The gulf between expectations and reality is wider now than ever before.
There’s not much left to say. The Cincinnati Bengals are exactly who they were before entering their Week 12 bye: a team that can score almost at will but features a defense incapable of stopping an effective offense. Despite making adjustments during the bye, the Bengals haven’t changed a thing.
Joe Burrow and the Bengals’ offense did their part, putting up 38 points against a strong Steelers defense. The Bengals’ defense, however, allowed the Steelers to score 44.
For context, no Steelers offense has scored more than 40 points in a game since 2018. This Steelers offense isn’t exceptional — they win games by playing strong defense and avoiding mistakes. But against the Bengals’ defense, they looked unstoppable.
The Bengals needed a win Sunday to salvage their season. They fell short, and their playoff chances are now all but dead. In truth, they were likely done weeks ago.
Of all the Bengals seasons I’ve watched, this one has the widest gulf between expectations and reality. Entering the season as a Super Bowl contender, the Bengals now find themselves a bad football team unworthy of the playoffs as Week 14 approaches.
The season is effectively over.
But the Bengals still have an opportunity to take steps that could position them for success in 2025. Here’s what they can and should do before the season ends:
1. Address the coaching staff
Some coaches need to go. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo bears significant responsibility for the poor defensive performance in 2024, though part of the blame lies with the front office’s inability to retain key players. Accountability is necessary, and while Zac Taylor likely won’t be fired, a new defensive coordinator and several position coaches on both sides of the ball are essential.
2. Experiment with the offensive line
The Cody Ford-at-guard experiment hasn’t worked. While benching Cordell Volson was a step, it didn’t yield results. The Bengals should try Matt Lee at center and move Ted Karras to guard. At worst, they’ll gain insight into Lee’s potential and a clearer path to better protecting Burrow.
3. Revamp scouting efforts
The Bengals’ recent draft history under Taylor and Duke Tobin has been hit-or-miss. For every standout pick like Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, or Tee Higgins, there are multiple failures, even in earlier rounds—Jackson Carman comes to mind. With substantial needs heading into 2025, better scouting is crucial.
4. Rotate younger players
Defensively, it’s time to give younger players, particularly in the secondary, more snaps. Safety Jordan Battle should see extended action. The position has been in disarray since Jessie Bates left, and it’s important to evaluate potential replacements.
These actions could provide valuable insights heading into 2025. If Lee works at center and Karras excels at guard, it simplifies decisions about where to invest in the offseason. This isn’t guesswork—it’s tangible progress.
The Zac Taylor Question
I’m not sure where I stand on Taylor’s future in Cincinnati. On one hand, the Bengals appear soft under his leadership. They crumble under adversity, which speaks to a cultural issue that Taylor, as head coach, is ultimately responsible for.
On the other hand, Taylor’s relationship with Burrow is strong, and any decision about his future should prioritize what’s best for the franchise quarterback. If firing Taylor benefits Burrow, then it must happen. If not, and I’m not sure it would, keep him as head coach and just replace certain coordinators and position coaches.
Random observations from the Steelers game:
- This was the first game I attended this season. Despite the defensive struggles, the first half was enjoyable, but the crowd’s energy vanished after Burrow’s fumble. That moment saw fans heading for the exits en masse.
- I noticed Matt Lee frequently as the sixth offensive lineman. Seeing him get on the field is promising.
- From the nosebleeds, the missed tackles were painfully obvious. This has been a significant issue all season and is Anarumo’s responsibility.
- Beyond Trey Hendrickson, there’s no consistent pass-rushing threat. Adding another pass rusher, either on the opposite edge or the interior, is critical for success in 2025.
As a former Bearcat, the University of Cincinnati’s marching band put on a great performance.
When I was a child, I caught a fleeting glimpse
Out of the corner of my eye
I turned to look, but it was gone
I cannot put my finger on it now
The child is grown, the dream is gone
