More photos » by David Kohl - AP

20 days ago: Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis breaks into a smile after the Bengals scored against the Houston Texans in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/David Kohl)

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Carson Palmer is calling Sunday a must-win. Hasn't it seemed like we've called every Bengals game a must-win this year? Beating Denver was a must-win to prevent another eight-game losing streak out of the gate like last season. We've called Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Baltimore must-wins for their division implications. Now, we're calling the Bears a must-win. And this could be the best example of that.

If the Bengals beat the Bears Sunday, Cincinnati heads into the bye week with a 5-2 record, regaining some momentum, still controlling their own destiny. After that, the Bengals host Baltimore and travel to Pittsburgh in back-to-back weeks. If, and that's always a big if, Cincinnati wins the next three games, they control their own destiny. After that three-game stretch, the Bengals play the Raiders, Browns and Lions. Now, we're 10-2 with the Vikings, Chargers, Chiefs and Jets to close out the season. So maybe the Bears isn't just a must-win. Maybe the Bears is the first of three-straight must-win games if the Bengals are going to make a championship run.

On the other hand, if the Bengals lose Sunday, they head into the bye week with a 4-3 record, a two-game losing streak, no momentum with games against the Ravens and Steelers on tap. Now, suggesting that the Bengals will win the next three, I believe, is a bit hopeful. The Steelers and Ravens, looking to take control of the division, will make it very hard on the Bengals. With that thought in mind, the Bengals beating the Bears could be the difference between having a winning record and a losing record by November 16. And realistically, if the Bengals are going to survive the rest of the season, they need to be assured of a winning record in case Baltimore and Pittsburgh have their revenge.

Furthermore, the Bengals can't go into the bye week on a two-game losing streak and no momentum. So is Sunday a must-win? I think so. If we were in any other division, I think the urgency is reduced a tad. But we know what the Steelers and Ravens can do and the Bengals will have to do everything they can to keep themselves from falling too quickly by two teams that could easily win out their games in which they're not facing each other -- which we've seen both teams do before.

We've heard the expression before by teams that make incredible runs to the playoffs and I believe it applies right now. The Cincinnati Bengals playoffs starts this Sunday and a loss could mean elimination.

Defensive line injuries could take a toll. Will they step up? Even though Domata Peko didn't practice on Wednesday and Thursday, it appears that the team's best defensive tackle will go on Sunday after fully participating during Friday's practice. Surprisingly he's listed as probable.

 “Right now it’s feeling great,” Peko said. “I’m excited. I want to get out there and be with my dudes against Chicago but if it ain’t right I’m not going to go.”

This is great news at a time when the Bengals defensive line suddenly felt short-handed earlier this week. We lost Antwan Odom. Tank Johnson had missed two straight against Cleveland and Baltimore before returning against the Texans recording a season-high four tackles and a quarterback sack. Pat Sims was listed on the injury report this week with a bicept injury; he's also probable. What's worse is that due to illness, Jonathan Fanene missed practice on Thursday and Friday. Fanene, who's listed as questionable, could be giving way for rookie Michael Johnson. The Bengals also needed depth. After Odom went onto injured reserve, Cincinnati signed Orien Harris back.

With all the injuries and illnesses on the defensive line, guys like Robert Geathers, Michael Johnson, Tank Johnson and Pat Sims will have to step up.

They're calling it Benson Bowl. The local media is calling it "Benson Bowl." Benson isn't thinking of revenge, but he's motivated. Since joining the Cincinnati Bengals, Benson has found happiness. He feels accepted and says that his "Dreams are coming true." Benson also claims that the Bears were "blackballing" him when the Bears organization, from Benson's point of view, screwed him over.

"Even the Bengals told me all the things, that they would call and inquire about me and get nothing but negative things. Just that I didn't work hard, that I was I guess a prima donna or I didn't work hard on the field, just wasn't focused, just anything negative that they could say, it was said. I'm sure that contributed largely to me not getting picked up right away."

I like Benson a lot. He's a hard worker and gives the Bengals the best running back they've had since Rudi Johnson's prime. The Cedric Benson in Cincinnati isn't the same Cedric Benson in Chicago. However, you have to wonder why Benson is going off about what the Bears may or may have not done to Benson. Even though he probably felt insulted, I believe Benson should take some responsibility for what happened in Chicago. The off-the-field issues were a result of his own actions, not the Bears. From my understanding, Benson didn't like sitting behind Thomas Jones and older reports suggested that Benson made things just as tense in the lockerroom as others made it tense for him. So I'm not so sure if Benson is totally blameless about what happened in Chicago. But in truth, whatever actually happened while he was with the Bears, is meaningless now.

What does matter is that the Bengals need Benson to rebound after his season-low 44 yards rushing last week. And just for fun, here's our post on the day Benson was signed in 2008. Re-read some of your comments and tell me how he's changed minds.

