Cincinnati Bengals
· 2026-06-26
The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a critical season ahead, with their standing at 16th in the American Football Conference and a 3-14 record.
The team has nowhere to go but up, especially with their defense, which ranked 31st in total defense in 2025 and 32nd in rushing defense.
The Bengals allowed 380.9 yards per game and gave up 60 total touchdowns, with a 26th ranking in passing defense.
Dan Graziano, an ESPN writer, noted that the Bengals' problem is clear, with the team ranking 10th in offensive EPA and 29th in defensive EPA over the past three years.
The Bengals' defense has fallen off badly since their glory years in 2021 and 2022, when they ranked in the top 10 in defensive EPA.
A healthy Joe Burrow is crucial to the team's success, with the quarterback's ability to stay healthy being a major factor in the Bengals' potential for a good season.
The team has made major changes on defense, including trading for star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II and signing edge rusher Boye Mafe and safety Bryan Cook.
The Bengals return all 11 starters from last season's offense, with a rookie wide receiver in Colbie Young turning heads this offseason.
The team's next game is against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 13, 2026.
The Cincinnati Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens are expected to be the clear favorites to come out of the AFC North.
And with a improved defense and a healthy Joe Burrow, the Bengals are looking to make some noise in the AFC.
But the key to their success will be the health of their quarterback, with Burrow's injury history being a major concern.
So the Bengals will be looking to start strong, with their first game just around the corner.
The team's fans will be watching closely, hoping for a turnaround from last season's disappointing performance.
With a 3-14 record and a two-game losing streak, the Bengals are looking to bounce back and make a push for the playoffs.
The team's defense will be crucial, with the Bengals looking to improve on their 31st ranking in total defense.
And with the addition of new players, the Bengals are hoping to make a deep run in the AFC.
The team's offense, led by Joe Burrow, will also be key, with the Bengals looking to improve on their 10th ranking in offensive EPA.
The Bengals are standing 16th in the American Football Conference, but they are looking to move up the rankings with a strong performance this season.