10-19-2015, 10:53 AM
(10-19-2015, 10:17 AM)hitchopottimus Wrote: It felt like the Buffalo game was a different sort of win for this year's team, which is kind of encouraging to see. Three major things stood out.
1) A slower start. First game this season they didn't score first, I believe. I liked seeing them overcome some early adversity. They've overcome adversity this season, but never early, and to me, it's psychologically a different thing. With late game issues, you can remind yourself how you played well early to help get your mind back on track. Early game issues you only have your general sense of confidence to fall back on against the feeling that the other team might just have your number today.
2. Dalton proved his "just okay" game this year is still pretty freaking good. Andy didn't have the dead-eye, perfect game he's had in some games this year. He floated some throws, hung Sanu out to dry on one screen, this is a game that in years past was easily looking to turn into a Bad Andy game. It never sppiralled, though. He pulled himself together, made solid throws and good decisions despite not having his best stuff in terms of pure accuracy.
3. AJ Green - The Bill's focused on him, and he didn't get much in the way of yardage and catches. Like a star, though, he found other days to impact the game, taking pressure off of Eifert and MLJ, and throwing a great block on Jones' TD catch and run.
How is a 115 QBR just okay?
AD did it when the other team took away AJ making his day more impressive.
Also, his deep pass to Jones was a thing of beauty and one heck of a play by Jones. The Bengals entire team is stepping up and helping make AD look great at times, but that does not take away what AD is accomplishing. He has been brilliant and add in yet another audible into a Gio run for his TD. AD is proving he may be Peyton Manning smart managing a game and that is impressive company to be even in this discussion.
I am so ready for 2024 season. I love pro football and hoping for a great Bengals year. Regardless, always remember it is a game and entertainment.