Just how far away is Coffman from playing? Indirectly, Chase Coffman became a leading discussion. After back-to-back weeks of watching tight ends drop passes and fumble the football, the Bengals rookie tight end is still inactive. It will be telling if this week Coffman makes his debut, or if the Bengals are still refusing to reduce Daniel Coats' playing time. J.P. Foschi hasn't been bad, but he's not the tight end that the Bengals need. It's clear that the offensive philosophy was to use the tight ends more this year in the passing game, but it's not working out. Two fumbles by tight ends against Houston was one of several explanations to the Bengals loss. The dropped passes are ridiculous.

Why isn't he playing? What we hear is that Coffman isn't ready. He doesn't play special teams well and he's still struggling to become an NFL Tight End after a college career where he played more like a wide receiver.

Maybe Coffman will become something special in the Bengals offense. Time will only tell. The problem is that the Bengals are one game away from either fighting for the division after the bye week, or sinking. If the Bengals beat the Bears Sunday, they'll once again fight Baltimore and Pittsburgh for division supremacy. If the Bengals lose to the Bears, they run the risk of going 4-5 (quickly) if they don't beat Baltimore and Pittsburgh, which would end their chances of controlling their own destiny.

Of course, Coffman isn't the reason for all of that. But the Bengals desperately need better tight end play than what we saw the last two weeks if they're going to keep making a run.

And apparently the Bengals view it that way. It was reported earlier in the week that the Bengals attempted to trade for Dallas Cowboys tight end Martellus Bennett, which Dallas declined. Bennett isn't the type of tight end to fill the gap until Coffman is ready. He's the type of tight end that could become the future, which left the question, what about Coffman?

The Return of the Giant. Andre Smith's return, or actually making a debut, is happening. This week, Smith practiced on Wednesday, though it was only non-contact drills. On Thursday, Smith practiced limitedly, but had contact. On Friday, Smith practiced fully. Furthermore, Smith claims he dropped his weight to 330 pounds and most observers are saying he's "noticeably lighter."

All indications are, while still out this week against the Bears, that Smith will make his debut against the Baltimore Ravens on November 8 after the bye week. Unless Dennis Roland and Anthony Collins utterly fail against the Chicago Bears, it's unlikely that Smith starts against the Ravens. Knowing how the coaching staff has worked in the past, it seems more likely they'll ease Smith in during running downs in big packages, lining up at tight end, or weak-side tackle on big formations.

Something else needs to be observed here. When the Bengals rush the football to the right, they are actually one of the worst rushing offenses in the league. The following is a chart of the team's directional report on rushing plays by NFL Game Statistics and Information System.

Is there where we prove something? I've always agreed that Bengals offensive coordinator makes questionable calls. However, I always say that the players need to perform first and foremost. Last week was an example of an offense that lacked focus. Now, I'm going to make some people happy; or at least give them direction in their complaints.

As you saw in the chart above, the Bengals are clearly a better rushing offense to the left between Andrew Whitworth and the combination of Nate Livings and Evan Mathis at left guard. The issue here is that the Bengals are rushing the football outside the right guard more than rushing between the strength of their offensive line on the left. The next chart is broken down to three directions. Up the middle, which is between the two guards. And outside both guards on the left and right.

This has been one of those weeks that we've experienced so many times. We lost last week with an unbelievable, unlikely play. Some of us (aka, me), just can't let it go. It was discouraging, disheartening and worthy of a scowl at any unfortunate victims that passed me at work with that look that said, "oh, haha, your team lost like that. Oh, haha." Browns fans I crossed this week were much more sympathetic, if anything. Maybe there's this brotherhood that I've ignored. Two Ohio teams that are, once again, not projected to be a major player in the race for the playoffs. Coworkers and friends that are Steelers fans (aka, needlessly betraying loyalty to Ohio football because they were also born in Ohio but picked a great team on a list at five years old on which team to cheer for for the rest of their lives), mostly stayed away. Not sure if they were giggling or snickering because of the way the Bengals lost, I didn't mind the space. I don't personally know any Ravens fans, so no worries there.

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If you were to put together a Week in Review for this week, what would your lead story be? The Bengals conducted their first Organized Team Activities in which head coach Marvin Lewis declared the team's first-team offensive line. Were you surprised that Andrew Whitworth became the team's left tackle so quickly? No competition. It was like Lewis had already envisioned the team's offensive line -- likely heavily suggested from offensive line coach Paul Alexander and offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski -- and not only had a look at the personnel starting on the line, but clearly said to Geoff Hobson that this will be the offensive line for as long as he coaches. Then again, he may have long passed the midway point of his Bengals coaching career if he doesn't turn things around by the time his contract expires.

Either way, I'm very supportive of the Bengals and coaching staff declaring their offensive line right now. Maybe a player or two -- like Jonathan Luigs, Anthony Collins, Dan Santucci -- unseat Nate Livings, Kyle Cook or force Whitworth back to left guard. However, the fact the Bengals aren't willing to play musical chairs with their offensive line absolutely suggests a change in philosophy that's highlighted this entire offseason.

