Having some wondering moments? Me too.

I wonder...

...what we should expect against the Dolphins.

I hate to sound confident -- they've burnt my expectations like a wild fire -- but there's no reason that the Bengals can't pull this out. At first, when the Dolphins were making a run at being the most defeated NFL team of all-time, I wasn't just scared of losing -- I was petrified. Like most of you, I didn't want another chapter of Bengals futility to remind us that our struggles are far from being distant.

Then again, the Bengals have played down to their competition all season. They lost to the 5-10 49ers -- who are currently riding a two-game winning streak winning three of their past five. They lost to the 7-8 Cardinals -- who are decent, but lost after the Bengals did a poor job protecting the football. The Bengals also lost to the 4-11 Chiefs, barely beat the 3-12 Jets and were smoked by the 7-8 Bills. These are teams that all of us expected the Bengals to win.

...will Kenny Irons be ready next season?

In a piece by Mark Curnutte, Irons feels like he's on target of "being medically cleared in time to participate in training camp next July."

...then what?

With the season Kenny Watson is having, it's hard to simply say to him, thanks, but you're going back to your old role. Most expect Rudi Johnson to be playing his final game of the season Sunday -- if he indeed plays. And sadly, you have to always have someone on the roster or practice squad to replace the oft-injured Chris Perry. So if Irons comes back, and he plays, what should we expect?

I think Watson has provided enough to be given a shot as the team's feature back. If Rudi Johnson leaves, that will give a three-man competition for the team's feature back.

...what about DeDe Dorsey?

To me, that all depends on Chris Perry. If the team keeps Perry, then I don't see Dorsey on the active roster. I also don't see Dorsey willing to sit on the practice squad waiting for Perry to get hurt. To keep Dorsey, the only thing the Bengals can do, with the talent at that position competing for playing time next season, is hope that another team doesn't pick him up.

However, that completely changes if the team decides to let Perry go out of fear of injury.

The Cincinnati Enquirer picked up the story about Bengals tickets this year being available and sold at less than face value. Even though the tickets are sold through ticket agencies (who buy games in bulk) and Ebay-like websites, the the two remaining home games (Rams, Browns) are still sell outs -- no television blackouts.

Speaking of color-outs. I work in Dayton, but travel from a city that was once a nice old small town in Mason. What a drive. If it wasn't for the snow piling up with ice pelts slamming into my car, it was the 12 cars off the road I counted. The several lanes shutdown on 75 south. Or the constant slush that imprints itself on my windshield forcing me to clear out my windshield washer fluid reservoir. Then, as you see in the primer, we're going to have a high of 66 degrees at gametime. Most people that have logged years of residency in Ohio typically say, "Don't like the weather, wait until tomorrow." There's no truer description of Ohio than that.

But the snow did bring Santa Claus out of the North Pole for foster children.

To say that I've had a crazy past few days would be a complete understatement. As typical with normal life, I've had some real curve balls thrown my way. A fire at my apartment complex forced general evacuations when Missouri and Oklahoma prepared to kickoff Saturday night around the time West Virginia missed a field goal against Pittsburgh. Where's the justice in that? Two great games with massive Ohio State implications are being played while I stood outside in the cold blustery wind for what seemed like a plane ride from New York to Los Angeles. Thankfully, my cousin showed up and kept me company while watching the show the firefighters put on like synchronized harmony. It was cool. Don't worry. We extinguished the fire long before the fire department showed up.

Eventually, we got back in and watched, perhaps, just perhaps, the greatest single day for the Ohio State Buckeyes while not even playing a down for two weeks -- a talking point from people that suggest Ohio State shouldn't be in. Nevermind the two losses by LSU and the two times they lost their #1 ranking. Nevermind that USC is playing great right now, with two losses in a conference where they too, don't have a conference championship game. It's all about schedule, brother. That's why Hawaii's perfect record isn't even in consideration for the National title. It seems to me that no matter who you put in the National Championship game, the reactions will be the same. It's the WRONG MATCH-UP. Perhaps. But they are not addressing the actual teams in the National Championship game. No. They are attacking the higher-ups in the sport for not having a playoff. Why have two polls and a computer determine rankings?

No, I'm not going into a BCS vs. Playoffs rant. I did take the opportunity to enjoy the simple tangent because I'm psyched as hell the Buckeyes will be back in the National Championship game to amend their disaster last season. And to be a life-long Buckeyes fan, I have to admit, it's pretty damned cool to see this again. Since 2002, the Buckeyes will have been in three National Championship games. That's unheard of in this day of parity college football.

Dude, you're still rambling about college football. I know. I tend to accidentally transform posts taking a tangent and making it the feature feature piece. Whereas the feature piece becomes the tangent. Trippy, yo. You're seeing how I operate. I'm thankful to have such a little voice in my head that tells me to talk about the Cincinnati Bengals. Today, we all need that. Something to move on and realize this team just isn't going anywhere. But in a positive manner that doesn't force us to raise our hands in disgust or become born-again binge drinkers.

