The Bengals are currently sitting at 2-13 on the season under Ohio Bengal, the ownership believes that winning seasons is in the near future for the franchise. Let’s take a look at what the Bengals need to improve on in season 103.
Offense: The Bengals finished the season with the 30th ranked offense in the league, 24th passing, 22nd rushing and 20th in Points Per Game. Joe Burrow’s rookie season was turnover plagued as he threw just 13 touchdowns but 36 interceptions. Burrow’s 2nd season we expect to see the franchise use more of Joe Mixon and take some of the pressure off Joe Burrow. Look for the Bengals to work on a 2nd halfback that can help pound the rock with Joe Mixon.
Defense: The `Bengals finished with the leagues worst defense, worst pass defense but the 20th ranked rush defense. The Bengals allowed the most Points Allowed Per Game in the league. Looking back at the offense and lack of ground attack and 36 interceptions thrown, the defense is going to take the brunt of that. William Jackson III had a breakout season at Corner for the Bengals and led the team with 5 interceptions, 1 touchdown and 9 pass defenses. When thrown at Jackson held receivers to just a 18.7% catch ratio which ranks him in the top for coverage corners in Soden Bowl this season. Geno Atkins finished with the team lead in sacks with just 4, the Bengals should look to the draft or Free Agency to help solve the lack of pass rush. A solid pass rush will help the Bengals secondary have even a better season next year.
My outlook for the team is good, they are young and have a solid Coach/User that will place the teams needs above all else. While the Bengals may not be the best team in the Black and Blue division – they will be an improved team in season 103.
