Cincy Jungle - NFL preseason Week 3: Cincinnati Bengals at Washington RedskinsWho Deyhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48495/cincyjungle_fave.png2017-08-31T15:48:48-04:00http://www.cincyjungle.com/rss/stream/159573092017-08-31T15:48:48-04:002017-08-31T15:48:48-04:00The Orange and Black Insider Bengals podcast: Suspending hope
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<p>There is a lot of craziness surrounding the Bengals as they get oh-so-close to Week 1 of the regular season. Will Vontaze Burfict win his appeal on his suspension? We also examine how the roster is shaping up with some recent moves.</p> <p id="6JbBsG">Unfortunately, some big news on the suspension of a star player has brought a bit of a cloud over the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Cincinnati Bengals</a>. While there have been positives to many facets of the team’s preseason performances, a more-than-questionable banning of linebacker <span>Vontaze Burfict</span> for <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/30/16225752/vontaze-burfict-suspended-3-games-start-2017-nfl-season-after-appeal">three games by the NFL</a> has overshadowed things of late. </p>
<p id="t102vy">On this week’s Orange and Black Insider, Scott Schulze and I talk about the Burfict suspension and what it means for the team going forward. Will the Bengals be able to get through the tough first three games successfully without No. 55?</p>
<p id="U4UrYA">We also sifted through the ashes of another preseason loss to the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a>. Still, even though Cincinnati ended up in the loss column, there was a lot to like from the team’s performance. The young pass-rushers impressed once again, while the first-team offense looked much better than the first two games. </p>
<p id="jGc3tf">Our live listeners also sent us a number of interesting questions that we answered on air. Join us live here at Cincy Jungle and on YouTube every episode to send us yours to be read on air!</p>
<p id="abQSm1"><em><strong>Here is the </strong></em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641763&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsoundcloud.com%2Fuser-608248362%2Fthe-orange-and-black-insider-bengals-podcast-suspending-hope&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cincyjungle.com%2F2017%2F8%2F31%2F16234648%2Forange-black-insider-bengals-podcast-suspending-hope" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><em><strong>audio link on SoundCloud</strong></em></a><em><strong>. </strong></em></p>
<p id="yVRkl3"><small><em><strong>If you’re unable to join us live, all Orange and Black Insider content is here on Cincy Jungle, as well as on our</strong></em></small><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsoundcloud.com%2Fuser-608248362" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><small><em><strong>SoundCloud</strong></em></small></a><small><em><strong> and </strong></em></small><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVaXlewzr5_f-iEhxa6ij_g"><small><em><strong>YouTube channels</strong></em></small></a><small><em><strong>, and </strong></em></small><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fthe-orange-and-black-insider%2Fid1142320492" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><small><em><strong>on iTunes</strong></em></small></a><small><em><strong>! You can tweet us </strong></em></small><a href="https://twitter.com/BengalsOBI"><small><em><strong>@BengalsOBI</strong></em></small></a><small><em><strong> or get in touch with us via email at theobinsider@gmail.com. Thanks for listening!</strong></em></small></p>
https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/31/16234648/orange-black-insider-bengals-podcast-suspending-hopeAnthony Cosenza2017-08-31T12:30:02-04:002017-08-31T12:30:02-04:00Film Room: Carl Lawson playing well against elite talent in preseason
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<figcaption>Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Linebacker/defensive end hybrid Carl Lawson snagged a sack and a hurry against an All-Pro tackle in the Bengals’ third preseason game.</p> <p id="Lw3UYP">It was a tough night all around for <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Cincinnati Bengals</a> fans on Sunday. The team fell to 1-2 on the preseason and lost linebacker <span>Vontaze Burfict</span> for the first three games of the season (after his appeal dropped the suspension from five games to three). With the NFL handing out a suspension to Burfict, the young linebackers the Bengals brought in will have to step up to fill the void.</p>
<p id="5r0Pjw">Rookie linebacker <span>Carl Lawson</span> saw a lot of playing time early for the Bengals against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a>, where he faced off most of the night against six time <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-pro-bowl">Pro Bowl</a> Tackle <span>Trent Williams</span>. Lawson had a decent night and even managed to sack <span>Kirk Cousins</span> late in the first quarter.</p>
<aside id="Ltjfkd"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Film room: Vontaze Burfict will be deeply missed","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/30/16218628/bengals-preseason-week-3-film-room-vontaze-burfict-deeply-missed"},{"title":"Film room: Joe Mixon’s mistake, John Ross’ debut","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/30/16218828/film-room-joe-mixon-mistake-john-ross-debut"}]}'></div></aside><p id="GfDyt5">Lawson first made an impact on third-and-four where the Bengals place him on the line of scrimmage and show a heavy blitz up the middle and on the edge. As Cousins snaps the ball, the linebackers bail and the Bengals only rush four with Washington double teaming the defensive tackles. Lawson works from the bottom of the screen and uses his speed and leverage to beat Williams to the backside of the pocket, where Cousins moves back to avoid the pressure coming from his right side. </p>
