This is a big one.
After a 0-3 start, the Cincinnati Bengals finally got into the win column last week.
This week, they take on the Baltimore Ravens, and if they can pull off the win, they’ll be in a surprisingly good position in the AFC North Divisional race. That, however, is not an easy task.
So, what do they need to do to beat the Ravens?
Stop the Run
The Ravens have been running wild, and the Bengals run defense has been leaking like a sieve. What could go wrong? The defensive interior really needs to step up in this one, and it looks like reinforcements could be on the way.
The Bengals got good play out of Kris Jenkins last week, and he should see an increased role. It looks like BJ Hill will be back, which would be huge for this defense. McKinnley Jackson could also make it back, but having had little practice in the NFL, it is hard to say how much he could contribute. Still, he could just go in there and be a massive human being, and that would be a good start for 5 to 10 plays.
Come Out Swinging
The Bengals can’t afford to start slow offensively. They have to march down the field on their first drive and get the score. It is going to be difficult for this banged-up defensive front to stop the Ravens run game. They must force them to play catchup in order to take pressure off the defense.
Win the Middle 8
Last week, the Panthers tied the game with just over a minute left in the first half. The Bengals still managed to score a touchdown before halftime and on the first possession of the second half. That is a 14-point swing, ladies and gentlemen. The Bengals need to win that portion of the game.
Red Zone
The Bengals were 3/3 in the red zone last week, with two scores from Chase Brown and another by Zack Moss. They must keep it up.
The Ravens will move the ball and accumulate yards. The Bengals must play them tight in the Red Zone to force a busy day for Justin Tucker.
Turnovers
Joe Burrow is absolutely cooking right now. The Bengals offense, with the addition of dynamic tight end play, a strong run game, and excellent pass protection, has been outstanding. Keep putting the ball in Joe’s hands, and good things will happen. Believe.