I'm trying. Don't get me wrong. I want to rant about them but there's really nothing that can be said that hasn't been said. Our superstars routinely fail to show up against great teams. They flounder their opportunities in must-win games dating back to the last three games in 2006. Our wide receiver, quickly recognized as the greatest receiver in Bengals history, isn't supported by the fans and the team makes hints at selfishness that we've all determined was directed at Chad -- hey, we haven't been told to assume differently. And obviously the argument for greatest franchise wide receiver is completely based on perspectives. For instance, older fans have tremendous memories with a guy like Isaac Curtis or Eddie Brown or Tim McGee and definitely Dan Ross -- I know he's a tight end, but a tremendous receiver as tight end. Even more would appreciate Cris Collinsworth if it weren't for his perceived arrogance on the radio or television. See what I mean? Tangent! Then again, I'm just musing out loud... would that eliminate tangents? Is this the most times you've seen the word "tangent" in one spot?

Anyway, I've said all I'm going to say about what troubles this team. I was tricked into believing 2007 would repeat 2005 based on the hope that the 2006 injury bug was truly dead. The bug didn't die. It turned into a full-blown 10-foot insect with enough strength to enslave you in preparation for the return of Planet X with all its prophetical glory. I was tricked into believing that the team "turned" it around against Tennessee only to conclude that their injuries have hurt them just as much along with a quarterback that's still considered potentially good.

And as long as we're shot down in the dark by an increasingly perceived egomaniacal coach, an owner with football senses that are not only dull, but dead and superstar players that are called out, mysteriously, by their head coach as selfish, we really won't know. We can assume. But where does that get us? Mostly reactions that we don't know much about football.

The Return of the Bungles, II
OK, I'm using the phrase way too much to be a credible Bengals fan. I suppose we all say wacky things when wacky events take place on wacky days. I'm confident that I'm not alone. Tickets, previously hard to come by, aren't only available, but available below face value.

Through all the wacky stuff... here's evidence that things are wacky out of control.

Did you know: That Rudi Johnson and James Farrior are pretty close?

Speaking of the Rams.

VanRam is powering up with a health bar of irony. While both of their starting quarterbacks could be shelved this weekend, VanRam observes: "Don't forget that Fitzpatrick was traded for a late round draft pick (7th I believe) to none other than this week's opponent, the Bengals."

...if we're going to actually hear about Chad Johnson's celebration during rare domination.

In his weekly "observations" Mike Sando says:

I don't understand the comment. Palmer is widely regarded as one of the most talented quarterbacks playing in the NFL. Not to mention, he won the Pro Bowl MVP last year. Just saying, he gets recognized. But recognition has never been an issue with Palmer. Mike, take the time out of your day and watch Palmer at the press conference or simply read his quotes. He's unassuming and modest as hell. He genuinely wants to help the team win and if it was primarily his choice, he'd never talk to the media. Being recognized isn't something he seeks. Even so, he's still recognized as one of the top quarterbacks playing.

If you're going to complain about Palmer's recognition, then why does the company you work for headline Johnson's name rather than Palmer's in the post-game recap piece? Is this something internal? Perhaps it's simply a gaff, as they say -- and I'm not referring to the Gulf Atlantic Florida Fishing magazine. Like I said, I just didn't get the comment. But the point was driven. It really has nothing to do with Palmer. It has everything to do with Chad Johnson's celebration

I'm not going to make a stink about DEFENDING Chad's celebration. I figure the team is all that matters, not the misguided sensitivities of either the national or local media. And John Thornton, the one of the team's Captains, said:

Now, I'm assuming that it doesn't matter what the Captain -- not some ordinary fellow in the lockerroom -- approved. Why? Because we need something to point out that's fatally wrong with this team. Just observe this week. It'll be like Chad converted into a werewolf that's 50 times worse than Satan and rummaged through an orphanage. Seriously, just observe and you'll learn the definition of over-reaction. But as long as the word "if" applies -- like "if" the Bengals lost by the three points the Titans recorded after Chad's first touchdown as if HE were fully responsible for the Titans driving down the field for a field goal -- only to hindsight and backseat drivers, then we're alright.

I probably won't dig into the topic anymore -- the team won, that's all I care about. But let's take a few pictures taken by Jeff Swinger from the Cincinnati Enquirer on Chad's celebrations.

This picture actually shows the weight of Cincinnati lift off both Marvin and Chad's shoulders.

Since we think that, unless you want to avoid a double-negative that you could be preaching about Marvin applying towards Chad, we also want to celebrate Chad's celebration with his big offensive linemen.

Finally, here's a picture of Chad and Palmer celebrating. The best of all. Recognize!

...how a few minutes in a standard year can be that big of a difference.

I don't think we had a chance against the Bills. We ensured a loss no matter what we did. Instead, go back to the Arizona game. A game we really should have won. The team's 5-6 record -- sitting in the world of elves, Hobbits and Wizards -- would create a scenario that would have the Bengals breathing down the Browns' necks. The Browns have the second wild card spot. Even so, there's five games left this season. Could the Bengals accidentally fall into the playoffs? If they plan to, they have to beat Pittsburgh and Cleveland. The others -- St. Louis (PBS), at San Francisco and at Miami -- are very winnable games. When Chad Johnson told Peter King Sunday Night that the Bengals could run the table if they beat Pittsburgh, he wasn't kidding. But in order for the Bengals to have a shot, they must win out.

Being 4-7 means you need help. A lot of it. I don't expect to overtake the Steelers for the division, but a Wild Card after the Jacksonville Jaguars -- need I remind you, isn't the most consistent of teams in recent seasons -- is very realistic. Then you look at the Browns remaining schedule. They don't face anyone, currently, with a winning record. The "Home/Away" means their opponent's season record at either home or away.