If setting the team's offensive line was the lead-in story this weekend, then the situation about our wide receivers was a close second. Yet, nothing during OTAs suggested that any "story" was prominent. Then Carson Palmer spoke.

"It's definitely a new look for the Bengals receiver corps but I couldn't be happier with the guys we've got," Palmer said. "T.J.'s (Houshmandzadeh) gone and Chad's pretty much gone, he hasn't been here, so we've got guys that want those two spots, guys that compete day in and day out, when we're out there on the field, running, conditioning and in the weight room lifting. They're guys that want to take over for those two spots. They look every bit capable of doing what we're going to ask them to do."

Has Palmer ever been so bold? Yes and no. He typically speaks with enough caution not bring attention to what he says. However, when he does speak, it comes from a foundation of truth. Both happened at the same time this week. And what he said was nothing more than matter of fact. Johnson isn't here. Henry is taking advantage of Johnson's absence. Furthermore, Henry does done everything he's had to do since given his redemption contract right before the season started last year. Are you cautious about trusting Henry? Sure. You have no reason not to be. Are you worried about him falling off the wagon (so to speak)? Not really. Not anymore. There's a difference between being cautious and worried. And Henry only has me thinking the former.

Does it really matter who a player's agent is? If you say no, then my counter-argument is Chad Johnson and Drew Rosenhaus. However, that's not the issue this week. Andre Smith took a hit last week when it was learned he'd be firing his second agent, Rick Smith, possibly in favor for his original agent Alvin Keels. People didn't like this. The team most of all. What would cause someone to fire his second agent? There is a theory. After Andre Smith performed so poorly during the combine, he fired Keels. The thinking is if Smith was associated with Keels, it would hurt his draft stock. So Smith hired Priority Sports to rehabilitate his draft stock. Once he was selected sixth by the Cincinnati Bengals, Smith decided to fire Priority Sports and, reportedly, bring Keels back to the fold.

As far as any of that goes for truth, Smith did fire Priority Sports. And they didn't react too well. By indirect extension, we wondered about this.

The best part of Memorial Day weekend. I believe Memorial Day is a critical day of remembrance, not only for America's soldiers that should be honored, but also America's history. Wars weren't just the protagonist that created the United States of America, but it defined us as the greatest, most powerful country in the world. No matter where your politics are, or how much pacifism lies in your heart, it's critical that we remember those that allowed us fortune of being Americans, living what only others can possibly dream.

With that said, another great thing during Memorial Day weekend is that the History Channel shows all of the episodes for Band of Brothers -- perhaps the greatest World War II non-documentary ever created. Great, great show.

More photos » by Al Behrman - AP

6 months ago: Newly-signed free agent Cincinnati Bengals safety Roy Williams answers questions with head coach Marvin Lewis, left, during a news conference at the Bengals NFL football stadium, Thursday, May 7, 2009, in Cincinnati. Williams had gone to five pro bowls during his seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

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This is this year's first Week in Review. This used to be a weekly thing back in 2006, somewhat in 2007. We totally eliminated it in 2008. We used this primarily for two things. A recap of the week (um, duh?) and a way to promote revised opinions after letting these "issues" sit in our stomachs for some time. This won't be a regular occurrence as of now, but after last week, it's time to run with one.

It wasn't one of our biggest stories this week, but it certainly introduced a lot of attention. WDR wrote a report that received a lot of play this week. From an unnamed high-level booster at UC, WDR claims that the Bengals are asking five-times the going rate against comparative markets in Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay that allows their college counterparts to play in an NFL stadium. The report also said that UC "offered to pay in full for an indoor practice facility located at PBS (to be used by UC and the Bengals) if the Bengals offer the University a competitive lease offer." A "major UC booster" added to the report on Lance McAlister's blog, saying "I can't tell you if the asking price for UC to play a game at PBS is five times the rate that other Big East Schools are paying at NFL stadiums. I can tell you that from 2002 when UC hosted Ohio State at PBS to now, it's a significantly different contract presentation from the Bengals.....much more aggressive on the Bengals part."

However, later in the week a Bengals executive told Lance that discussions were only preliminary and that the Bengals have been proactively reaching out to UC.

UC's deputy director of athletics, Bob Arkeilpane, denied WDR's report, saying "whoever is putting that information out there obviously didn't have the facts." WDR responds to Arkeilpane's denials saying that they don't believe him, questioning whether he'd go on record about negotiations -- which, in fairness to WDR, is very unusual during high-dollar negotiations.

In the end, it's he said, he said. I believe in the phrase where there's smoke, there's fire. I've heard that precede truth during rumor enough to know that I shouldn't totally discount everything. I've also never believed that we should take rumor and run with it as fact. That's why they call it rumor. However, it would be a disservice to ourselves to completely wave it away, if for any reason, good conversation fodder. Typically our role at CJ is to sit back and enjoy our popcorn while waiting for the third-side to every argument to emerge.