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<p id="55QNPi">With Lawson taking the outside leverage and using his hands to prevent Williams from pushing him too far outside, it makes it so the guard can’t help Williams without running into the quarterback, which forces him to stay on <span>Geno Atkins</span> on the play, who was really just keeping the pocket together at the front. The play shows that off the edge, Lawson not only had a good training camp, but is able to put the skills we saw at Auburn into practice on Sundays against some of the best tackles in the NFL. </p>
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<p id="jj9HGE">In the third quarter, Lawson moved back to the inside linebacker position. The linebackers shifted to the near side as the Redskins got set. Lawson read the play very well, and actually broke through the guard who was slanting across, but the running back cut back and Lawson missed the tackle in the backfield. Lawson did a good job of pressuring the back, and ended up turning him back inside, which limited the carry to two yards. But, the tackle in the backfield would have been a huge one for the defense and young Lawson. </p>
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<p id="H4drPh">Later on the same drive, Lawson moved back down to the edge on a third and five and ended up contributing to <span>Jordan Willis</span> stripping <span>Colt McCoy</span> for a Bengals recovery. Working on the near side, Lawson faced <span>Ty Nsekhe</span> who started six games for Washington last season. Lawson used a bull rush technique on this play and drove the tackle back toward McCoy since the guards doubled the tackles again. When McCoy moves back to avoid the tackle hitting him, Willis plowed into him and forced the ball to the ground. </p>
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<p id="2Hws2z">Lawson adds speed and strength to a pass rush that needed work heading into the offseason, and played his best on the later passing downs when he had the ability to solely rush the quarterback. His bull rush looks strong, and his leverage and speed can complement <span>Carlos Dunlap</span> and Jordan Willis well while providing late down snaps in rotation. This could also keep <span>Michael Johnson</span> more fresh as he’ll be able to take more plays off.</p>
<p id="ZJckdT">Against Washington, Lawson also got valuable snaps at inside linebacker as the Bengals prepare to open the season without Burfict. The coaching staff looks to be testing Lawson in this role, and how well he works as a coverage linebacker, possibly to provide more depth, and save a roster spot. If Lawson keeps impressing, he’ll see playing time on defense early on in his rookie year.</p>
https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/31/16217292/film-room-carl-lawson-elite-talent-preseasonAndrew T Hamilton2017-08-30T20:00:01-04:002017-08-30T20:00:01-04:00The Orange and Black Insider Bengals podcast: 8/30 live stream
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<figcaption>Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>There is a lot of craziness surrounding the Bengals as Week 1 of the regular season is oh-so-close. Will Vontaze Burfict win his appeal on his suspension? We also examine how the roster is shaping up with some recent moves.</p> <p id="tpjUeK">The <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> are coming off of a relatively impressive showing in the preseason “dress rehearsal” against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a> on Sunday, but the team has had some surprises for its fans. Some of them have been by their own shifting of players on and off of the roster, while another was an out-of-the-blue mandate made by commissioner Roger Goodell. </p>
<p id="KQlGHi">If the team loses <span>Vontaze Burfict</span> for the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16213156/cincinnati-bengals-linebacker-vontaze-burfict-5-game-suspension">entire five games he has been suspended</a>, can they still have success in a critical early stretch of the schedule? What do some recent roster moves mean at some other crowded position groups? With the backups getting more time, who needs to make a great impression in the preseason finale to stick on the final roster?</p>
<p id="yUrBuK">Scott Schulze and I discuss these topics and a whole lot more in a jam-packed show. Join us live here at Cincy Jungle, or on our YouTube channel, where you can chat live with a slew of other Bengals fans! We’ll see you at 8:30 p.m. ET tonight!</p>
<p id="3ODrmi"><small><em><strong>If you’re unable to join us live, all Orange and Black Insider content is here on Cincy Jungle, as well as on our</strong></em></small><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsoundcloud.com%2Fuser-608248362" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><small><em><strong>SoundCloud</strong></em></small></a><small><em><strong> and </strong></em></small><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVaXlewzr5_f-iEhxa6ij_g"><small><em><strong>YouTube channels</strong></em></small></a><small><em><strong>, and </strong></em></small><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fthe-orange-and-black-insider%2Fid1142320492" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><small><em><strong>on iTunes</strong></em></small></a><small><em><strong>! You can tweet us </strong></em></small><a href="https://twitter.com/BengalsOBI"><small><em><strong>@BengalsOBI</strong></em></small></a><small><em><strong> or get in touch with us via email at theobinsider@gmail.com. Thanks for listening!</strong></em></small></p>
https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/30/16227064/the-orange-and-black-insider-bengals-podcast-8-30-live-streamAnthony Cosenza2017-08-30T13:00:01-04:002017-08-30T13:00:01-04:00Dalton talks Bengals’ offense, improvements and reaching the end zone
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<figcaption>Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Dalton and the offense finally broke through Sunday to reach the end zone. He likes where the offense is headed but knows improvements must be made. </p> <p id="ooGpbZ"><span>Andy Dalton</span> may have more on his shoulders this year than ever before.</p>
<p id="jNJT55">In addition to having an assortment of offensive weapons that will have him frequently throwing the ball, the offensive line issues will require him to put a greater focus on getting everyone in the best position to win. </p>
