A couple of blogs ago, I ranted, and perhaps even raved, at the running game situation that, in my humble opinion, contributed to the Cincinnati Bengals' humiliating--nay, emasculating--defeat at the hands of the 49ers in Week Fifteen.
Thank God Marvin Lewis reads my blog.
Sunday, the Bengals took advantage of a paper-thin Browns defensive line to punch Kenny Watson through for 130 yards on thirty carries. His efforts, including picking up a touchdown, did set the Bengals in position for two field goals that helped lift the Bengals over the Brownies 19-14.
I have been preaching this all season. Even when healthy, Rudi Johnson has appeared soft going to the inside of the line and has not put up good numbers, forcing a weakened Bengals pass offense to try to carry each game.
It hasn't worked.
Finally, due in reality to injuries to DeDe Dorsey and Rudi Johnson, and the fact Carson Palmer's passing success was recently seen on the side of a milk carton, Kenny Watson got the chance to strut his stuff in a solo act, and it paid off in diamonds.
I'd love to think I helped stoke an epiphany in Coach Lewis that made him see the light as to Watson. I know better, but I'd love to think it.
Rudi Johnson, for as much as he contributed to the Bengals on and off the field, has shot past his prime. Kenny Watson has proven to be a better, bigger back that has explosive power when his line can create some nooks and crannies. While it is too late to redevelope the Bengals offense around Watson this season, let's hope Watson's efforts pay off and earn him the shot in the sun he richly deserves in 2008.
