Not Built for Division

[*ochocincos*]

(09-17-2023, 09:58 PM)THE PISTONS Wrote: So, I think most agree that the Browns are a bad matchup for us.

Lamar is now 7-1 against us when he starts.

Then, we know that the Steelers always play us tough.

What do we have to do to start beating these teams more?

While I get what you mean, I think it's a bit exaggerated.

2019-2020: 2-10

2021-present: 7-7 (inc. this season)

They've been better since Burrow came back from his torn ACL.

As for identity though, I think a lot of it comes down to Bengals being a passing team whereas the division is predominantly a running division.
Bengals have shown they can't stop the Browns and Ravens from running the ball.
Lamar Jackson is incredibly difficult to defend because of his ability to scramble and avoid sacks.
Steelers have always been a thorn, but some of that is because of cheap tactics. Or as they would say, "hard nosed football."

Bengals have to be able to better establish the run and defend the run if they want to win a majority of these divisional games.