<p id="dzZWnx">Dalton will have arguably his best group of pass-catchers in his seven-year career. However, he’ll likely have his worst offensive line as well. That puts the weight of seemingly the entire roster on his shoulders, so he needs to be at his best for the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> to bounce back from a dismal 2016 season. </p>
<p id="8PFwnS">Thus far in the preseason, it’s been mostly good for Dalton, who went 8-of-13 for 70 yards while leading a touchdown drive on Cincinnati’s first possession Sunday at Washington. It marked the first time the Bengals’ starting offense reached the end zone. It also saw the Bengals overcome several third-and-longs, including an offensive pass interference penalty that nearly derailed the drive before it really began. </p>
<aside id="51SCma"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"NFL’s reaction to Vontaze Burfict feels forced","url":"http://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16215412/nfl-reaction-vontaze-burfict-suspension-forced"},{"title":"Bengals snap count distribution vs Redskins offers look at cuts on the way","url":"http://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16215320/bengals-preseason-week-3-snap-count-distribution-vs-redskins"}]}'></div></aside><p id="elvTrN">“We got the third down, we converted the third down, but then they called the offensive pass interference. To overcome that and get a first down there, and then just keeping that drive going – we did see a lot and we were able to do a lot of different things on that drive,” <a href="http://www.bengals.com/news/article-1/Bengals-at-Redskins-Postgame-Quotes/22296808-cee6-458e-b097-3714c4924aed">said Dalton after the game</a>. “What was it, 15 plays? Was that what it was? To have a drive like that to start the game and punch it in the end zone is how we wanted to start. It was good. What we have talked about this whole time is being able to score once we get down there and so to do that on the first drive is big for us. A good start to the game.”</p>
<p id="6cKN9f">Dalton’s first two preseason outings saw the offense reach the red zone twice, but they only managed three total points. One of those drives saw Dalton throw a rare red-zone interception versus the <a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/">Buccaneers</a>. </p>
<p id="yZHfl9">However, Dalton managed to get sacked just once in the entire preseason, all while attempting a total of 31 passes. That means he was sacked just 3.2 percent of the time this preseason, down from 7.2 percent in the regular season last year. </p>
<p id="iE0Iqd">Dalton likes how his offensive line is playing and how the offense is keeping him clean. </p>
<p id="r9EqAM">“I thought those guys did a good job and gave me time, and you know, that’s one thing we’ve been able to do,” Dalton said.“ I’ve been able to move a little bit and get out of a couple of scrambles and different things, so I think they’ve done a great job so far.”</p>
<p id="HMmSRr">One thing that Dalton would like to correct is the third-down conversion rate. The Bengals struggled there last year and haven’t been great there this preseason either. That’s one of the few things he wants to see more work on heading into the new season. </p>
<p id="hMwHVm">“I mean, if we could have converted one of those third downs we could’ve kept it going,” said Dalton. “You know, we had the right play call. We did exactly what we did. I mean obviously we can’t have the turnover, so that hurt us, but then that next drive we had the third down call. We were half a yard short maybe. We had the play call we wanted and their guy just made a tackle and we missed it by half a yard. So there’s a couple things like that where you’re close and you wish that drive would’ve kept going. We were in good rhythm at that point.”</p>
<p id="VH9U4j">The Bengals will wrap up the preseason Thursday when they face the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Indianapolis Colts</a>. Dalton may play a series, but his preseason is likely done, and there’s a lot to like about where he stands heading into Week 1. </p>
https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/30/16212354/andy-dalton-talks-offense-improvements-reaching-end-zoneJason Marcum2017-08-30T12:00:02-04:002017-08-30T12:00:02-04:00Film room: Vontaze Burfict will be deeply missed
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<figcaption>Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Suspended again, the linebacker has been playing great all summer, reminding us of how good he is and what an impact he has on the entire defense.</p> <p id="RSUVVC">Cincinnati Bengals star linebacker <span>Vontaze Burfict</span> is facing a five-game suspension to start the season after the NFL decided a hit on Kansas City <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/">Chiefs</a> fullback <span>Anthony Sherman</span> went too far. The Cincinnati <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> will <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16214292/options-for-replacing-vontaze-burfict-if-5-game-suspension-is-upheld">struggle to replace him</a>, as he showed again on Sunday how important he is and how good he can be when healthy and in shape.</p>
<p id="ScKG1Q">I’m not here to discuss if the suspension is fair or not, although I’ll say I think the NFL was waiting for him to do anything to back up the repeated mantra among media and executives that the Bengals are a reckless team filled with troublemakers.</p>
<p id="ubBGfG">Burfict is the leader of the Bengals’ defense and also the enforcer. He makes plays and also brings up the heat. No other guy can do that as impressively as he does. He proved again his worth against the Washington <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a>, putting on a show as the starters completed a good performance on the road in their dress rehearsal of the preseason.</p>
<p id="SkaSxA">Burfict was the main story on Sunday among a unit that struggled when the top pass rushers went to the bench, but he wasn’t the only story. As always <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/29/16218682/weekly-lineman-bengals-pass-rush-party-redskins-backfield">John Sheeran took care of the linemen</a>, and we’ll discuss the rest of the defense. Again the lack of quality film available in the preseason makes the evaluation job a little harder, but during the preseason most of the offense usually happens in the middle of the field.</p>
