Jon Gruden kicks the Bengals while they're already down in the worst way

Unfortunately for Cincinnati, this is yet another example of the funniest things in life being true.

Yes, the Bengals' defense is that bad

This is a unit that's worth roasting into oblivion. Cincinnati ranks dead last or very close to last in most notable defensive categories at the midseason point. Much of that is thanks to the combined 86 points and 1,078 yards the defense has surrendered in just the last two weeks! The Bengals scored 38 and 42 points, respectively, in those games and lost both of them.

Bengals defense ranks through Week 9

• 32nd in points per game
• 32nd in yards per game
• 32nd in EPA/play
• 32nd in success rate

As Gruden points out, missed tackles, blown assignments, and general incompetency have contributed to Cincinnati's defense becoming a laughingstock. These issues were supposed to be cleaned up thanks to new coaching from defensive coordinator Al Golden and the new assistants he hired to work under him.

Through nine weeks, things have only gotten worse for the now 3-6 Bengals.

Trey Hendrickson being injured for most of the last month hasn't helped, and if he returns after the bye week, his pass-rushing production should make things a bit easier for the other 10 players on the field.

The alternative is the defense remains an indisputable punchline for Gruden and other analysts and pundits alike.

Cincinnati will return next Sunday to face the Pittsburgh Steelers.

This story was originally reported by A to Z Sports on Nov 8, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add A to Z Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.