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The Bengals saw some great performances Friday in their first preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Guys like Jeff Driskel, Tra Carson, and William Jackson III used their time on the field to show the fans and coaching staff how far they’ve come in the offseason.
However, there were a few players who got the short end of the snap count stick, players who should be given more chances next week to ensure they have their chance to prove their worth.
Josh Tupou
Although Tupou is facing an uphill battle to make the Bengals’ final roster, he certainly looks like a player who could surprise. At 6’3 and 350 pounds, the Bengals signed him directly out of Colorado to potentially help shore up their defensive line. His frame and prowess in the gap are no doubt what piqued the Bengals’ interest when they signed him back in April, but it won’t make much difference if he is only given six snaps in the game, like he was on Friday.
Stanley ‘Boom’ Williams
Speaking of players who only received six snaps on Friday, Williams should have been given more. Granted, Tra Carson ate most of the snaps up for backup running backs (19) and looked very good in the process. But, Williams has been impressive in training camp and could potentially make a big impact with his small frame, if he is given more opportunities.
J.J. Dielman
Dielman is supposedly in competition with T.J. Johnson for the Bengals’ backup center position. After all, that would explain why they drafted him in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. But, he only received 12 snaps to Johnson’s 23. It would stand to reason, if the Bengals are serious about encouraging a competition at the position, they should be giving each player an equal opportunity to prove themselves, especially when one player is a recent draft pick.
Cody Core
We have discussed the Bengals’ desire to roster seven wide receivers this year at length. That is likely due to the hype surrounding Core, who has received nothing but praise this offseason for his efforts and talent on display in training camp. But, he only received seven snaps on Friday, and only was targeted twice in the passing game. That said, he brought in one of those targets for a 17-yard catch. If anyone merits more chances to prove himself, he is that player.
What do you think, Bengals fans? Which of these players with a low snap count deserves a bigger chance in Week 2? Vote in the poll, or let us know if we missed anyone in the comments!
Poll
Which Bengals deserve a bigger chance in Game 2?
This poll is closed
-
27%
Josh Tupou
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10%
Stanley ‘Boom’ Williams
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25%
J.J. Dielman
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37%
Cody Core