Week	Opponent	Record	Home/Away
Week 13	@ Arizona	5-6	3-2
Week 14	@ NY Jets	2-9	2-4
Week 15	Buffalo	5-6	2-3
Week 16	@ Cincinnati	4-7	3-3
Week 17	San Francisco	3-8	2-4
		18-36

The one thing going for the Bengals is that Sunday is a remarkably nerve-wrecking (yes, wrecking) day for teams like the Browns clutching on that sixth playoff seed with their lives. Upsets are inevitable -- especially against teams that have plenty to prove but nothing to lose. What works against the Bengals? The Browns have a pretty fluff schedule remaining. Another thing going for the Bengals however is that the Browns still sport the league's worst defense. Here's hoping that bites them.

The Buffalo loss could have lasting affects also. The Bills (5-6) beat the Bengals and now own the tie-breaker. But their road during the season's remaining five games is much more difficult than the Browns.

Week	Opponent	Record	Home/Away
Week 13	@ Washington	5-6	3-2
Week 14	Miami	0-10	0-5
Week 15	@ Cleveland	7-4	5-1
Week 16	NY Giants	7-4	4-1
Week 17	@ Philadelphia	5-6	2-3
		24-30

Note: Washington, Philadelphia and New York (Giants) are 6-2 against the AFC. We need the Browns to beat the Bills. Well, in fact, we need everyone to beat the Bills and then everyone to beat the Browns. I understand there's other teams out there that are in the same boat as the Bengals. Such as Titans (6-5), Broncos (5-6) and Chiefs (4-7 and tie-breaker against Cincinnati). So, like I said, we need a lot of help. But it's there. Of course, then there's Pittsburgh...

...if Cincinnati will actually not be eliminated from the playoffs by Pittsburgh like the past two years.

Blitzburgh said, "Honestly, I'm a bit surprised by the decision. The Jaguars at the Colts seems like a more obvious choice, with 1st place on the line in the AFC South." There's truth to that. And if I were a casual football observer, with no major interests in either game, the Jags and Colts might be the more entertaining match-up. But the thing with flex scheduling is that networks feared NBC would cherry-pick their best games. So the league heavily consults with the networks to help everyone preserve their marquee games. No way in their right mind would CBS allow the Colts and Jaguars be moved off their networks. Fox has the Saints and Buccaneers, Giants and Bears, Seattle and Philadelphia and the Lions and Vikings (the team that smoked Eli Manning and the Giants). Irregardless, the Bengals and Steelers prove to be the more interesting match-up. Why?

There's history there. The Bengals, until redemption sought after 2005 Wild Card Game #1, were shutout of last year's playoffs after Santonio Holmes scored on a 67-yard pass -- more like 10-yard pass, missed tackle and open field. The loss eliminated the Bengals from the playoffs. In a way, the Steelers have been the one road block in the past two seasons for the Bengals post-season plans. They've eliminated us twice in the past two seasons.

The game itself might mean little if the Bengals win. If we lose, then we'll ensure the season will not finish above .500. If we win, then we drag out our playoff chances for one another week.

Monday's feature piece: Bengals recap on 21-33 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

We're half way through the season and man, we're rock bottom. On defense, it's simply lacking personnel. On offense, it's a bunch of things. So reviewing the midway point of the season, I wanted to run the "I wonder" series.

I wonder...

...if the Bengals turn the ball over on their final two possession in every game.

Against Cleveland, down by six (45-51) with :28 left in the game, Palmer, in shotgun, threw a deep pass down the right sidelines that was intercepted by Leigh Bodden at the Cleveland 27-yard line. Derek Anderson kneels. Bengals lose.

Down by 10 points (17-27) to the Chiefs, with 3:30 left in the game, the Bengals offense sets up with first-and-15 at the Kansas City 46-yard line. Palmer is intercepted by Bernard Pollard at the Kansas City 25-yard line. Bengals would score a field goal on their next possession after the Chiefs wiped out a bunch of time forcing the Bengals to score on two possessions. It didn't happen. After the field goal, the Bengals missed the onside and Damon Huard kneels. Bengals lose.

Down 21-24 with 1:00 left in the game at Seattle, the Bengals had a chance for a game-winning (at least tying) drive. Check that. No chance. Glenn Holt fumbles the kickoff return following the touchdown that gave the Seahawks the lead. Matt Hasselbeck kneels twice. Bengals lose.

The "didn't have a chance, but turned the ball over anyway" portion of this "wonder".

Already down 34-13 with 2:44 left in the game on the Cincinnati 41-yard line, Palmer is picked off by Randall Gay. Two Matt Cassel kneels and the Bengals lose.

Down 33-21 with :18 left against the Buffalo Bills, Palmer is picked off by Kiwaukee Thomas at the Buffalo 4-yard line. Kenny Watson fumbled at the Pittsburgh-16 yard line with 3:27 left in the game, down 24-13.

Even the win against the Baltimore Ravens, the Bengals, with a 27-20 lead and 4:54 left on the clock, Rudi Johnson fumbled on the Cincinnati 16-yard line. Thankfully, an offensive pass interference on Todd Heap, a stingy defensive front holding the Ravens on six plays inside the three-yard line and a Michael Myers interception, proved the turnover late equals losses, wrong. That only applied for that night, of course.