<p id="lxBQHr"><strong>Burfict can’t be replaced</strong></p>
<p id="2xKTWC">Last season the veteran linebacker was the difference between a defense that couldn’t stop opponents to save their lives to a unit that actually looked good toward the end of the year. After his suspension, it took some time for Burfict to get into shape, but when he did... oh boy! Now he’s already found the rhythm, and he brought his relentless style of football to Landover on Sunday, starting from literally the first play.</p>
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<p id="Bjtxx8">Burfict doesn’t just tackle the ball carrier. He sets the tone for the rest of the game and makes opposing receivers think twice on whether they want to get there or not. No other Bengal can do this. While Nick Vigil and <span>Vincent Rey</span> can and will replace part of his production in coverage and against the run, <strong>nobody is replacing his impact</strong>.</p>
<p id="8lUmQS">Just check out <span>Kevin Minter</span> trying to impose his will on 50-year old <span>Vernon Davis</span>.</p>
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<p id="bSQqry">Can anybody else light the fire inside the Bengals defenders’ hearts? I don’t believe so.</p>
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<p id="Kc0uBp">To be fair not many teams would have a suitable backup for a guy like Burfict, but in Cincinnati’s case, the linebacker corps has been lacking in personality for a while. The former Arizona State standout not only boasts relentless motor and aggression, he’s also a very talented football player who can make plays both in coverage and on the ground, and he again displayed it on Sunday. Burfict reacted quickly navigating through traffic to undercut <span>Kirk Cousins</span>’ ill-advised throw to the flat and return it for six.</p>
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<p id="oOWrLo">We’ll see what the plan is, but as of right now it appears Vincent Rey will take over his duties both in base and nickel. Rey is a versatile linebacker but better suited as a part-time player, so the drop off could be important.</p>
<aside id="7SJ39K"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"3 Bengals who could replace Burfict if his suspension is upheld","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16214292/options-for-replacing-vontaze-burfict-if-5-game-suspension-is-upheld"},{"title":"Randy Bullock takes lead in Bengals’ kicking competition","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16212470/randy-bullock-lead-bengals-kicking-competition"}]}'></div></aside><h3 id="tQzfib">
<span>Derron Smith</span> could challenge <span>Clayton Fejedelem</span> for the starting spot during Shawn Williams’ injury absence</h3>
<p id="QrVzhp">With strong safety <span>George Iloka</span> injured, Fejedelem has been his replacement so far. It’s not that he hasn’t been good. As I said before, it’s hard to gauge how well the secondary actually plays in preseason without better film and offenses willing to throw deep more often. The second-year player out of Illinois has made some tackles and also showed up in their blitzes, but we usually forget about <span>Smith</span>, taken in the draft one year before, who also shined a little when given the chance during the regular season. With strong safety <span>Shawn Williams</span> out on Sunday, Smith started in his place while Fej started again for Iloka.</p>
<p id="xteipF"><span>Smith</span> is supposedly a better coverage guy, but the Bengals interchange their safeties a lot, and the Californian was consistent against the run on Sunday, showing the discipline some forget when they’re just looking to get in the spotlight during the preseason.</p>
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<p id="UKGxDp"><span>Smith</span> played the most snaps against the Redskins among the safeties, and he’s making the most of his chance. His calling card, the coverage skills, were also in full display.</p>
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<h3 id="b2hpFd">Pressure is everything</h3>
<p id="fpVA7c">Getting to the quarterback is like water for this Bengals defense. They play heavy zone schemes and rely on their front four to bring up the pressure, and they usually struggle when they lack the pass rushers, like in 2014 and 2016.</p>
<p id="zVwqkJ">Now that the team added <span>Jordan Willis</span>, <span>Carl Lawson</span> and <span>Chris Smith</span> plus the depth of the rotation inside that allows to keep the big bodies fresh, you saw on Sunday how they were able to get stops. When those key guys were on the bench, though, longtime backup quarterback <span>Colt McCoy</span> attacked the middle of the field time after time, often for big gains. Just check out some of the pockets the former Brown had. He had plenty of time for the receivers to sit in the zone and for him to throw a fastball in the window.</p>
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<p id="E44nqQ">Of course we are talking about a former starting quarterback going up against third stringers, but the point remains. The Bengals defense is effective when its line gets some push, and when it does not, opposing quarterbacks are going to find it easy to move the chains against the team.</p>
<p id="Rsd23O">Hopefully, with a reloaded line that now includes Willis, Lawson, Smith, nose tackle <span>Andrew Billings</span> and tackle <span>Ryan Glasgow</span> the results will be much better than in 2016.</p>
<p id="n33BnF">Next up is the last game of the preseason on Thursday against the Indianapolis <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a>, and it’ll be an opportunity for the backups and roster hopefuls to make an impact.</p>
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https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/30/16218628/bengals-preseason-week-3-film-room-vontaze-burfict-deeply-missedmuertedeatenas2017-08-30T11:00:01-04:002017-08-30T11:00:01-04:00Film room: Joe Mixon’s mistake, John Ross’ debut
