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We can't sugarcoat it: this was one of the more frustrating Bengals losses in recent memory. While many in the media are calling it a spirited Cowboys victory, it was the Bengals who beat themselves on Sunday. Even so, there were players that made some under the radar contributions to help give Cincinnati a boost at critical times. Unfortunately, others didn't step up the way that we feel this group of Bengals did.
Perhaps no other Bengals player has been as hot over the past four games than running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Going into Sunday, Green-Ellis had three straight games with over 100 yards rushing and had a 40-plus yard run in each of those three contests. "The Law Firm" sniffed both milestones once again this past Sunday, generating 89 yards rushing, including a 38-yard scamper. He added three catches for 13 yards. The only reason that Green-Ellis is up for this award and not the MVP, is because of the limited amount of carries he received. He only toted the rock 12 times, but had an outstanding 7.4 yards per carry average.
Marvin Jones improved in his second career start and showed some of the explosiveness that the Bengals had been hoping from him. The first time he touched the ball, Jones took a reverse 37 yards and set his team up for their only touchdown of the day. He also added three catches for 45 yards as a complementary receiver to A.J. Green. Let's hope he continues to improve and begins to fins the end zone on some more of those explosive plays in the last few weeks of the season.
Geno Atkins had another great day for the defense and helped stifle DeMarco Murray and the Cowboys rushing offense. The Bengals most dependable defensive player had another sack, bringing his yearly total to 10.5. He also added two tackles for loss and numerous other pressures. The prize of the Bengals defense had his day overshadowed by the frustrating last-minute loss.
Who gets your vote for "The Unsung Hero of the Week Award" for Week 14?