What are the on-pace numbers?

If the first half of the season is an indication of the second half, then here's where we're at -- beyond the obvious 4-12 record.

Carson Palmer will have 32 touchdowns against 20 interceptions and 4,386 yards passing. T.J. Houshmandzadeh will have 124 receptions and 20 receiving touchdowns. Chad Johnson will have 1,558 yards receiving -- which will, at least, make him happy. Kenny Watson will have 1,158 total yards and Skyler Green may break 100 punt return yards for the season. With kickoff returns included, Glenn Holt will have 2,056 total yards.

About sacks.

If Sunday's game was any indication, the Bengals defense has been horrible getting to the quarterback. If you examine the numbers, only one player on this defense has accounted for more than one sack... for the season.

Not Justin Smith, Robert Geathers, John Thornton, Domata Peko or Michael Myers -- each are credited with one. It's not Landon Johnson Madieu Williams, Lemar Marshall, Blue Adams or Ahmad Brooks -- each are credited with one.

The only Bengals defender credited with more than one sack this season is Nedu Ndukwe. The seventh-round rookie has two.

For the season, the Bengals have 12 team sacks. The Giants recorded 12 sacks in one game against the Philadelphia Eagles in week #4. Per unit. Defensive line: 5. Linebackers: 3. Secondary: 4. If you assume Geathers as a linebacker, then it's four sacks, per unit, across the board. See, that's why we give franchise contracts to Smith and Geathers.

About opposing quarterbacks and feature backs.

In the past few game recaps, I've been monitoring the numbers of opposing quarterbacks and feature backs. Here's that chart for both.

Quarterbacks.

Quarterback	Rating	Yards	TD	INT
Steve McNair	63.7	203	0	1
Derek Anderson	121.0	328	5	1
Matt Hasselbeck	88.6	248	3	2
Tom Brady	115.0	231	3	1
Damon Huard	112.1	265	2	0
Chad Pennington	111.2	272	3	1
Ben Roethlisberger	109.5	230	2	1
J.P. Losman	94.6	295	1	1
	102.7	2,072	19	8

Running backs

Running Back	Yards	Att.	TD	Long
Willis McGahee	77	19	0	13
Jamal Lewis	215	28	1	66
Shaun Alexander	100	21	0	22
Sam Morris	117	21	1	49
Larry Johnson	119	31	1	34
Thomas Jones	67	19	0	12
Willie Parker	126	22	1	32
Marshawn Lynch	153	29	1	56
	974	190	5

Biggest Disappointment.

There's no way anyone beats the disappointment like our defense. Injury and the ridiculous 32-game suspension on Odell Thurman hurt, badly. And in reality, I fail to see if any other team could recover after losing so much of their expected roster during training camp.

With all things considered, for me, this offense has been very disappointing... perhaps the most disappointing. I understand your confusion. First, let's think in terms of expectations. The Bengals offense has been developed, and financed, as the money-maker. The unit that would score tons of points and win games. The defense had enough players to keep opposing offenses from scoring over 30 points (wrong, Josh, wrong). This offense was assembled with long-term contracts -- the high cost of losing Eric Steinbach -- hoping that a decent run of continuity would provide the necessary shelter after defensive short-comings were never filled by evidence this season's bombardment of big plays.

My point was that this offense was the money-maker. While I know I'm in the minority on this one, most of you agree that this team could only win if the Bengals defense played well enough to keep the Bengals "in it". We expected the defense to be grossly horrible. And that's been fulfilled. So, you're not disappointed on that front. The Bengals offense has scored 30 points or more twice this season. They've also only scored 20 points or less in three games -- four games, total, in 2005.

But if the Bengals are forced to score every time, because the defense can't stop the opposing offense, then the offense's failures are under an unfair microscope.

That point is so justified that I agree with it. But I also think if the Bengals offense wouldn't go three-and-out as much as they do, putting the defense on the field wearing them out well before halftime, then the defense might even be better.

Perhaps a better conclusion is that neither unit (offense or defense) puts the other in a good position to succeed. It is, after all, a team sport. Right?

Nominations for biggest disappointment.

• Johnathan Joseph -- granted, the injury could be a big factor.
• Marvin White -- where is he?
• Robert Geathers -- where are the 10.5 sacks from 2006?
• Frostee Rucker and Jonathan Fanene -- constant disappointments that hold no use for this team.
• Roger Goodell. Had to get this in. Suspended Chris Henry twice for the same offenses committed before the Personal Conduct Policy. Taking revenue from NFL cities playing international games. Odell Thurman serving a 32-game suspension.
• Levi Jones. Abused against Kansas City, the biggest disappointment was his constant rumblings to the press about starting time and total lack of production earlier in the season -- although he's vastly improved.
• Attitude. The mopping and self-centered attitude with Chad Johnson is what you see from a five-year old. Even so, most of Cincinnati is close to turning on the city's superstar.

About Team MVP.

When a team goes 2-6, the acronym MVP, is completely useless and unqualified.

More questions this season.