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<img alt="Cincinnati Bengals v Washington Redskins" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/V5C_F6ZlfteTJVga34JHKlPBE9o=/0x0:5184x3456/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56427879/839960662.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>After a great opening drive, the Bengals couldn’t sustain their success.</p> <p id="3eBZ3k">The <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Cincinnati Bengals</a> offense had some questions to answer coming into Week 3 of the preseason. How is the new offensive line going to hold up? In what way will the Bengals use <span>John Ross</span> this year? Will <span>Joe Mixon</span> be heavily integrated in the backfield? All of these were valid concerns heading into the game against Washington, and while not all of them were answered, we’ve at least seen some inclinations that can help us predict one with some confidence.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="CQ7IDV">
<h3 id="OFHlii">A Classic Cincinnati Combo</h3>
<p id="3iRevq">Aside from cheddar cheese and Skyline chili, I don’t think there’s a more iconic Cincinnati combination than <span>Andy Dalton</span> to <span>A.J. Green</span>. That’s why it was good to see the two connecting early and often (almost too often) this week.</p>
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<p id="elnvuZ">We can see that <span>Josh Norman</span> is picking up where he left off last season at being completely incapable of covering Green, as the Bengals wideout fought through contact to convert a third and long. Green provided the bulk of the offensive production on the opening drive so it’s good to know the team’s best playmaker is ready to pick things up where he left off in 2016 come Week 1.</p>
<h3 id="qfBNDE">Mixon It Up</h3>
<p id="5YR2V3">Everyone knew Joe Mixon was going to be a dominant running back in the NFL coming into this year’s draft. That much was almost assured. Any doubters of the former Sooner’s talent have certainly been silenced through the preseason, as he’s looked nothing short of stellar so far.</p>
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<p id="ClH7Vo">For a running back who’s hovering around 230 pounds Mixon is obscenely agile, enough so that he can pull off a Madden-like juke that leaves Josh Norman looking like a fool. Combine that with enough balance to keep himself upright mid-stride and it’s easy to see just how special of a talent he is. That said, he’s still a rookie, and rookies have bumps along the way.</p>
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<p id="F8qgii">On the Bengals’ next position, following the terrific opening drive, Mixon performed a cardinal sin of running backs. While taking the handoff from Dalton, Mixon didn’t look the ball in and he just flat out fumbled it. Dalton did everything he could do for Mixon, but the running back just closed his arms before he even had the football. There’s no way to describe that besides impatience.</p>
<aside id="imaFI4"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"The good, bad and ugly from the Bengals’ preseason loss to the Redskins","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/29/16218110/good-bad-ugly-bengals-preseason-loss-redskins"},{"title":"Weekly Lineman: Bengals pass rush has a party in Redskins’ backfield","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/29/16218682/weekly-lineman-bengals-pass-rush-party-redskins-backfield"}]}'></div></aside><h3 id="9vQEsC">Run Ross, Run</h3>
<p id="BVXTUh">To the surprise of no one, John Ross was brought on slowly for his first preseason game as a Bengal. What was insightful however, was the persistence of using his speed as a decoy as well as a weapon.</p>
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<p id="vPO2jI">Cincinnati used this look out of 12 personnel a few different times on the day, with Ross almost consistently in the slot and running this across formation motion. On this particular play they use his sprinter speed and some nice blocking from <span>Tyler Kroft</span> and <span>Ryan Hewitt</span> to get around the edge for eight yards. It might not sound like much, but knowing you have that speed threat on the edge can be a huge pain for defenses. The Bengals also ran a dive to the running back while faking the jet to Ross. With defenses needing to spread out to respect Ross’ speed, it can leave huge holes in the middle for back’s to run through. Ross’ speed is just as much of a threat when he doesn’t get the ball as when he does.</p>
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<p id="OlfwVv">Here, early in the third quarter, <span>AJ McCarron</span> is able to hit <span>Alex Erickson</span> on a crossing route for a gain of about 30 yards. The massive play is opened up because Ross starts the play at the top of the screen as the X receiver. Ross runs a deep post which draws attention from the safety on that side of the field. It leaves Erickson able to fit into space underneath and pick up the huge gain.</p>
<p id="1TCpwL">We don’t have all of our questions about this team resolved going into Week 1, but the truth is, we were never going to. With so many new pieces in this offense, it’s likely going to be Week 3 or Week 4 until any of us truly know what the identity of this attack is. Thankfully, one of the Bengals’ biggest issues is that they have so many playmakers it’s hard to know exactly who is going to play a big role in this offense outside of Green and Tyler Eifert. That’s a pretty good problem to have, and it bodes well for the team going forward. The number one goal of this group should just be to stay healthy. If they can do that, I like their chances going forward.</p>
https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/30/16218828/film-room-joe-mixon-mistake-john-ross-debutBraden Whited2017-08-30T09:00:04-04:002017-08-30T09:00:04-04:00What we learned from the Bengals loss to the Redskins
