At the pep rally

[*SHRacerX*]

(02-08-2022, 05:00 PM)Shake n Blake Wrote: We've had a lot of "no gain" runs in the playoffs, haven't we?

We haven't been toooo terrible overall though. Mixon is averaging 3.7 ypc in the playoffs.

For comparison, the Rams duo of Akers (2.8 ypc) and Michel (3.3 ypc) has been pretty rough.

Both the Bengals and Rams have stuck with the run, despite the lack of success. It's something I'll definitely be looking for on Sunday. Will either team be able to run the ball well?


Even at 60%, the Rams would have to account for him. When Sample is in, the defense can almost forget he exists.

Not to mention the morale boost. These guys love Ceej.

The Rams run defense is really tough, and as frustrating as it may be to watch sometimes, the Bengals still need to test the LBs and slow them down just a bit with the realistic threat of a run.  Donald and company do a good job occupying the blockers so the LBs can flow to the ball, but for play-action and screens to work, there needs to be at least the threat of a traditional hand off. 

One thing I think about with respect to the offensive line and run blocking: The last time the Bengals had two weeks between games  was when they faced the Raiders during the regular season.  The line had been struggling, but coming off that bye, they really pushed around the Raiders line and Mixon had a big game.  

I know in this case the Rams had a bye as well, but I still think it can only help them.  I do hope we see more Carman than Adeniji.  He was on the field that final drive at KC.  I think his superior strength is needed here.