Paul Daugherty, while observing, offers his opinion that the newspaper industry is still needed, so we're not left to internet-based sites to be unchecked.

Speaking of the Bengals, the internet "report'' that the club had rejected a huge offer from UC to play some of its games at PBS was entirely wrong. I got several e-mails assailing the Bengals and demanding I write something. So I checked it out. The Enquirer's UC beat guy Bill Koch did the same. All wrong. That's why, in this age of "dying'' newspapers, you still need newspapers. Or at least people who are paid and trained to find facts, not type rumors.

I love newspapers. But my response to this, every time, is that there's a reason internet sites have largely disrupted the newspaper industry. I don't pretend to know the industry, but you have to acknowledge the trends and conclude that there is a reason. Bill Simmons writes a good impression on the latest issue of ESPN the Magazine, saying that beat writers, the middlemen, are quickly fading not just because of the internet, but because of the athletes. However, if people believe that sites like CJ are a disruption to beat writers, they have a severe misunderstanding of our role. We don't cover the beat; we highly depend on newspapers for the coverage of players and team. Without them, we'd have nothing but Jack Bauer stepping on crickets yelling "we're running out of time."

+ Oil Slick tweets that Chad Johnson is in the best shape of his career. Take caution with what he says (not like I need to advise you of that). It's not like Oil Slick, whose been working on finding trade partners for Johnson, will come out and say: Johnson is a fat slob with no motivation and will likely wait until the last possible second to get a procedure done that will slow regular season preparation, disrupt timing with the quarterback and saturate the lockerroom with pointless media attention. The best way to get paid as an agent in the NFL is talk your client up. On the other hand, if there's truth to this, the Bengals offense is instantly a big threat again. You can't dispute Johnson's talent and potential when he wants to play. At the same time, you can't dispute that his motivations and his will to perform at a high level is in question while he begs, pleads and "cries" about leaving Cincinnati. Again. Popcorn.

+ On Thursday, we threw a poll together asking what your impression was of the Bengals off-season. Of the 1,300-plus voters (you guys rock!), it broke down like this.

• 39% say it's the best off-season during the Marvin Lewis era.
• 34% say it's the best off-season they've seen in their lives.
• 19% say it's the best off-season during the Mike Brown era.
• 4% say the off-season is overblown
• 1% claimed to be a miserable person and hated internet polls.

+ The Bengals surprised everyone when they traded Orien Harris to the St. Louis Rams for running back Brian Leonard. No one really knows Leonard's role with the Bengals; though he claims he'll be the team's third-down running back. It would seem logical to conclude that the Bengals liked Leonard enough to actively seek a trade for him. If he keeps expectations, then we have no reason to believe he won't be with the team this year. On the other hand, the point that we only traded Harris, who wasn't likely to make the roster anyway, is a fair point to make.

+ We clarified a few points on Thursday about Quan Cosby on punt returns and why Levi Jones wouldn't have been traded, even if the Bengals tried harder.

+ I spent time recapping Wednesday, where the Bengals released Levi Jones and signed safety Roy Williams. Wednesday was hella-busy.

+ Tank Johnson's one-year deal is a veteran minimum $620,000. In other words, it's a "prove I belong in the NFL" deal with an uncapped year coming up next season.

+ Cornerback Rod Hood will (has) visit (visited) with the Bengals.

+ Chick Ludwig claims that Browns guard Eric Steinbach is in "deep trouble."

We used to do week in reviews all the time (usually Saturday mornings), but I started going away from doing them (because they were on Saturday mornings). However, sometimes we post things on here as frequently as Hollywood roles out bad movies and suffocating sequels. So we'll do one this week in case you missed any of the discussions.

Though nothing surprising on this week's injury report, it seems Rashad Jeanty's foot is keeping him questionable.

We reflected on James Walker's Five Fixes, and made five of our own.

It seems that the Bengals are cursed with hamstring injuries.

The team signed Chris Crocker in response to placing Dexter Jackson on Injured Reserve because of a... hamstring injury.

Corey Lynch went on Injured Reserve because of a bone injury.

There are several former Bengals players eligible for the Hall of Fame that were career leaders at their position at one time or another.

Who would have thought that the Bengals would have the better overall defense against the Jaguars? Who would have that the Jaguars would have the better overall offense against the Bengals? Primer.

Deadline for extending player contracts and dumping additional money against the cap to this season is fast closing.

IgnatiusJReilly takes a look at the draft, relative to the Bengals needs.

Inside the numbers: Rambling Stats... Cedric Benson's contributions

The 2008 Bengals are on-pace to being the worst team in franchise history (Houston recap)

Links and Notes

Monday Morning: We haven't hit rock bottom yet.
Monday Night: Even with a coaching change, Mike Brown would remain.
Wednesday Morning: Never "go against the Monster".
Thursday Afternoon: Players still confident on Lewis.
Friday Morning: Lewis speak on Bengals fans.