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<img alt="NFL: Cincinnati Bengals at Washington Redskins" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/0krQ_6cothH0P-kNcoMhvV5Vcsw=/0x0:3831x2554/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56426475/usa_today_10243140.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>There were some good moments and some bad moments from Sunday’s preseason game. Here’s what we know.</p> <p id="uetPkP">The third game of the preseason will resemble the regular season more than any other. Unlike the rest of the preseason, the projected starters played the entire first half. What we say now is less speculation and more observation. Predictions can be made with more certainty and opinions will now have more foundation. </p>
<p id="aGgDuM">This is as close as we will get to “real football” until the regular season opener on September 10th. Only a Cincinnati <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> victory would have made Sunday more enjoyable. As anticipation toward the regular season grows, here is what we have learned after the Bengals’ 23-17 loss to the Washington <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a>.</p>
<h3 id="BKtAuh">The offense can score</h3>
<p id="FzmU7d">It is hard to believe it took the first team offense three games to score. <span>Jeremy Hill</span> broke the silence with a diving three-yard touchdown on the Bengals first drive. On that possession, <span>Andy Dalton</span> and the offense could do no wrong. Hill pounded the rock, Dalton and <span>A.J. Green</span> were in sync, and the line had some shining moments. A perfectly drawn up play was a fitting end to an excellent drive. </p>
<p id="ls6IG2">Critics will say, “but the starters only gained 38 yards after that possession.”</p>
<p id="6ZJXft">Yes, that is true. The Bengals looked strikingly different in the following drives. But Green was right when <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/23/16185670/aj-green-john-ross-nfl-debut-washington-relax-offense">he said the fans need to relax</a>. Winning is not the goal of the preseason. Perhaps the coaches selected some plays to evaluate certain players as opposed to running plays that would gain more yards. The team is still trying to figure some things out after all. Bengals fans should be content with the one touchdown. The offense has that spark it needs. The score came after a long drive that started on their own 13-yard line. To score on such a long possession requires consistency and discipline—both things that you need to have to win regular season games. The Bengals showed they have what it takes.</p>
<p id="9yulqZ">If this dry spell continues during the regular season, then panicking will be acceptable.</p>
<aside id="edux2f"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Bengals trade LB Marquis Flowers to Patriots","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/29/16219780/bengals-trade-lb-marquis-flowers-to-patriots"},{"title":"3 winners and 2 losers from Peerman to IR, Wilson off NFI","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/29/16221624/bengals-roster-update-3-winners-2-losers-cedric-peerman-brandon-wilson"}]}'></div></aside><h3 id="dNYoj5">
<span>Trey Hopkins</span> has won the starting right guard position</h3>
<p id="UaF54U">The spot at right guard belongs to Hopkins now. He played 34 snaps at the position, which is more than anyone else at guard. The story at that position throughout training camp has been the battle between Hopkins and Andre <span>Smith</span>. After returning from Minnesota, <span>Smith</span> was expected to grab that spot. Instead, the nine year veteran played with the second team on Sunday at his natural position of tackle. </p>
<p id="QNFzSN">The Bengals have given up on the idea that Smith will play guard. Hopkins, an undrafted free agent, has won the job outright, and will start the season lined up at that position. So far, he looks like he fits in well. In all likelihood, only injury can keep him from occupying that spot. </p>
<h3 id="atisLV">The offensive line showed more new looks</h3>
<p id="RDfXL0">Smith may have lost his starting spot, but he has not lost his importance on the line. The only position he has ever played in the regular season is right tackle, but he moved to the left side on Sunday. He acted as more than just a stand in, however; <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16212860/andre-smith-among-pffs-top-graded-bengals-in-preseason-week-3">he was one of the highest graded players of the game by Pro Football Focus</a>. Given that the left side is the most important side of the line, this might indicate Smith has the edge over fellow veteran Eric Winston, who played right tackle on Sunday. If starters <span>Cedric Ogbuehi</span> or <span>Jake Fisher</span> are to go down or underperform, Smith will likely be the next man up. Just because Hopkins stole his spot at right guard doesn’t mean the Bengals won’t find a way to use him.</p>
<p id="8XFwKv">Before the first line left the game in the second half, <span>Clint Boling</span> was replaced by T.J. Johnson. Listed as a center in the roster, <span>Johnson</span> made his first appearance at guard this preseason. <span>Christian Westerman</span> had previously played at left guard with the second line, and performed well, but did not return to the that spot on Sunday. When the second line took the field, <span>Johnson</span> resumed his backup center duties and <span>Alex Redmond</span> took over at blind side guard. Westerman played right guard, which could mean he is sliding down the depth chart. But, it could also be <span>Marvin Lewis</span> fiddling around with the lineup. </p>
<h3 id="K23wAl">The defensive line was mixed around as well</h3>
<p id="XVbnWt">If you thought you knew the Bengals defensive line, think again. </p>
<p id="HJfP7E">First of all, defensive end <span>Michael Johnson</span> played 25 snaps, one shy of Carlos Dunlap’s defensive line-high of 26. This is surprising, given his sinking popularity. More than 2,000 Bengals fans think it is time for the Bengals to move on from Johnson, which is 84 percent of all fans who responded to a<a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/16/16144356/time-bengals-move-on-michael-johnson"> Cincy Jungle poll concerning Johnson.</a> Despite his growing criticism, the Bengals might be looking for a way to keep Johnson on the roster.</p>
