The Cincinnati Bengals are one of the most interesting stories in the NFL. After the success of a few years ago, the team has struggled to find its way. Despite this, they opted to keep head coach Marvin Lewis and mostly kept the rest of the team intact.
After a very disappointing record of 4-11-1 in 2008, the team found themselves in a position where they might be forced to regroup. It’s true that they played the season without Carson Palmer, their leading QB, but the 4-11-1 still caused a lot of concern in inner circles. Other than that, his defense was one of the worst in the NFL last season.
The Bengals started the 2009 season with Carson Palmer back, but nobody expected much from this team. They would still be the laughing stock of the NFL in the minds of many fans.
After a few wins to start the season, the opinion of some changed. However, others thought it was a fluke. The team even came close to beating the Vikings in Minnesota, which should say enough in itself.
With some really big wins this season over the likes of the Steelers, Packers and Ravens, and last week’s 45-10 wrecking act over the visiting Bears, it’s clear this team is the real deal.
The Cincinnati Bengals are now 5-2 on the season and tied for first place in the division with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a team they beat in their first meeting.
Much of the Bengals’ success must be attributed to two players. Carson Palmer has been the spark plug in all of this, leading a reinvigorated offense to success. Additionally, Cedric Benson has proven himself to be one of the top running backs in the NFL in 2009, surprising many by proving that he is rightfully worthy of a featured running back role.