I had to wonder just how much people are willing to stick with the Bengals this year. Many are sick and tired of losing -- award for the most obvious statement in sports history. And in fact, this season, more than any other during the Marvin Lewis era, Bengals fans are wondering just how much this reflects a generation of Bengals football that fans would rather forget, or help motivate them to become bitter as hell. Either situation is not only justified and understood, but characteristic of human psychology. There are times that I want to go through the same rehearsed arguments, when I realize that sometimes we should just move on game-by-game and enjoy the season as best we can. It's not about tomorrow nor is it about next season -- those will come in time. It's about doing what we do best. Cheering the team on a weekly basis. That is, if you have the energy in reserves to accomplish such an act.

In the long run, Bengals football has absolutely no resolve forecasted. Many ponder the draft as a stepping stone -- an argument and a general feeling of hope cemented each season. In many cases, the draft doesn't assure any resolutions. This offseason will include some of the beefiest (depth of those available) free agents we've seen in years. Many star players may find themselves available in free agency simply because the powerhouses of the NFL can't keep everyone.

Does free agency matter as a Bengals fan? You have to wonder when the team gave Willie Anderson, Levi Jones and Bobbie Williams contract extensions when Eric Steinbach was already scratched out from the team's 2007 roster before the 2006 season even started. You have to wonder their big-picture thinking cutting Brian Simmons and letting Marcus Wilkins and Kevin Kaesviharn -- among others -- sign with other teams. While they certainly weren't superstars, they were positive contributors to the overall picture.

Either way, there really is no reason to believe this team will take the 2007 roster and reshape it to a form of competitive balance this team enjoyed in 2005. Not with this recent historical trends. Some part of me realizes there's a look in Marvin Lewis' eyes that demand a complete personnel overall. That, in my honest opinion, will be the only way this team will rebound towards progression. Otherwise, we'll be stuck in a cycle of regression -- something fans would just as well forget.

So back to my week-to-week, game-by-game, mind set. This Sunday. Who practiced, who didn't and who's out?

Marc Bulger is out. The Rams won't have cornerback Eric Bassey (knee) or tackle Rob Petitti (concussion). Quarterback Gus Frerotte (right shoulder) is doubtful while wide receiver Brandon Williams is questionable.

For the Bengals, Willie Anderson is sitting while Madieu Williams (thigh) is questionable missing an entire week of practice. Speaking of practice...

Cincinnati Bengals

St. Louis Rams

DNP - Did Not Participate in Practice
LP - Limited Participation in Practice
FP - Full Participation in Practice
IR - Placed on IR.

This week, Ryan Van Bibber (Rams blog) and I sat back and realized how much we relate as fans of our disappointed teams. Many of the same issues plaguing the Bengals are hurting the Rams. So instead of chatting about what to expect Sunday, we reflected our teams.

Josh: One of the more intriguing debates in Cincinnati, with the Rams, is the 2004 draft. If you remember, the Bengals gave their 24th pick to the Rams for a 26th pick and a 4th round pick (#127). The Bengals picked up Stacy Andrews -- currently the starting right tackle for the injured Willie Anderson -- for their 4th round pick and Chris Perry for their first pick. It's intriguing because of what we know now -- the Bengals were going to pick up a running back. Instead of picking up Steven Jackson, the Bengals wanted the second pick from the trade and decided on Chris Perry. His injuries are well noted as are Jackson's accomplishments in such a short period of time.

Ryan: That's kind of interesting that you bring that up. All year and the year before that and the year before that... critics have hammered the Rams for the lack of success through the draft; Jackson's one of very few players left from the Rams drafts since 1999. That trade's a good reminder that the team didn't totally throw away opportunities in the draft. The writing was on the wall that we would need an understudy for the great Marshall Faulk and Jackson was picked for that role. If only we had an offensive line to open more holes for him, we might have seen so much more out of him this season. I'm sure that would have made the memories that much better for Bengals fans, huh?

Still, I understand why the Bengals didn't feel the need to draft him then as Rudi Johnson emerged. How's Rudi doing nowadays? Does second fiddle status to Watson loom in his future?

Josh: There's so many unknowns with Bengals running backs. Kenny Watson is a true third down back. Blocks and receives exceptionally well. While he's playing well for the injured Rudi Johnson, he's not the feature back. On IR this season is Chris Perry and Kenny Irons. Perry, we know, is too fragile to become the feature back. Kenny Irons, the Auburn running back expected to become the feature back, shredded his knee early in preseason.

Rudi isn't well. In the offseason before 2006, Rudi decided to change his body and reduce his weight. It also significantly lowered his running power. His legs, once the size of trees, have slimmed. His body mass that benefited him between the tackles no longer exists. He's just about done. Speaking of which, has Jackson returned to 100%?