<p id="1KdpSK">Paul Guenther and the Bengals threw out some interesting formations that involved Johnson playing on the interior part of the line. Perhaps they are testing him in a new position to see if they can use him elsewhere in the lineup. Or perhaps they want him on the field with some other talented players, such as <span>Jordan Willis</span> or <span>Chris Smith</span>. </p>
<p id="cj2gqP">Whatever the reason, he seemed to do better on the inside. His best play of the day came from the defensive tackle position in the first quarter when he forced an intentional grounding penalty from Kirk Cousins. Aside from that, he seemed to get consistent pressure on Cousins from that position.</p>
<p id="3U5ARM">Should the Bengals still part ways with Johnson? Let us know in the comments.</p>
<p id="Qetanp">The second interesting observation about the line was Carl Lawson’s involvement at defensive end. Lawson was a defensive end coming out of Auburn, but <a href="http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2017/05/cincinnati_bengals_tab_carl_la.html">the Bengals were looking to turn him into a linebacker</a>. For most of the preseason, however, he has played the majority of his snaps at defensive end.</p>
<p id="Ambyhi">Because of the new formations, it is hard to tell whether his role was blitzing linebacker or true defensive end. For example, in <span>Chris Smith</span>’s sack in the first quarter, the Bengals defense lined up in a five-man front. <span>Nick Vigil</span> was the only true linebacker on the field as five defensive backs joined the squad. Was Lawson supposed to be a second linebacker? The line was composed of Dunlap, Smith, <span>Geno Atkins</span>, and <span>Wallace Gilberry</span>; was Lawson playing as a fourth defensive end? We can’t say for sure.</p>
<p id="bNmF0j">With a possible suspension looming for Burfict, <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16214292/options-for-replacing-vontaze-burfict-if-5-game-suspension-is-upheld">the Bengals are looking for his replacement</a>. Even though <span>Vincent Rey</span> is the backup for all three linebacker positions, and even though he played in Burfict’s spot while he was being evaluated for a concussion, this seems like a great opportunity to have Lawson play outside linebacker. One would think that on Thursday the Bengals will want to explore that option just to be sure. One thing seems certain: Lawson will succeed at whichever position he finds himself playing.</p>
<p id="jaDwaO">He did play linebacker during the second half, but this communicates he is a defensive end primarily.</p>
<h3 id="N6LnSG">The cornerbacks and safeties were rotating</h3>
<p id="RPaZMf"><span>Darqueze Dennard</span> and <span>Dre Kirkpatrick</span> were able to play together for the first time this preseason. The Bengals are still trying to solidify the pairing that Guenther will field for Week 1 against the <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a> during <span>Adam Jones</span>’ suspension. <span>William Jackson</span> and Dennard have gone back and forth the entire training camp and preseason battling for that opening day spot. It bodes well for Dennard that he started on the boundary with Kirkpatrick. After all was said and done, he had 29 snaps over Jackson’s 20. Is this an indicator that Dennard has the lead?</p>
<p id="2VIzEA">Jackson did have his fair share of reps at the position, however. When Jackson entered the game, Dennard slid over to slot corner. While Josh Shaw handled the bulk of the slot duties last year, he was busy playing safety, leaving the slot vacant.</p>
<p id="xxN0BC">Because of injuries to <span>George Iloka</span> and <span>Shawn Williams</span>, Shaw was pressed into duty at safety. He shared the load with <span>Derron Smith</span> and Clayton Fejedelem. The Bengals are hoping for Iloka to return in time to square off against the Ravens, leaving only one empty safety spot to fill. Smith led the pack with a whopping 43 snaps, while Fejedelem and Shaw totalled 34 and 30 respectively. All three had ample opportunity to showcase their abilities, but if the season started today Smith would probably be the next man up to fill in for Williams.</p>
https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/30/16218622/what-we-learned-bengals-loss-redskinsNick Manchester2017-08-29T17:00:02-04:002017-08-29T17:00:02-04:00The good, bad and ugly from the Bengals’ preseason loss to the Redskins
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<img alt="NFL: Cincinnati Bengals at Washington Redskins" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bOmSJLB0Ux4bLZlK-cShwYMF8g8=/0x0:4496x2997/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56409385/usa_today_10243390.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kareem Elgazzar/Cincinnati Enquirer-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Bengals put forth a nice showing in their “dress rehearsal” against the Redskins, despite losing, 23-17. </p> <p id="xYqjKI">Feelings in Bengaldom are at an odd place right now. The team is sitting at 1-2 in the preseason, but showed some nice things on tape in their “dress rehearsal” against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a>. Couple that with <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/27/16213030/vontaze-burfict-facing-5-game-suspension-for-hit-in-bengals-vs-chiefs-preseason-game">an odd announcement of a suspension</a> of one of their star players and fans’ heads are spinning. </p>
<p id="aM4G0h">Regardless, here is the best and worst from the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a>’ 23-17 loss to the Redskins on Sunday afternoon. </p>
<h3 id="gx3VBN">The Good:</h3>
<p id="C0IiFj"><em><strong>The first-stringers: </strong></em>We wanted to see the Bengals’ starting offense get into the end zone and they did just that. <span>A.J. Green</span> looked impressive and <span>Andy Dalton</span> made nice throws in tough situations. The defense also stepped up in a variety of ways, including their star linebacker getting a pick-six.</p>
<p id="TGVjVJ"><span><em><strong>Vontaze Burfict</strong></em></span><em><strong>: </strong></em>After shedding some pounds this offseason, Burfict has looked impressive this preseason. The aforementioned pick-six was a thing of beauty and one that showed great athleticism. Unfortunately, after the game, the team received bad news for No. 55 as he is facing a five-game suspension. </p>
