Geoff Hobson relates some buzz surrounding a souped-up defensive line and one of the strongest Bengals teams in recent memory (at least according to strength coach Chip Morton). Plus, Antonio Bryant’s work ethic is getting good reviews, Chase Coffman is recovering, and Jeremi Johnson might still have a shot at wearing stripes this season.
Joe Reedy takes a look at the defensive side of the ball and it becomes pretty clear that the Bengals will be cutting some capable players this summer. Gone are the days when Cincinnati used to stock its team with other team’s castoffs (they prefer the penal system now). Instead, look for some other teams to pick up some of the Bengals cuts, whomever they might be.
On a personal note, I’m stoked about the potential of the defensive line this season. On a third and long this fall, the opposing quarterback could be facing a Bengals blitzkrieg of Antwan Odom, Jon Fanene, Carlos Dunlap, Robert Geathers, and Michael Johnson (assuming he’s rushing as an outside backer). That’s a pretty good pass rush, much better than anything the team has had in previous seasons. And that’s not even counting Geno Atkins, who has impressed in camp and Frostee Rucker, who has some playmaking ability on his own. This team should fare pretty well on third-and-longs, especially considering the Artist Formerly Known as Pac Man should provide an upgrade at nickel corner.
There’s so much talent now that training camp cuts should be very interesting this year. There may even be a few surprises. Stay tuned.
Original Story:
http://stripehype.com/2010/05/22/rost...