• Has Madieu Williams done much of anything to warrant a discussion about whether to sign him or not? I'm only wondering because it could Madieu's best opportunity in his career for a big contract -- one of which the Bengals wouldn't likely be able to pay. His experience is about that time when most paydays are cashed.
• I like Justin Smith. Trust me. But if this team pays anything close to what they are this season on the franchise contact, then I give up. I'm done.
• Is Rudi Johnson playing the last season of his career in a Bengals uniform? With Kenny Watson and a returning Kenny Irons and hopefully a healthy Chris Perry, there doesn't seem room for an aging Rudi Johnson that's simply unproductive.

Coming up. The Bengals have to travel to Baltimore and Pittsburgh in two of the next four weeks. They will host Tennessee and Arizona in between then host St. Louis and Cleveland while traveling to San Francisco and Miami to close the season. My biggest fear? Losing to even worse teams like the Rams and Dolphins. I guess the battle for first draft pick can't be too harmful, can it?

About next season.

If the Bengals start planning out 2008, then one has to wonder which direction they'll go. I know they have half a season, but you can never plan too early. If the team expects to rebuild, then trading some talent away should be discussed. The draft picks received could help supplement the lost talent. Allowing free agents to go means more picks. Also, if there's a lockerroom disruption, then you're adding by subtracting, then adding a draft pick. Got it? Who to trade, etc.. I don't know. But planning ahead, now, isn't a bad option. In fact, that could be the one saving grace this organization has with its bitter fans close to jumping off the nearest cliff.

Will the team stick with the status quo and hope for pieces in the draft and free agency? Since it's November, and not March, it's impossible to forecast free agents. Teams will be given the opportunity to re-sign their best talent, if not using the franchise or transitional tags, making it impossible to see who will be available. And I usually depend on others to scout college talent for NFL potential. But can this team have another season where they keep everything together and risk having the same type of season like they're having this year? The fans would revolt.

About the coaches, next season.

I'm convinced that Marvin Lewis will stay. So debating about him leaving is irrelevant -- it won't happen. Sorry to crush your free speech, but you know, it is what it is. Not only did Brown give Lewis a vote of confidence, but historically, Brown is loyal to his head coaches to a fault. Chuck Bresnahan and Darrin Simmons, based on this year, should be gone while they'll likely hold onto Bob Bratkowski -- provided he doesn't find a more lucrative OC position. I also don't see Ken Zampese sticking around (unless he's promoted to OC) simply because he drew interest last year from several organizations. Ken's in his fifth season as quarterbacks coach. Time to bail for promotions else where.

Thoughts?

The best part about football after a demoralizing loss, is the next week. No longer is there time to reflect the Browns game. No longer is there constant revision of August projections. It's time to move on. So we're moving on.

But first, the Bengals cut one linebacker to sign another. Gone is Andre Frazier. New is Dhani Jones.

Season	Team	Tackles	Sacks	Int
2006	Eagles	76	0.5	0
2005	Eagles	70	0	1
2004	Eagles	71	0.5	1
2003	Giants	120	3.0	0
2002	Giants	82	0	1
2001	Giants	27	0	1
2000	Giants	0	0	0
		446	22	4

Terna Nande and Kevis Coley also worked out.

Want to know what happened to James Francis? How about Artrell Hawkins or Tory James?

Tab Perry is already out against Seattle However, Frostee Rucker, Antonio Chatman and Eric Ghiaciuc could play this weekend. Wednesday morning, Ahmad Brooks, Lemar Marshall, Nedu Ndukwe, Dexter Jackson, Eric Ghiaciuc and T.J. Houshmandzadeh are not practicing.

I have to say, I have some of the best readers -- all five you. Kudos. Most of the comments here and the emails -- bunches -- I've received have all had that calming criticism of the team rather than the over-reaction death to Spartacus theme. And no, the context of using Spartacus here really doesn't make sense. Unless you're apart of the Anti-Spartacus league, but that makes even less sense. So perhaps I just don't know. Who knows? I don't know. Surely the Bengals defense hasn't a clue. But hey, the Bengals only lost by six points. So there's some positive reinforcement for you. Right? Hello? Damn crickets.

This is basically a random musing post about the NFL, SB Nation and the Bengals.

Want to take a guess at who's tied for the lead for most receptions in the NFL? No. Not Chad Johnson. Tied with Randy Moss and Javon Walker, T.J. Houshmandzadeh has recorded 17 receptions for the season with only two teams left to finish week #2. And unless Antwaan Randle El has 12 receptions or Brian Westbrook has 11 receptions, the leaders remain heading into week #3. Chad with 16 receptions, is tied with Antonio Gates for fourth. Chad (304 yards) leads Randy Moss (288) for most receiving yards. Chad also leads the league with most 20+ yard plays (7) and most first down conversions (15). A staggering 93.8% of Chad's total receptions are first downs.

What you might not know, is what you should know, knowing that you know what's known. There were 13 100-yard receivers in week #2. They were

1. Chad Johnson (Bengals): 209 yards
2. Jerricho Cotchery (Jets): 165 yards
3. Steve Smith (Panthers): 153 yards
4. Braylon Edwards (Browns): 146 yards
5. Isaac Bruce (Rams): 145 yards
6. Joey Galloway (Bucs): 135 yards
7. Deion Branch (Seahawks): 122 yards
8. Andre Johnson (Texans): 120 yards
9. Roy Williams (Lions): 111 yards
10. Chris Chambers (Dolphins): 109 yards
11. Randy Moss (Patriots): 105 yards
12. Javon Walker (Broncos): 101 yards
13. Kellen Winslow (Browns): 100 yards

Four of the top five -- and five of the top seven -- receiving leaders played on teams that lost.

