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Bengals’ defense looking like it’s ready to rush
GEORGETOWN, Ky. — The evening practice session on Day 1 of Bengals training camp was all about the anticipated arrival of flamboyant receiver Terrell Owens. Fans had their popcorn ready and didn’t care about much else nor did some of the media. Owens received a hero’s welcome from the time his flight landed to when he walked onto the field. Enjoy it now T.O., because one dropped pass and these fans with turn on you like a rattlesnake. Aside from the spectacle, some football did take place.
Here are some of my observations from the practice:
The Bengals’ defense could be down right scary for opponents this season. They have a very talented bunch that swarm to the ball. Linebackers Rey Maualuga and Michael Johnson come from out of nowhere to rush the passer. Maualuga forced backup quarterback J.T. O’Sullivan into an errant throw with the heat of his pass-rush.
Jonathan Fanene showed his versatility lining up at both end and tackle. He generated a lot of penetration with a mighty bull rush into the offensive line.
Not sure who it was, but defensive tackle Tank Johnson blew up one of the interior O-lineman putting him on his fanny. The play happened so quickly all I saw were drawers in the sky.
Pac Man chompin’ at the bit
Cornerback Adam Jones isn’t the best cover guy in the world and certainly doesn’t match the cover skills of starters Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph. Jones plays a little wild at times and needs to become more disciplined. He has a tendency to rock back on his heels in anticipation of the snap. This allows receivers to get up on him and get him off balance. He must continue to fine-tune his overall technique.
On the flip side, Jones showed flashes of having play-making skills. You saw him run stride for stride with T.O. on a deep route, and break on a pass for a near interception on another play. He’s perfect for nickel and dime situations. But Jones is a gambler who must learn when to fold or the defense could get burned.
Side note: Good news for the Bengals and running back Cedric Benson. According to reports, Benson will not be suspended by Commissioner Roger Goodell for his recent incident in Texas.
Also, there is ongoing talk between the Bengals and representatives for first-round pick tight end Jermaine Gresham in an effort to get a deal done. Gresham will be an impact player in the team’s offense once they get him signed and on the field.
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Comments
By Waterboy
July 30, 2010 2:13 PM | Link to this
T.O.= Tired & Ordinary Fans will open up a can of Whoopa$$
By David
July 30, 2010 3:56 PM | Link to this
Betty White could force J.T. O’Sullivan into an errant throw…
By Peanut Butter
July 30, 2010 4:10 PM | Link to this
David, you have been watching one too many Snicker commercials. Big C, my sister-in-law was at Bengals training camp saw you and thinks you’re sexy. She’s single and works at UC in the Phys Ed dept. Just thought I’d let you know. Nice work!
By New QBS in Cincy
August 1, 2010 2:12 AM | Link to this
To David, I believe the same can be said about Carson “please don’t hit me, I’m afraid to plant my foot and throw the ball” Palmer. Every since his injury he has become the joke of starting QB’s which is sad, because he could be an elite QB. Until he starts planting that foot, throwing the ball and quits acting like he scared of every little thing, the Bengals will never reach full potential. Its sad cause they have spent the last few years getting the other 21 positions all figured out and in prime position to win a Super Bowl
By dude
August 1, 2010 8:48 AM | Link to this
Yep, getting close to football season again. Complaing already. Let’s dont forget exactly what Palmer did last year with what he had to work with. Of course, if you dont like the guy to start with, nothing he does is gonna please you.
By dale1
August 6, 2010 8:22 AM | Link to this
Palmer did not have protection last year which is why his passes were off. Everybody that knows anything about football saw this last season. The running game was good because they had an extra lineman but the lack of a good blocking FB and TE make it impossible to protect Palmer. Most QB can’t plant their feet when you only have 2 seconds to get rid of the ball. The short passes worked last year but all the long routes where stoped by the lack of protection of Palmer. I notices it immediately last season that this was the worst protection Palmer has ever had in his NFL career.