The weather Sunday is expected to have rain with temperatures around the mid-50s. I noted that the Rams, since 2004, are 8-15 outside.

Ryan: Jackson is as healthy as he's going to get this season, and it's safe to say that he is near 100% anyway. That silk wall of an o-line isn't making it any easier for him though.

Well, the home dome used to be a real advantage too, but the Rams needed five tries before they could get a win there. This is one season where the splits can't hide the general crappiness of the team.

Holt has 29 receptions for 285 and 1 TD in five games outdoors this season versus 43 receptions, 659 yards, and 5 TDs in 7 games under a roof this season. That, obviously, is a concern for the Rams, but Bennett and McMichael could factor heavier into the game plan. That is of course assuming there is some kind of cohesive game plan among the offensive geniuses running our team.

Which reminds me that the split I should really direct your attention to is the Rams' second half play. The Rams have led at the half in six games this season - no small feat in and of itself - and hung on to win three. Through all 12 games, we've been outscored 192-66 in the second half. A big part of that problem is the offense unable to maintain possession through a variety of reasons, turnovers, penalties, poor execution, etc. Inside or outside that's one area that needs to be addressed. Speaking of inconsistency, I saw that Football Outsiders was pretty critical of Palmer's week in, week out performance and cited his inability to make throws against Pittsburgh last week.

Josh: Palmer is having some issues right now stemming mostly from an ineffective rushing offense, a musical chairs offensive line and the lack of wide receiver depth. While Chris Henry was suspended, the Bengals didn't have that #3 guy to free up Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Palmer's game against Pittsburgh was a bad one. Add that game with the game three weeks ago against the Cardinals where he recorded a career-high four interceptions.

And it's not just those games. His supporting cast, lack thereof, has raised the pressure on Palmer's shoulders forcing him to make impossible throws -- many of which are on third-and-long putting him on pace for a career-high 20 interceptions this season. We learn about people during controversy and adversity. And while Palmer is one of the league's best quarterbacks, a gifted technician with a sound mind, a class act, he's been challenged from fans and the media to step up and win us these games -- supporting cast or not.

I know many people don't like the injury excuse for a team's futility. The Bengals have seen two running backs, five linebackers and a large contingent of their special teams players fall to injury. I'm sure Rams fans know injuries as well.

Ryan: The injuries have only added to the confusion Rams fans experience. Obviously, the decimated offensive line has hurt us quite a bit. I don't know that it's even worth looking up how many different line combos the Rams have used this season, close to a new one every week. The effects are showing up everywhere, most notably in the health of our quarterbacks. The really perplexing thing about the injuries has been the responses from the defense and the offense to key injuries. When Leonard Little went down for the season, I think we all pretty much assumed things were going to get ugly, but lo and behold, the defense had their best games of the season when Haslett used it as an opportunity to use a 3-4 set up with Carriker and the beast known as Will Witherspoon as attacking DEs. Conversely, there's been almost nothing but disappointment that the offense has failed to adapt in a similar fashion to the injuries. It's like two different teams.

It's amazing how much you find out about coaches in their response to injuries, isn't it?

Josh: The Bengals are a weird bunch. While a majority of their injuries has come from the defense, the Bengals offense is the one that's been the most inconsistent. Right now, the defense is playing a four-game stretch that we haven't seen in nearly six years. On offense, Carson Palmer, without much help around him, has turned in two of his career's worst performances in the past three games.

I have to admit, and I'm playing the role of Bengals-homer here, that if it weren't for the plane wreck that is the New Orleans Saints, I could make the case that the Cincinnati Bengals are the NFL's most disappointing team. While injuries played the biggest role, the Bengals just haven't been able to avoid adversity that comes with a losing team. And in a lot of ways, I think the Rams and their fans can relate.

As for Sunday, this game could be a fun one. There's no pressure on either team. No playoff implications. Both teams can unleash and have fun. If there's a silver lining for Sunday, it's games like this.

Ryan: Inconsistency? Disappointing? Unable to avoid adversity? I had to double check your email address to make sure you weren't a Rams writer too. I think we can definitely relate.

I do have a theory on injuries to offense and defensive players. First, let me state for the record, I'm no expert, so this is just my own musing and nothing more. However, I think defenses can cope with key injuries better than offenses. Defenses have the luxury of reshuffling their players and adjusting their lineups, something they do from possession to possession anyway. On the other side of the ball, the more players you lose, the more limited you are in what plays you can make. The obvious example is the quarter back, but the tattered rags the Rams have sewn together for an o-line this year make the point too. Of course, it's necessary to mention that the better the coach and the coordinator the better units adjust to injuries.

The Rams, many would argue, have actually gotten more conservative on offense in the wake of a throwaway season. The theory being that Linehan's concern about his job security has made wins even more precious, thus sending him into "don't lose" mode when they get the lead. Oh such dramatics! I am looking forward to this game, because it could be a real shoot out, the kind we Rams fans used to covet back in the Turf Show days. Then again, it might not.