There were seven 100-yard rushers. They were:

1. Jamal Lewis (Ravens): 216 yards
2. LaMont Jordan (Raiders): 159 yards
3. Travis Henry (Broncos): 128 yards
4. Edgerrin James (Cards): 128 yards
5. Willie Parker (Steelers): 126 yards
6. Rudi Johnson (Bengals): 118 yards
7. Cedric Benson (Bears): 101 yards

Of all the 100-yard rushers, only two were on losing teams: Rudi and LaMont Jordan. So what you should know is that steroid pumped running back numbers are far more likely to win football games. The more you pass, the more likely you're losing.

Rushing yards by the fantasy kings. A quick note here. I was questioned for taking Peyton Manning #2 in the SB Nation draft. Hooray for 1 TD, 1 INT performance. Note II: Eric, you're welcome.

LaDainian Tomlinson: 68 total rushing yards (on 35 attempts)
Larry Johnson: 98 total rushing yards (on 26 attempts)
Steven Jackson: 118 total rushing yards (on 39 attempts)

There's 39 running backs with more yardage than Tomlinson -- last year's manly man. Combined, Tomlinson, Johnson and Jackson have 284 yards rushing. Travis Henry leads the NFL with 267 total rushing yards. Come to think of it, did either of them have a preseason snap?

Some comments I've read through the net and responses.

Why didn't Marvin Lewis challenge the play where Edwards was clearly short of the line? I too questioned this, at the time. The team had one available timeout and only used (and lost) one challenge. It was third-and-eight at the Cleveland-36. The Browns needed to reach the 44-yard line to convert the first down. If the Bengals prevented the conversion, the offense would have over three minutes for their final drive -- instead of one full minute.

Derek Anderson completed the pass to Braylon Edwards who turned upfield for, at best, seven yards. Edwards, stuffed by Miller and Dexter Jackson -- if the first down line used by CBS is any indicator, taking the assumption of where the ball in Edwards' hands -- never makes the first down marker. And I know, the CBS line isn't the be-all first down marker. So it could have been off. And that's not the only play of the game. But...

So why didn't Marvin challenge the spot?

As per the CBS crew, you can not challenge the spot of the ball if the play is ruled forward progress. If the ball carrier was down by contact, then it's challengeable. Plays ending with forward progress are not challengeable. You might not like the NFL rule, but there's nothing that Marvin Lewis could have done. Sometimes you just don't get the football to bounce your way.

Mine: My biggest question was not go for it on fourth-and-one at the Cleveland two-yard line? Armchair quarterback with perfect hindsight vision, check. On that drive, Rudi Johnson ran twice for 22 yards (14, 8). A touchdown would have given the Bengals a one-point lead. And think about it, if the Bengals scored a touchdown rather than a field goal the Bengals are only down by two points on their final drive. Didn't they know that? Why not go for it? What do you have to lose? The game?

Marvin Lewis take up defensive play calling? I seriously doubt it. Why would Lewis put his own name in the fire? Lewis still has the scapegoats with defensive coordinators keeping his hands clean. Furthermore, what could he bring to the table that he's not already demanding the coach bring?

Name calling. Team game, check. Got it. But Caleb Miller took a lot of bad first steps. He was routinely fooled on play action and counters. This is our middle linebacker. The former Frodo hair-styling hobbit just didn't get it done.

Fire, Fire, BRIMSTONE. Obviously firing Head Coach, Marvin Lewis, is the answer. It's so obvious. The line of head coaches out of a job are around the block. The same head coaches that are, well, out of a job for a REASON! And do we really want this front office to make franchise altering decisions? Think about it. Think about it long and hard.

The pro-Lewis faction will draw back on emotions. Remember, we once sucked. Marvin turned us into mediocre and even a playoff team. I think both are wrong. I think both should realize we are where we are and it is what it is. Lewis changed the complexion of this franchise and he's installed a defense that's suspect, at best.

What are others saying?

"The entire Cincinnati defense. For a multitude of sins. For allowing the moribund Browns to score 51 points. For allowing 41 points and 365 total yards in the first 39 minutes. For not touching Lewis on a 66-yard touchdown run. For making Anderson look better than Kenny Anderson. Just a ridiculous performance by a unit that will doom this playoff contender to also-random."
- Peter King

"It was not a hold. The defender was just overpowered."
- Ed Hochuli on Sunday Night football between the Pats and the Chargers. Only Hochuli could say such a thing considering he's bigger than half the linebackers in the league.

Around the NFL -- well, the SB Nation really.

