Bengals fire Lou Anarumo, Frank Pollack, James Bettcher and Marion Hobby

[Speedy Thomas]

In the past, 5 straight to end the season would have been enough to bring back everyone. So credit to the FO for not falling for that fool's gold. It wasn't the dead cat bounce, but close enough, and in the past it would have been enough to maintain status quo.

Also, don't underestimate Burrow's influence on the front office. I suspect that he is quietly accomplishing what Palmer tried and failed at publicly.

Now in defense of Lou, he was handed a bucket of crap at the start of the year. No Reader, no Bates, washed up Hubbard. Then season ending injuries at every level -- back end, LB's, DL. Defensive improvement came from rookies and young players developing -- Jenkins, Jackson, Ossai, Newton, Battle all got better as the season went on, and they all got better together. Lou and defensive coaches deserve credit for that.

Regardless, it was time to change the defensive staff. Past time to dump Pollack.