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There were two things that emerged from the Bengals defense Tuesday out of their first practice on a post-bye landscape that has offered a second chance at the AFC North title. Defensive coordinator Paul Guenther likes the way his guys responded to his bye week decree that he’s shaking up things with competition from the young players, but at the same time the locker room embraced the return of veteran defensive lineman Wallace Gilberry.
Colin Kaepernick has been all over the media this season, but not for his play on the field. Kaepernick started the season injured, and behind Blaine Gabbert on the official depth chart. That didn’t stop him from making headlines, as Kaepernick was the first NFL player to refuse to stand for the National Anthem. His actions led to speculation that he could be cut from the roster, or just told to stay home for the rest of the season.
This week Paul Dehner Jr. and Jim Owczarski discuss changes on the way with the Bengals failing defense, go behind the scenes of the trip to London and the potential of winning the AFC North. Plus, hear from defensive coordinator Paul Guenther on impending changes and Jim on people walking in the street.
NFL power rankings: Bengals' next opponent climbs to No. 9
The Bengals' upcoming opponent, the New York Giants, jumped eight spots from No. 17 to No. 9 in the latest USA TODAY Sports NFL power rankings following their 28-23 win against the Eagles on Sunday. The Bengals dropped one spot to No. 16 after their bye week.
Forecasting Bengals defensive changes
In the immediate aftermath of the tie with Washington, Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Paul Guenther put his group on notice that he was looking to make some changes to spark a group that will come out of its bye week as the No. 25 ranked unit in the league.
Bengals defenders react to call for changes
The salvo was sent during the bye week to a defense wallowing at No. 25 overall in yards allowed and tied for 19th in points allowed per game. Defensive coordinator Paul Guenther went to the tape during the bye week to watch every snap from every situation this season searching for answers to what ails his group.
Bengals' midseason grade: Just average through eight games
Here’s a look at the first half of the season for the Cincinnati Bengals (3-4-1) and a preview of what to expect in the second half
Cincinnati Bengals CB Adam Jones praises New York Giants WR Odell Beckham Jr.
It took awhile, but Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Adam Jones can now be counted among the believers in the ability of New York Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr.
Bengals have missed somes chances, but AFC North remains wide open
That's easy to do in some divisions, but the AFC North remains muddled at the halfway point. The Cincinnati Bengals (3-4-1), Pittsburgh Steelers (4-4) and Baltimore Ravens (4-4) all have a shot at the division title. The only sure thing is that the Cleveland Browns (0-9), will be staying home in January for yet another season.
Doc: Let's take a knee, America
Some of sports' best behavior happens during its worst moments. On Saturday night, an Ohio State defender tackled Nebraska quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. near the sideline. Armstrong’s head slammed to the ground and bounced up half a foot from the force of the collision. He lay still. Fans in Ohio Stadium widened their eyes and lowered their heads.
AFC North Bytes
Cam Erving plans to prove to Hue Jackson that he's his center of the future, and he also vows not to get kicked out of a game again so he can accomplish that goal.
As the stages get bigger, Ravens rookie Tavon Young keeps proving himself
Potomac High School football coach Ronnie Crump had been trying to convince recruiters that they should pay more attention to Tavon Young. Towson University offered Young a scholarship, but no other school had, and Crump said the process was like pulling teeth.
Mike Tomlin Comments on Chris Boswell's Onside Kick Attempt vs. Ravens
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell's failed onside kick went viral for the wrong reasons in his team's 21-14 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, but that wouldn't dissuade Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin from letting Boswell try it again.
Random Bytes
John Clayton's 2016 NFL midseason All-Pro team
Andy Dalton targets Green 10 times per game, and the wide receiver responds with six catches. No matter what defense is used against the Bengals, Green gets his catches. He leads the league with 59.
Verne Lundquist prepares for life after college football
In Baton Rouge to call Alabama's win over LSU, CBS broadcaster Verne Lundquist prepares for his impending retirement from college football.
Richard Sherman legally leveled a Bills receiver on Buffalo's last play
Monday Night Football was dramatic this week. With the Seahawks leading the Bills, 31-25, and 20 seconds left, Buffalo faced a fourth-and-goal from the Seattle 15-yard line. There looked like there was illegal contact on the final play, but there was nothing illegal about it.
Gridiron Heights, Ep. 9: It's Tom Brady vs. Roger Goodell on Election Day
A heated Election Day race is dividing the Gridiron Heights community. Having seen enough of Roger Goodell's reign, Tom Brady is running against him for mayor. Mirroring the country's current political climate, they exchange barbs over the important issues, most notably who among the candidates eats farts.