• Steelers fans are pumped about their new coach.
• Patriots fans, supporting their team, have a chip on their shoulder. That only means they'll be supporting what I believe is the best team in the NFL. Especially after Sunday Night.
• Buffalo Rumblings say poor play-calling and ineffective quarterback play "hamstrung" the Bills.
• The Dolphins made too many mistakes to overcome the Cowboys and their rebounding defense.
• Even though losing 20-13 to the Ravens, NY Landing Strip thought the team fought back with a backup quarterback, Clemens playing well.
• While Brad thinks the Colts gift wrapped the game for the Titans, while Music City Miracles thinks his team is coming into their own challenging the Colts.
• The Texans start the season undefeated after week #2 for the first time in team history. However, Texans nation held their breath before hearing Andre Johnson's MRI wasn't so serious. The game against the Colts looks in doubt. The Panthers made many of the same mistakes they made in preseason.
• The Jags won a big one against the Falcons with a couple of rough road schedules coming up while The Falcoholic is embracing for the worst to come.
• John mocks the Raiders after squeezing by Oakland. And it seems to me that the Raiders are getting back into the business of pissing off a lot of AFC West teams.
• There's a QB controversy brewing in Kansas City after the Chiefs lost to the Bears 20-10.
• "No one wins more than Brett Favre" after a 35-13 win over the New York Giants who's pissed off as much as Bengals fans about their respective defenses.
• Anyone with a Rosie O'Donnell pictures -- especially THREE of them -- shouldn't be welcome with a link mention. However, Minnesota was one of my stomping grounds growing up and there's a few Scarlett Johansson pics, we can make exceptions You know? Gonzo calls the game one of the worst played while Sean's new hero is Jon Kitna, who believes in miracles.
• Saints are close to entering "Baghead time" while Bucs fans are PUMPED.
• Fooch is uneasy about the 49ers offense right now. Still, they're 2-0.
• The rest: Seahawks and Turf Show Times

Tonight: Redskins at Eagles.

There. Every NFL blog on SB Nation gets a mention. If I missed any, sorry. I probably closed my awesome Firefox Tabbed window by accident. Good reads.

Question. If Chad Johnson jumps into the Dawg Pound, will we see him again? Will he fall into an alternate dimension like Alessa Gillespe unable to break free back into our own realm? Will he return a changed man? Or will he pass along the total Bengals goodness to the Browns fans? Who knows.

Note to Browns fans: Please don't hurt him.

Is there a correlation between Bengals 2003 and Browns 2007?
Bengals | Browns history

Speaking of Dawg Pound...

Video gate

I don't have much input with New England's video gate. My first reaction when the story came out was, "what's the big deal?" How is this any different than any Patriots employee with binoculars charting signals that's lined up with the plays during films? Is that a lesser deal than video taping? Is the extreme reaction simply based on the use of technology or the ethics of the game? Wasn't it accepted that the other team would try to steal signals? Don't most coaches cover their mouths? Hasn't this been going on for years? My point is that the video part of it is only using technology. If the crime is stealing other coaches signals, then I'm sure it isn't just in the hands of the Patriots.

But like I said, it didn't affect us as much so I really don't have that much input. And I'm not going to waste my time wondering if the Bengals losses against the Patriots were a result of this.

Head Coach Marvin Lewis said they've "taken it to a different level" which implies the practice of stealing signs was common -- it was using video tape that was over the line.

Even Browns head coach Romeo Crennel said, "Everybody looks across the field to see if they can determine what the signals are. But that doesn't necessarily help you. Your guys still have to make the plays."

What do you think? Do you think the use of video tape was the straw that broke the camel's back? Or is this perfectly acceptable?

...how much we're going to welcome back Chris Henry -- and how much grief you're going to give me for supporting Henry.

I've heard overwhelming support that Tab Perry will be a suitable replacement for Chris Henry -- most of the talk coming before preseason game #1. Here's the word I forgot to mention. Permanently. How is this possible, you say. Well, most people are mostly using their 40-time -- one of the most meaningless statistics -- during combines over two years ago. Consider for a moment that Tab Perry, in 18 regular season games, has nine career receptions for 102 yards receiving. Also consider that 22% of Henry's total receptions result in touchdowns. Compare preseason numbers. Knowing he'd have the upper-hand to capture that #3 spot, Perry caught only five passes for 37 yards receiving with no scores. For comparison sake, Henry ranked 6th in the NFL with 14 preseason receptions, 4th in the NFL with 195 yards receiving with two scores. I support Perry as much as the next guy. But to say he's a permanent replacement to Chris Henry is just mad-crazy guy talk.

Tab Perry had one of the best kickoff returning single-seasons in franchise history (64 returns for 1,562 yards) in 2005. He could be the best kickoff returner since Lemar Parrish that this team has ever seen. But I don't think this team can replace a receiver with Henry's caliber and touchdown percentage. Chance? OK, I should hold judgment until we see him as the #3 receiver. See, I'm reasonable. For now.

...if Chris Perry will make a difference returning from PUP.

I'm not going to recap the struggles Chris Perry has fought against the Dark Lord of the Injured. It's documented enough times that if you google his name, 93% (totally made that up) of the total 2.6 million returns are related to injury. The question now is, what difference will he make when he returns?

First off, let's address the 600-pound "if" sitting in the middle of the room. If Perry comes back healthy, he could generate that spark he charged in 2005. A big threat out of the backfield and a guy that gives Rudi Johnson ample time to rest could completely skyrocket this offenses' potential. Look at it this way, only one other player on the entire team touched the football more than Chris Perry (112 touches) in 2005 -- Rudi Johnson, 360 touches.

You have to worry about something else. Rudi Johnson, for the past three seasons, has averaged 346 rush attempts. There will be a day, I believe soon, that his production will quickly drop like so many great running backs. Even some now wonder if we saw that in 2006. But I say we do our best to expand the potency of his career.

You almost get giddy thinking about a lineup with Chris Henry and Chris Perry on the field, at the same time.

...about Daniel Coats.

