THE AUDIBLE COMMENTARY
Bengals' season: Plenty of blame to go around
Thursday, December 27, 2007
I will not be surprised if the Miami Dolphins win their second game of the season on Sunday. After all, they are playing the Bengals.
In fact, I would not be shocked to see the Cincinnati team just mail it in against the 1-14 Dolphins.
Extras
The Bengals, the team synonymous with underachieving, had their "super bowl" victory (notice the lowercase letters to rate the importance of the win) last week against the Browns.
Big deal. They spoiled the Browns' chance to sew up a playoff spot. That's some accomplishment for an entire season. Maybe next year, they can go all out and bring home another of those 8-8 seasons.
How did such a dismal season happen? You can place part of the blame with the selfish, immature Chris Henry and Odell Thurman. Both are talented and potential superstars. Both made stupid decisions, found themselves suspended and hurt their team.
But the owners and coaches get most of the blame. Pro football seasons are made in the offseason. And, as usual, the Bengals did not do enough to help the team improve in 2007.
While the Browns were rebuilding their offensive line, the Bengals did nothing. While the Browns picked up a force at running back, the Bengals went with status quo.
So I wasn't surprised when the Browns had a much-improved season and the Stripes slid backward.
And then there is the Bengals' defense. Are you as tired as I am watching every running back in the NFL waltz through the line untouched?
Bad offense, bad defense, bad owner, bad coaching ... bad season. Again.
Contact this reporter at 225-2409
or jmorris@DaytonDailyNews.com.
