Not much to smile about today as a Bengals fan, eh? The team has come out flat for the past two weeks and we're all wondering what the identity of this team really is. Though they lost by ten points, the Bengals weren't without their share contributors who gave a strong effort and we're going to recognize that group of guys.
Though the defense allowed 27 points (seven came directly from an Andy Dalton "pick six"), there were two guys that stood out for this award on Sunday. The first was defensive end Michael Johnson. Though he didn't have a sack to add to his already impressive numbers, he did have an interception and two tackles. Johnson's interception not only led to stalling a good Browns drive, but also a big play touchdown by the offense and a 7-0 lead for Cincinnati. Ironically, the two interceptions that the Bengals have this year are from Johnson, a defensive end, and a safety--no cornerbacks have picked off a pass.
The other guy on defense that impressed us was Leon Hall. Though he barely made the stat column, sometimes that's a good thing for a cornerback. It wasn't so much the wide receivers that killed the Bengals all day (though Josh Gordon did catch a deep touchdown), it was more of death by a thousand cuts with tight ends and backs once again being the killer to the defense. Hall had a nice day with an assisted tackle and a pass breakup.
We ultimately decided to give the award to running back Cedric Peerman. He embodied the "next man up" mantra on the day and contributed--particularly in the passing game. With Bernard Scott out for the season and Brian Leonard sustaining a rib injury in the game, Peerman was pressed into extensive service on offense. He had one carry for seven yards and added eight catches for 78 yards. Though the stats were primarily in garbage time/catch-up mode, it still has to be noted that Peerman stepped in and filled a role adequately.
Who gets your vote for the "Unsung Hero of the Week" for week six?