Well, they're not the Bungles anymore. The Bengals after having been the laughing stock of the NFL for many years, have risen out of the ashes and become perennial contenders in the AFC division. With upstart QB Carson Palmer, a solid running game in Rudi Johnson, and a flashy, yet versatile WR in Chad Johnson, the offense has picked apart many good defenses in the league. They also boast a pretty good defense themselves, built by ex-Ravens Defensive Coordinator Marvin Lewis. They're actually pretty fun to watch. We'll need to focus on Palmer's comeback next year after a devastating leg injury early in the 2005 playoffs.
I see the Bengals as a solid addition to the NFL. I say addition because they have been nothing but the whipping boys of the NFL for so many years, its been comical really. There is a 15-20 year gap between the Ichy Woods Shuffle and the Bengals of today that makes Cincinnati fans writhe in revolt. Perhaps Lewis has them ready to be a real team for a while and really compete in this league. They do play with a chip on their shoulder which is good, since they do have something to prove.
Probably for the first time in many years, the Bengals can safely say they have no huge holes to fill on their team. They have traditionally had top 10 picks year in and year out, but this year their first round pick isn't till #24 and I don't think they mind that too much.
BENGALS STOP RAVENS FROM CLINCHING DIVISION
Playing with a chance to win a title, the Baltimore Ravens crossed midfield once in the first three quarters. Their fearsome defense got caught flat-footed by a sandlot play.
Ref. https://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/foot...s.ap/index.html
Chris Henry
CINCINNATI (AP) - Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry has been accused of punching an 18-year-old man in the face and breaking his car window with a beer bottle, according to court documents filed Wednesday. Henry, 24, was charged with misdemeanor assault and criminal damaging in the Monday incident in Cincinnati. A warrant for his arrest was issued in Hamilton County Municipal Court.
Ref. The Associated Press