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5 questions the Bengals face

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By Chick Ludwig, Staff Writer Updated 3:27 PM Friday, July 31, 2009

Here are five major questions that face the Bengals in 2009:

1. Will the offensive line jell?

The O-line wasn’t tweaked in the offseason. It was blown up and rebuilt. The only returning starters are right guard Bobbie Williams and left tackle Andrew Whitworth, who spent most of his three seasons at left guard. The pressure’s on center Kyle Cook, left guard Nate Livings and rookie right tackle Andre Smith.

2. Can QB Carson Palmer stay healthy?

He’s fully recovered from a severe right elbow injury that caused him to miss 12 games in 2008. The responsibility to keep him upright and protected falls on the line, backs and tight ends. One bad hit could ruin nine months of rehabilitation.

3. Can the defense pressure the QB?

With the additions of tackle Tank Johnson and rookie end Michael Johnson, plus the return of linebacker Keith Rivers from a fractured jaw, the Bengals get the inside-outside push necessary to generate more than their abysmal 17 sacks in 2008.

4. Will Chad Ochocinco be an asset or distraction?

Chad knows he behaved badly in 2008 when his trade demands fell on deaf ears. He claims he’s on a mission to earn his sixth Pro Bowl berth and help the Bengals reach the playoffs.

5. What’s new for 2009?

Watch for wide receiver Andre Caldwell in the “Wildcat” role. He’ll line up at QB, where he’ll have the option to run or pass. He’s a play-maker with the ball in his hands.

Contact this reporter at  cludwig@DaytonDailyNews.com.

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