:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/35299722/495446281.0.jpg)
When Bengals offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth speaks, people listen. It's not only because of his 6'7", 330-pound stature, either. The Pro Bowler has proven to be one of the best offensive tackles in team history and has carried the torch as a locker room leader.
The grizzled veteran joined Alex Marvez and Gil Brandt (the man who recently picked the Bengals to hit the skids in 2014) to talk about the state of the Bengals and their outlook for the upcoming year. They also asked for some insight from his two stints on HBO's "Hard Knocks".
#Bengals OT Andrew Whitworth on Hard Knocks: I think you just get used to the cameras being around...especially the 2nd time we did it.
— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) July 7, 2014
#Bengals OT Andrew Whitworth: We feel good about this season...we want more than just making the playoffs...it's gotta be better. #SXMNFL
— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) July 7, 2014
#Bengals OT Andrew Whitworth on Andy Dalton: One of best things about him is to ignore the outside noise...has a desire to be great. #SXMNFL
— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) July 7, 2014
The last comment is likely to be one of the biggest keys for the Bengals to make a postseason run. Obviously the words showing the desire to win the Bengals in the playoffs are a must, but the play on the field and the ability of the coaches to get the team ready in big games will be crucial.
Given Whitworth's position of leadership with the team, he'll likely be driving these desires home with his team. To use Whitworth's own words, for 2014 to be truly special, their play just has to be better.