How bad can this season get for Bengals fans? It's bad enough that no one respects the boys in stripes, but what else is new? No, the new low came this past Sunday when the equally dissed and abismal Browns came into our house and beat us 20-12. Now, granted, the Defense of Cincinnati played well most of the game, but the ugly sea monster known as the offensive line reared its head again this week. They could not protect Ryan Fitzpatrick nor could they open up many running lanes for Chris Perry. This brings me to my point for this article: why did we waste a bunch of money by signing Cedric Benson this week?
Granted, Benson is a good back. He had some great production in Chicago's physical system. That team had (and still does not have) a quarterback, so Benson was used profusely. Two alcohol-related charges later, the former top 5 draft pick is unemployed. Apparently, Cincinnati thought he was a good option to bring in due to the recent dismissal of DeDe Dorsey to the IR for the year. Now, Cincinnati does need to bring in a new running back, as Kenny Watson might not play this week and Chris Perry is hurt too. They passed on Shaun Alexander probably due to his age. The problem with this is that Cedric Benson does not play offensive line. The offensive line is pretty vital to having a good running game. That's what we had in 2005 when we won the division, and that is what Benson enjoyed in Chicago. Our offensive line has been offensively lacking this year, and the addition of a new running back will not be the answer Bengals fans are looking for.
In closing, I caution all of us out there that think that Dallas, being in TO self-destruct mode, will be the team we get back on track with. Dallas does have T.O, but the last time I checked, he's a pretty good receiver who will likely give Cincinnati problems in the secondary, especially if Johnathan Joseph is out again this week. Also, that offensive line will be tested against some pretty good speed rushers in Demarcus Ware and Marcus Spears, not to mention a savvy veteran in Zach Thomas. I'm as optimistic as the next guy, but I don't know if Cincinnati can put it all together (with or without Carson) this week and escape the 0-5 start staring them in the face.
Keywords: Carson Palmer, Cedric Benson, Offensive line, Sean Alexander
