Observations After Week 5

[PApinhead]

(10-12-2015, 10:38 AM)SHRacerX Wrote: Even though this thread got derailed, I didn't want to start a new one just for observations about the game so here goes:

The Bengals defensive line is doing there job.  Every successful run, there was one gap that should have been filled by a LB or it was a cutback lane that wasn't filled by a LB.  Even when running in nickel, the LBs should have had first contact with the RB within 2 yards of the LOS.  I love Vinny Rey for what he has done to make this team and he is a tough, smart guy.  Hawk had some decent run support, but Rey M is lacking on instincts, big time.  This team needs Burfict and needs to start giving Dawson some snaps.  It screams poor LB play and it needs help.  I think Maualuga would be fine at SAM and our nickel package needs to get Dawson in there and, hopefully, Burfict before the end of the season.

The running game.  Gio ended with 80 yards on 15 carries, but J Hills 13 yards on 8 carries just isn't cutting the mustard.  I don't know if it is injury or what, but something is clearly wrong.  I know the kid has talent, and I think the line was giving him opportunities.  One more thing about J Hill:  The Bengals need to throw him the ball.  I think they did once deep down the sideline and despite him getting held, he REALLY made a great effort to get the ball instead of hoping for the penalty.  If he got a few more targets, I think defenses would have to soften up just a tad against the run.  It seems like they are just teeing off when Hill is in because they don't think of him the same way they think of Gio.

Dre Kirk needs to stop giving up on routes when he thinks the QB is down.  Got burned again.  Once, OK...twice, a problem.  Can't happen any more, Dre.  I don't want to hear "communication".  You got lazy, there was no underneath route to protect, you simply gave up and got burned again.  

Dennard is playing tougher and more "press" coverage, a la Adam Jones.  This guy needs to keep getting more snaps.   With the gigantic bust that Justin Gilbert is turning out to be this selection looks better every day.  

Brandon Thompson played his best game as a NFL player.  Great work, Yams.  (That's for you Truck)

Dalton is our franchise QB and will be for a LONG time.  Thank you, Andy.  You never listened to the "noise".  You just kept working and continued on the same trajectory you were on before last year's first year with Hue and the plethora of injuries.

Our coordinators are doing a fantastic job.

Brandon Tate gave us that one good play last week.  Stop thinking you are helping by bringing out a kick 9 yards deep.  The Bengals had starting field possessions of the 14, the 10, and the 16 because of your dumbass early in the game.  You are not going to shut up Colin Cowherd because Dalton had to overcome poor field position.  Just stop it.

Great post!!!  I'll make it easy and just say I agree with everything you said.  My biggest concern down the road is our LB play and Kirkpatrick.  They need to get things figured out real quick or they could be what derails this thing.