Josh: Agree on the injury front. One or two players on offense go down to injury could have a larger impact than more defensive players going down. Good point.

Cincinnati fans and media have completely changed their perception about Marvin Lewis. Whereas he was considered a savior of sorts, he's now being questioned if he can ever get this team back to the playoffs. And while Mike Brown said that Marvin Lewis is safe, many fans are determined to see Lewis fired.

Is Linehan's future with the Rams pretty much done?

Ryan: In reading your site, I notice the offensive coordinator is taking some heat too.

Good question about Linehan's future. For most of the season, that's been a given, but now there's enough talk under the radar that he's saved himself with a few wins and a bevy of injury excuses. Personally, I think they need to move on, and the injury epidemic allows Linehan to save some face in his post-Rams job search. (There have already been rumors that he's a candidate for the Washington State vacancy.) Still, I'd put the odds on Linehan being fired (or some other more amicable arrangement) at 85%.

Josh: Since 2001, Bengals offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski has been the source of many frustrations. In recent seasons, that frustration includes, but not limited to, the lack of a balanced offense. Carson Palmer is a tremendous talent. In terms of technician and talent. He's truly in the top class of pocket quarterbacks with Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. While their supporting class is much better, the idea of a pass-only offense can not exist with any team other than the Patriots -- and that's because they have the league completely confused with their spread offense. Bratkowski's play calling has always been suspect because he employs a high-paced offense whereas he maybe should tone it down some. When the team falls behind early, he panics barely running the ball.

I have to ask. Watching Kurt Warner in Arizona, do you find yourself reminiscing? I only ask because the Rams were an amazing team several years ago -- if only for a few seasons. Back then, it seemed that they, like the Patriots today, were the class of the league. It's interesting to me. The 2001 Super Bowl, where the Patriots beat the Rams, was like a passing of the torch for NFL supremacy.

Ryan: Warner gave fans here plenty of headaches too. It seemed like he always dropped the ball or made bad passes at the worst possible time. The Rams are fine with Bulger at QB, it's the supporting cast of characters that have been the problem. His injury issues this year have all resulted from really, really poor blocking from the retreads on the offensive line in front of him. And the Rams front office has had a huge problem, since that fateful passing of the torch, with keeping their productive players and finding suitable replacements. Just look at the impact guys like London Fletcher or Grant Wistrom have had after leaving the Rams. I could rattle off a long list of names here, but those two sum it up nicely.

Predictions for Sunday's game?

Josh: If I were a betting man, I'd be poor as a dog. I think the Bengals offense will rebound but I'm still slightly concerned about the passing defense. I'm thinking shootout. You?

Ryan: Well, with Rams CB Tye Hill out, I'm less optimistic about our prospects. I think if Palmer and his receivers have any rhythm at all, the Bengals will win. I've predicted lots of shootouts this season only to see the Rams put up less than 20 points. I'm terrible at predictions.

Josh: And the Bengals defense has been playing better. Fortunately for Rams fans, the Bengals are playing at a high level of inconsistency.

This week we rambled some numbers

This week's primer against the Rams.

It feels like this season won't end. There's little to look forward to and wins are becoming scarce -- the Bengals have lost 10 of their past 13 games. The city of Cincinnati is revisiting the culture of losing again and no one is, nor should be, taking it well. Many find their targets of blame. Most point towards Mike Brown -- the favorite target taught to us as children. Many blame the coaches for being too predictable managing games poorly. Few point their fingers directly at the effort and pride of the players. Who knows. It is what it is. And the Bengals are 3-7 with the realization that the team's only anticipated story-line being a high pick in the NFL draft.

Did you know: Marvin Lewis has a career 38-36 record as head coach for the Cincinnati Bengals. It could be worse. San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Nolan has a career 13-29 record.

Did you know II: The Bengals have played 266 total regular season games since Paul Brown died on August 5, 1991. They are 93-173.

One player that sits in the fans crosshairs is Chad Johnson. Why, you ask? I mean, Chad's having a Chad Johnson like season. He's on pace for 95 receptions, a career-high 1,500 yards receiving and five touchdowns. His 19 20-yard-or-more receptions is more than any season, already, since recording 20 (career-high) in 2003. He's on pace to record 83 first down receptions -- a career high beating 2005's 74. He's catching 60% of all passes thrown his way -- second highest percentage of his career.

Stats at Football Outsiders.

He's recording several numbers that rival season-highs. So why do we go after Chad? Is it effort? I think that point is justified. Is he making an ass of himself on the sidelines with Palmer and Marvin? I think that point is also justified. Do the stats show critical drops on third down? No. Stats Inc., records Chad having five total drops this season -- Houshmandzadeh also has five. Somehow, that number feels a tad bit low.

Did you know: Dhani Jones leads the team with 3.5 stuffs -- tackles in the backfield or the line of scrimmage. Three players are tied for second most -- Bryan Robinson, John Thornton, Domata Peko.