<aside id="Ebk5Bj"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"NFL’s reaction to Vontaze Burfict feels forced","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16215412/nfl-reaction-vontaze-burfict-suspension-forced"},{"title":"3 Bengals who could replace Burfict if his suspension is upheld","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16214292/options-for-replacing-vontaze-burfict-if-5-game-suspension-is-upheld"}]}'></div></aside><p id="ARSPCT"><em><strong>Weapons, weapons, weapons: </strong></em>Even with Joe Mixon’s fumble, the teams’ offensive skill positions appear to be loaded. Mixon, <span>Giovani Bernard</span> and <span>Jeremy Hill</span> all contributed to the running game, while rookie <span>John Ross</span> also had an exciting carry and <span>Alex Erickson</span> continues to step up as a viable option at receiver. If the Bengals give Dalton time, he’ll have numerous options to make plays—which was apparent on paper, but came to fruition on Sunday. </p>
<p id="HlNoWI"><span><em><strong>Randy Bullock</strong></em></span><em><strong> stepping up: </strong></em>While the Bengals wanted to get younger and faster at a number of spots this offseason, one of the biggest question marks in 2017 was at kicker. Both Bullock and rookie <span>Jake Elliott</span> have played well this preseason, but Bullock continues to convert long attempts and seems to be the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16212470/randy-bullock-lead-bengals-kicking-competition">front-runner for the open position</a>. The veteran hit a 53-yarder against Washington on Sunday, as well as converting an extra point. </p>
<p id="i510Bq"><em><strong>Forcing turnovers: </strong></em>In terms of the defense creating opportunities for the offense, Paul Guenther’s unit definitely stepped up on Sunday. Burfict made life easy for them with his addition of six points, while Jordan Willis also forced a fumble to aid the cause. These are the plays that need to be made for the Bengals to have a bounce-back season in 2017. </p>
<p id="UOEiFI"><em><strong>The young pass-rushers: </strong></em><span>Chris Smith</span> and Willis, two additions the team made this offseason via trade and draft, respectively, have been the best players of the preseason. Both had another sack against Washington, prompting thoughts of their potential roles in 2017. </p>
<h3 id="OhMR4j">The Bad:</h3>
<p id="bei2v7"><em><strong>Points coming at a premium: </strong></em>Even though the starting offense showed us some nice things, the Bengals still had trouble getting into the end zone. After the team suffered some serious injuries on offense last year, what we saw from the unit was often miserable as the season wore on. </p>
<p id="ycVHUL">That kind of reared its head again on Sunday afternoon in the nation’s capital. The offense and special teams units only contributed 10 points, which won’t be sustainable once the regular season begins. It’s just the preseason and there are a number of moving parts, but this isn’t something that can continue. </p>
<p id="A3VyQb"><em><strong>The kick return game: </strong></em>In short, there just wasn’t anything to write home about in this area. The team didn’t have a kickoff return longer than 18 yards, while no punt returner went for longer than seven yards. This is an area in which the team always likes being able to rely on the occasional big play to assist the offense, so guys like Erickson, <span>Adam Jones</span> and others will need to step up. </p>
<p id="bM6dVR"><span><em><strong>AJ McCarron</strong></em></span><em><strong>: </strong></em>Cincinnati’s backup signal-caller has been the king of the preseason since he joined the team in 2014, but this has been a rough summer for the former college national champion. The Bengals reportedly received some lucrative trade offers for McCarron earlier this year that they balked at, but they might be regretting that decision.</p>
<p id="y9BWYw">After a poor showing in camp, McCarron hasn’t looked any more impressive in actual preseason games. He had a brutal interception which led to a Redskins touchdown and just doesn’t seem to exude the same confidence we’ve seen from him before. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">He has actually had a horrible camp and been the worst of the 3 QBs... he's still the backup, but hasn't played well at all</p>— Richard Skinner (@Local12Skinny) <a href="https://twitter.com/Local12Skinny/status/894687919918731264">August 7, 2017</a>
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<aside id="3eZ7jF"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"5 winners and 2 losers from Bengals’ loss to Washington","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/27/16212058/preseason-week-3-winners-losers-bengals-convincing-performance-starters"},{"title":"The Reaction Five: Thoughts on Bengals’ loss in Washington","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/28/16212468/nfl-preseason-week-3-5-reactions-to-bengals-loss-in-washington"},{"title":"Bengals come out swinging, give up lead in 23-17 loss to Redskins","url":"https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/27/16211886/preseason-week-3-bengals-come-out-swinging-give-up-lead-23-17-loss-redskins"}]}'></div></aside><h3 id="ASeLdM">The Ugly:</h3>
<p id="ZM6EXL"><em><strong>Lingering mistakes: </strong></em>The Bengals had two turnovers and missed a field goal against the Redskins on Sunday. Simply put, if the Bengals want to get back to the postseason, the margin for error is slim and they need to get points whenever possible. The preseason is the time to work the kinks out, but with a youthful infusion of talent to the roster, silly mistakes can’t be made in the regular season. </p>
<p id="tfHbGK"><em><strong>Jake Elliott: </strong></em>The consensus from most Bengals fans is they’d like to see the rookie win the open competition at kicker. While it’s been a tight race so far, Bullock just keeps hitting all of his kicks—especially long ones. Elliott missed a 45-yarder on Sunday, which won’t help his bid for the job. </p>
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https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/8/29/16218110/good-bad-ugly-bengals-preseason-loss-redskinsAnthony Cosenza