall on rookie Andy Dalton. Luckily for Dalton, he has several talented players surrounding him including rookie receiver A.J. Green and second-year man Jordan Shipley. Cedric Benson will handle the running duties, and is coming off his second consecutive 1,000-yard year.
The defense also has some question marks, but perhaps the most pressing issue is the squads front line. Tank Johnson is the only member with significant experience, and whether or not he can be effective remains to be seen. However, the linebacking corps has some talented players including Ray Maualuga. The secondary is led by Leon Hall, who has been one of the best cornerbacks in the league for the last several years.
2010 Cincinnati Bengals Football Preview:
The Cincinnati Bengals swept their division last year on the way to a solid regular season, but an early playoff exit left fans looking for more. This year, coach Marvin Lewis welcomes in a revamped offense that will attempt to take the next step toward earning a Super Bowl berth.
Perhaps the biggest change made this offseason was the acquisition of receiver Terrell Owens. Although Owens is in the twilight of his career and brings some personality issues with him, he is still one of the most talented players in the league and will provide quarterback Carson Palmer with another target to join Chad Ochocinco. Cincinnati relied heavily on the run last year, with Cedric Benson rushing for over 1,250 yards and six touchdowns.
The defense, which surprised some analysts last year by placing in the top 10 in the league in preventing both the run and pass, should be good again this year. Second-year linebacker Rey Maualuga will look to build off a solid rookie season, and cornerback Leon Hall, one of the most talented defensive backs in the NFL, had an impressive six interceptions last year.
The chances that the Bengals sweep their division again is a long shot as the Baltimore Ravens are expected to contend for the division crown, but seeing Cincinnati back in the postseason is likely.
2009 Cincinnati Bengals Football Preview:
The big question for the Cincinnati Bengals heading into 2009 is what name their star receiver will play under. Will he be Chad Johnson or Ocho Cinco? Whatever the case the Bengals will be counting on #85 and a new WR they picked up in free agency, Laveranues Coles. With #85, Coles, QB Carson Palmer and RB Cedric Benson the Cincy offense should be in pretty good shape in 2009. That means the key for the Bengals will be Coach Marvin Lewis inspiring his defense to get back in top form. If the D steps up, then look for Bengals fans to be rocking Paul Brown Stadium this year.