11-18-2023, 12:24 PM
(11-17-2023, 08:38 PM)SunsetBengal Wrote: It's the system. In today's NFL you simply cannot drop back in shotgun 40-50 times per game, every game without having your OL establish control of the LOS via the rushing attack. Opposing DLs know that it's pass, pass, pass and they treat it as such. If they knew the Bengals could line up and get 3-5 every time they handed the ball off, they would have to respect the threat of the run.
As it is currently, the Bengals get some good yards on the ground because they run by surprise, when the defense is expecting a pass. That needs to change. The simply have to be able to execute straight ahead and even complex running plays, even when the other team knows that it's coming. Until that commitment happens, Joe Burrow will continue to get battered and injured no matter who is playing OL.
They are way too dependent on big plays. They have the guys to do it, but that's not sustainable cap-wise.
As long as Joe is here, this will never be a run-heavy offense. That doesn't mean it shouldn't be run-capable. Last year when they went on the run, Perine was money picking up tough yards. They need that back. It shouldn't bee expensive to get that caliber of player to run those kinds of plays.
Volson needs replaced by a someone that can pull. The running back depth needs a major upgrade. The scheme needs to give defenses a reason to fear the run. Run until they prove they can stop it.
