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Bengals' Benson unhappy, but why?

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By Carlos “Big C” Holmes, Staff Writer 3:22 PM Thursday, October 6, 2011

Reports are starting to circulate about Cincinnati Bengals running back Cedric Benson being unhappy in the offense.

Just when it looked like things were coming together for the dysfunctional organization, with Sunday’s 23-20 upset of the unbeaten Buffalo Bills a rallying point, now this.

What do we make of the latest? Here’s what I got...

During a locker room interview with Benson after Sunday’s win, one could sense some frustration but not to the level of being unhappy with the team. Benson seemed flummoxed regarding the team’s struggles on offense and was hesitant to speak on the matter.

“I’m not in the best mood to really talk about all that right now,” Benson said. “We started off rough in the first half and I didn’t know what we were doing. We were rotating a lot and I didn’t know what was going on. I don’t know. I really can’t comment on it.”

Despite the rotation and state of confusion, Benson played well, running like he was mad at the grass. He rushed for 104 yards on 19 carries, averaging 5.5 yards per attempt. The runner did his thing on the field but apparently was a little agitated about something afterward.

But what?

“It was challenging because even in your own corner of your ring you have all these things trying to knock you off course,” Benson said. “You have to find a way to fight through all that and still play your game regardless of what is thrown at you. Whether it be from the opposing team or your own corner.”

Not sure what he was getting at but it sounds like a case of the man, whoever that may be, trying to keep a player down. One thing is certain: Benson obviously had some things on his mind.

Now this is pure speculation, but maybe the running back was hoping to make the most of his opportunities and inch closer to earning his $1 million in incentives, which includes playing time, rushing yards and touchdowns, before facing suspension. Benson is appealing a possible three-game suspension by the league for a preseason assault charge.

I don’t know. Just sayin’. Hey, nothing wrong with being proactive.

Although Benson is faced with adversity once again, the seven-year pro remains a team player. During the brief interview he praised his offensive line and fullback Chris Pressley, who sat on the stool beside him, for their play. Benson hasn’t lost sight of the prize and believes in the team.

“We know how good we are and the potential we can reach,” he said. “It’s just tough sometimes and there are a lot of factors to winning football games. It’s not like track and field when it’s just you out there. We all just have to stay together and make things happen. Fans will see that on the field against Jacksonville (on Sunday).”

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