:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/1221831/GYI0061820449.jpg)
Before you can preempt us in a showing of indifferent awesomeness, I wanted to point out that while Power Rankings are nothing more than a collection of teams ranked based on the author's subjective listing, they qualify as decent fodder, along with getting an idea of what other people's impressions are of the Bengals. Again, I know. Not much weight, but fun nonetheless.
+ SB Nation Power Rankings: 16th
We'll place them at 16 for now but they'll likely be rising in the next two weeks with games against the Bucs and Browns.
+ ESPN Power Rankings: 12th
The Bengals are winning with defense. But is it time to start worrying about QB Carson Palmer?
+ CBS Sports' Power Rankings: 9th
They aren't doing a lot on offense, but the defense has come up big the past two weeks. It's time to get the passing game, mainly Carson Palmer, cranked up.
+ Fox Sports' Power Rankings: 14th
If you have been watching veteran QB Carson Palmer so far, then you probably know that he hasn't been looking sharp. I can't put my finger on it, but despite the additions at receiver, Palmer doesn't look very comfortable behind center.
+ AOL Fan House Power Rankings: 13th
The Bengals really haven't impressed yet. They look shaky on offense, somewhat tough on defense, and they're finding ways to win games despite not playing really well. The offense probably needs to play better at some point, but it's working for now.
The theme is all the same. Good defensive play, Carson Palmer needs to step up and the team hasn't generally impressed anyone. Basically, aside from the Bengals generally ranked in the top-half in the league, all we learned is that others could be applying what Bengals fans have been saying this entire time.