Did you know II: Robert Geathers leads the team with 2.5 sacks.

Marking trends: Take Chris Henry's numbers and chart them for a full season: 96 receptions, 1,440 yards and eight touchdowns.

Even so, the side-story this season is the discussion whether Chad will be in Cincinnati next season. And to be fair, it wasn't discussed with any regularity until Chris Mortensen brought it up on ESPN's NFL pre-game show.

Also this week:

• We examined if Palmer's regression this season was just an aberration -- just a bad season. There are definitely other variables included with Palmer's season. But we focused just on our still-studly quarterback.
• We also examined why the Bengals can't run the ball anymore.
• Is it play calling? We charted trends.
• The team finally moved Robert Geathers back to defensive end against the Cardinals. He resumed his sack-master role by dropping Kurt Warner 1.5 times. Was that a bad move by the team or what by putting Geathers at LB?
• Bengals/Titans primer.
• A favorite topic at CincyJungle.com is debating the real necessity of the NFL's replay system. We reexamined.

If you were to ask a Bengals fan how far removed they are from that feeling of total disappointment in the 90s today, you'd get a reaction that would challenge the Age of Helplessism (those years). Many are making the Marvin Lewis has become the Dick LeBeau arguments. Like 2002, the Bengals have the worst scoring defense in the league. The difference between 2002 and 2007 is that this year's defense has given up two more points per game. This year, the Bengals are on pace to give up 488 points -- 32 points more than 2002.

Of course then you're asking, why the 2002 comparisons. Believe it or not, to me, that was the low point of the Bengals franchise. And it showed during a 30-3 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on ESPN's Sunday Night Football. And again, I wondered if we found another franchise low point after being embarrassed on Monday Night football against the Patriots and allowing Chad Pennington and J.P. Losman to have Pro Bowl caliber numbers while surrendering a touchdown pass to Marshawn Lynch.

It's now to the point that many Bengals fans expect the team to lose. And not in the waning moments of the game. Here's a brief template of games this season. Bengals defense allows other team to score, a lot, and the Bengals offense is stuck forcing plays that are just not there.

Is it injuries? Yes, of course. Many say that injuries is no excuse. I believe that if injuries weaken your talent, then it's justified to blame injuries for your horrible record.

Is it character and lack of leadership? Yes, of course. While this team has tons of talent, you don't see anyone stepping up to take control of any game. Mostly, it seems, just whining, shouting and admittance of being a horrible football team. Of all the money makers on this team, none are playing the role of team leader. That's been my reasoning for bringing up Palmer this year, which caused some people to go into a frenzy. But that argument could be used just as easily with the head coach.

What's worse is that many of my posts have shifted in attitude. Whereas I predicted the season, wearing my Willie Anderson jersey, to be well above .500, I know now that they are two losses away from another non-winning season. Two losses that will likely come this month.

Who's #3? Who is the Bengals third leading receiver? Glenn Holt with 14 receptions. Reggie Kelly is fourth with 11.

Neither team seemed intimidated by the spotlight - in fact, both teams brought their A-game.  I was personally struck by the contrast between the Bengals and the Colts/Patriots.
- TarZander on the differences between the Bengals and the success of the Colts and Patriots.

Lewis refuses to believe that he needs to alter anything he does. I understand that you want to stay true to what you think works. But, if you don't have the players, then you have to alter your approach to the players you have.
- Sledridge on Lewis' Monday Press Conference after 33-21 loss to the Bills.

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Now that Anthony Schlegel is out against the Ravens, the Bengals will have at linebacker:

1. Landon Johnson
2. Rashad Jeanty
3. Dhani Jones
4. Robert Geathers
5. Corey Mays

Also on that post, we listed the defensive players drafted by Marvin Lewis. Here's a quick summary. No defensive players drafted in 2003 remain. Of the three defenders drafted in 2005, only Jonathan Fanene is playing -- Pollack injured, Thurman suspended. Between the 2006 and 2007 drafts, only Johnathan Joseph currently starts without the assistance of another player injured -- Leon Hall started with Joseph injury and suspension.

The golden draft was 2004. Of the seven defenders drafted that year, four have started at least 10 games in their career with at least one start this season.

As soon as Henry was reinstated, he was caught with another accusation -- minimal reaction.

Earlier this week, I posted a piece, via Titans insider, that listed the available free agents on defense. Did you notice that eight defenders were once Bengals? They are (comment if I missed one):

1. Carl Powell
2. Dan Wilkinson
3. Kenderick Allen
4. Matthias Askew
5. Ed Hartwell
6. Lamont Thompson
7. Keiwan Ratliff
8. Tory James

Tells you how much our defenders are wanted by other teams.

After the Bengals lost 33-21 to the Bills, we analyzed the first half of the season | The Morning After.

The Ravens and Bengals are finding company competing for the most disappointing team in 2007. We previewed the game in this primer.