10-31-2016, 09:16 AM
Cincinnati does have linebackers who can rush the quarterback. They just don't -- and here's why:
When a defensive line can't close gaps and gets pushed around by offensive linemen, linebackers need to close those gaps to prevent huge runs. On passing downs the Bengal linebackers usually drop into coverage because opposing quarterbacks know tight ends are going to be free across the middle if linebackers don't cover them. This places emphasis on the Cincinnati front four to pressure the quarterback and stuff the run and unfortunately they excel at neither function.
When a defensive line can't close gaps and gets pushed around by offensive linemen, linebackers need to close those gaps to prevent huge runs. On passing downs the Bengal linebackers usually drop into coverage because opposing quarterbacks know tight ends are going to be free across the middle if linebackers don't cover them. This places emphasis on the Cincinnati front four to pressure the quarterback and stuff the run and unfortunately they excel at neither function.
![[Image: 4CV0TeR.png]](https://i.imgur.com/4CV0TeR.png)
