Why The Bengals Are Finally Resembling A Model Franchise

Anyone tired of hearing the stale Bengal criminal jokes? Luckily the jokes are slowly but surely dying down. The Detroit Lions have emerged as the punch-line for many of the jokes this summer. Not only have Bengal fans realized that this current team is much different from the 2006 version, but the media is starting to pay attention too. Steve Wyche, from NFL.com,recently wrote a piece that praised the Bengals and their transformation.

Wyche explained that many of the incidents that occurred this off-season, like the Rey Maualuga arrest, would be considered minor to what the Bengals have been known for in previous years. He also mentions that the talent in Cincinnati on both sides of the ball is greater than it has been in recent years. It all starts with Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. Both Dalton and Green seem to have great character, something that the Bengals have focused on during the past couple drafts. Wyche mentions veteran leader Andrew Whitworth, one of the most reliable offensive tackles in the league. Head coach Marvin Lewis preaches reliability, something they hope new back BenJarvus Green-Ellis gives them. Wyche is a believer in Green-Ellis, calling him a "smart and grinding" running back. He expects the "Law Firm" to ease the loss of Cedric Benson.

The writer also brings up a great question that most Bengals fans are sure to be thinking. Do the Bengals retain their positive vibe this year? Or do the Bengals become everyone's favorite punch-line again? The Bengals franchise seems to be doing what is necessary to win games at a consistent level. Even if they revert back to previous states of irrelevancy, the current effort is enough for Bengal fans to be excited.