Yea, me too. I don't expect him to reach the level of Antonio Gates or Tony Gonzalez. Coats has the tools to be a great fit within the Bengals offense -- three receivers and a blocking tight end. If I were to put on my Nostradamus mask for a moment, he'd be the most natural heir to replace Reggie Kelly -- the best blocking tight end in the NFL and a classy guy.

...if you're worried as I am about the linebackers.

OK, we have our usual suspects -- Landon Johnson, Caleb Miller. Rashad Jeanty will miss the start of the season. Ahmad Brooks was, well, blah, at middle linebacker -- but may have found a home rushing the quarterback at the ends. Lemar Marshall could be good -- six tackles against Indy in preseason game #4. Andre Frazier had moments, but the bulk of his playing time will likely be on Special Teams. I honestly know little of Anthony Schlegel's NFL career -- but I do know he didn't play much on defense.

So, yea, to be a little worried about the linebackers would be justified. It will put more pressure on the defensive front to carry over their tremendous preseason effort (both run defense and pass rush) and the secondary to actually stop a pass.

...about the ups and downs about defensive units.

The linebackers aside, I think aspects of this defense has a high ceiling of potential. The secondary has two first round picks (Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph), a 2005 Pro Bowl 10-interception performer (Deltha O'Neal), two second round picks (Madieu Williams and Keiwan Ratliff) and a former Super Bowl MVP (Dexter Jackson). The talent is there. The results must follow or this pass defense will be as horrific as they were in 2006. And you didn't get the feeling that much was going to change during the preseason. (Yes, I know, a chance). God, did I just make a mention of "paper champions".

If preseason games are much in the way of forecasting, the defensive front could be this year's best unit on defense. The Bengals finished the preseason with the best rush defense in the NFL -- allowing 71.2 yards per game. The longest rush allowed went 16 yards (t-2nd best) and the defense forced five fumbles (3rd best). They allowed only 3.1 yards per rush (3rd best). The pass rush sacked the quarterback 13 times -- ranked 4th in the NFL.

On to the Down.

The Bengals pass defense allowed a league worst 304.0 yards passing per game. The 66 first down conversions against the past ranked second worst allowing 64.3% of all passes to be completed. The pass defense allowed 17 plays to go 20 yards or more (worst in the NFL). (sigh) You get the point. Rush defense, good. Pass rush, good. Pass defense, bad.

...why I've rarely mentioned Carson, Chad and T.J. lately.

Think of it this way. We all know that God exists so we don't need to always mention it.

Who knew that Reds left fielder was so sensitive regarding remarks from local (about to be national) radio host, Bill Cunningham?

Remember the episode of As Cincinnati Turns (the most dramatic city in America) when former Reds pitcher Danny Graves was booed off the field causing him to do his best Michael Vick impression (no, not that) flipping off a fan? Oddly enough, he was quickly let go. After stints with other MLB organizations, Graves finds himself pitching for the Long Island Ducks of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.

Is it me or are players publicly expressing a new level of ultra-sensitivity these days? Lately the Mike and Mike show dove into discussions about fans booing players after Carlos Zambrano (what's the right word, over-reacted?) was shelled against the Dodgers.

Zambrano, after the hothead calmed down, apologized for (what's the right word) over-reacting.

I understand that these guys are human. They react every bit as you and I would. It's in their nature to instinctively defend themselves. But come on, thicken the skin a little, eh? It's not like we're coming up with new "yo momma" jokes. They needn't react to fans for being booed. We know managers in baseball aren't quite the disciplinarians they used to be. Some are. I'm sure Lou is. A fan is empowered by the ticket he purchases. A fan invests countless hours and money into that product. Booing the team for playing horribly or lacking effort (see, Dunn) is perfectly acceptable and, god-forbid, expected. There are lines that should never be crossed. Personally insulting the guy or his family that sits in the stands, jumping onto the field/court -- unless you intercept a Brett Favre football -- and beating on a first base coach, inciting a riot with NBA players that constantly feel they're supposed to react if "dissed", or whatever. But booing a player, or an entire team, is an act in sports that should never disappear. Hell, even Congress does it in the form of jeers. And we all know that Congress is the beacon of our moral compass.

(there's even talk of banning booing at high school football games... good lord)

Believe it or not, my grammatical do-icky have prompt my credibility. No, truthishly. And to this day, I don't think of my grammer any gooder than a English 101 student. Then again, me don't claimed to journal or major words. Moving on...

Mike and Mike made the point that some players are exempt from being booed. Partially, I agree. I doubt any Bengals fan will consciously boo Carson Palmer after struggling against a division rival without that gut-wrenching feeling that you're conducting some sort of heresy.

But I also don't think booing is an art of hate. You could make the case that booing is similar with a wife's fiery because you forgot to take out the trash before the week-long vacation, or you didn't scrape the plate completely causing the dishwasher to clog, or saying the words "at the commercial" for any reason, or telling her that you had to go into work Saturday morning but took a detour to the local golf club with your buddies. She loves the hell out of you, but she's most definitely going to boo your ass.

Just realized: Don't feel insulted that I compared fans to wives. That was unintentional. But guys will know the point I'm making.

(Note: Bonds is completely void of this argument, BTW)

Hey, dude. Bengals?

T.J. Houshmandzadeh is a sexy-beast, yea baby yea!