Bengals’ Unsung Hero of the Week vs. Seahawks

Even though the Bengals came up one point short of a victory this Sunday, many players stepped up in various ways to get them close to a win. While a handful of players stole the spotlight, a glut of others played well without the fanfare. In case you’re new around these parts, that’s what this award encompasses for Bengals players.

Cast your vote and sound off on your winner for the Bengals’ Week 1 Unsung Hero of the Week!

Giovani Bernard: Part of the criteria for this award is in a player stepping up in the wake of injury. Joe Mixon tweaked his ankle midway through the game, paving the way for Bernard to have a bigger role.

Running room was tough to find, as Bernard churned out 21 tough yards on seven carries Sunday afternoon. He also continued his trademark contributions as a receiver, nabbing two receptions for 42 yards.

Tyler Boyd: John Ross III had the big afternoon, but Boyd worked the sticks with great efficiency. He was targeted 11 times and snagged eight balls for 60 yards.

Tyler Eifert: Unfortunately, the Bengals couldn’t get No. 85 the ball in the red zone, as we have become accustomed to, but he once again proved to be a nice security blanket for Andy Dalton. He finished with five catches for 27 yards on six targets.

Preston Brown: Though he only had four total tackles, Brown helped spearhead a defense that frustrated the Seahawks all evening. Seattle ran for just 72 yards on 25 carries for a 2.88 average and Brown was a big reason why. Brown also forced the fumble of Chris Carson at the beginning of the third quarter.

Geno Atkins: This award should be named after this guy. Atkins didn’t wow on the stat sheet with just two assisted tackles, but if you’re a data geek, his four pressures and hit on Russell Wilson gave him Pro Football Focus “All-PFF Week 1 Team” honors.

Kevin Huber: Punters are players too! Huber only hit one of his four punts inside the 20-yard line, but it was inside the 10-yard line. His four kicks were at 44.3-yard average, and he boomed a 51-yarder on the day.