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When the Bengals lose a lopsided game, as rare as it has been over the past handful of years, it makes the weekly award posts difficult to create. Sure, certain pats on the back could be given to players, but the 25-11 loss to the Buccaneers was basically a total team failure.
Still, we have some decent MVP candidates and a few strong nominees for the behind-the-scenes nod, known as the "Unsung Hero of the Week" award. Cast your vote and sound off on who you chose as your selection this week!
DB Josh Shaw: It was a bit more of an up-and-down evening for the rookie as compared to last week, but he still flashed his physicality. He had a pass break-up and five tackles on a night when the secondary was abused.
S Shawn Williams: Again, it feels weird to point out another player in the secondary when it was a rough night for so many in the group, but, Williams looked much better this week than last. He had four total tackles and a half-sack on the night.
K Tom Obarski: You have to give the undrafted guy credit--he's making a decent showing while Mike Nugent is nursing a hamstring injury. Obarski hit a 37-yarder, making him 4-for-5 so far in the preseason, including a 46-yarder in the opener.
WR Jake Kumerow: After grabbing just one catch for four yards against the Giants, Kumerow became the go-to guy for AJ McCarron at the end of the game. He was particularly effective on slants, as he was able to use his big body to get in front of the defender and make his grabs. He finished with three catches for 42 yards and was the team's leading receiver.
TE Tyler Kroft: The rookie had the opportunity to make his first NFL catches on Monday night, hauling in two for 20 yards. They weren't gigantic plays, but it was nice to see the backup tight end able to make plays in the passing game and settle things down when they weren't going right most of the evening.