How Physical Play Reduces Personal Fouls

[Fan_in_Kettering]

Okay, the headline is borderline "click bait" but at least I admit it.

Please understand what I'm saying below; I am not in any way, shape, or form advocating Cincinnati start taking cheap shots on defense -- not even against the Steelers. I'm not even suggesting the Bengals play like the Steelers -- but I fear for the defense if they don't put a little more energy into tackling and shedding blocks. More physical play from the entire defense will reduce the number of personal fouls the Bengals receive and here's why:

If the entire defense hits hard, it looks normal to the officials.

If only one or two players hit hard, the officials assume those players are playing dirty -- and the officials target those players.

Specific to the Cincinnati Bengals, if the entire defense starts laying wood and making ball carriers flinch, then what Vontaze Burfict, George Iloka, and Adam Jones do won't look out of place. Officials won't pull a flag!