Joe Burrow rounds out the list with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Shocker, right?

But could D.J. Reader and/or Orlando Brown have made a case to beat out Higgins at No. 3 list?

In the final-ever edition of the Strictly Stripes Podcast, Mohammad Ahmad breaks down the top-three on the list and reads through the rest of the fan responses.

To all of our listeners, thank you for everything.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Chad Johnson and Boomer Esiason will be inducted into the Bengals Ring of Honor after season ticket holders respectively voted them into the Ring.

Arguably the front runners for the induction, they beat out 11 other players on the ballot.

But why were their selections so impactful? And who's up next in 2024?

The Strictly Stripes crew talks about their selections and continues breaking down the top half of the Top 25 Bengals for 2023.

This podcast feautres Mohammad Ahmad.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The Bengals are exactly a week away from their first practice of training camp. There's no shortage of roster battle and new faces on defense who will look to set their marks early.

How many offensive linemen do the Bengals keep? Which backup wide receivers will make the team? Will we see first-team reps for rookie Chase Brown?

Special guest Mike Petraglia joins the Strictly Stripes Podcast to look at how the Bengals' philosophy has shifted in the Joe Burrow era and what that means for training camp.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Bengals veteran wideout Tyler Boyd is No. 9 on our Top 25 Bengals for 2023. Meanwhile, Logan Wilson, now entering his fourth season, is hanging tight at No. 10. Both players are worthy of being top-10 players.

But does experience matter more than youth in these rankings?

Boyd will turn 29 this year as he enters his eighth season while Wilson continues ascending. They'll each be entering contract seasons, meaning more eyes will be on both of them.

The Strictly Stripes podcast compares and contrasts the potential for Boyd and Wilson.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Hubbard provides no shortage of big time moments for the Bengals and is primed to continue doing so in 2023. That's why he's No. 11 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023.

But should those big time moments have him ranked up higher on the list?

He's entering his sixth year with the team and will have an increased leadership role. His role will be critical in fueling the Bengals' hunger for another trip back to the Super Bowl.

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at what Hubbard is capable of and what he can do to continue boosting his profile and stock in 2023.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad.

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Then, Andrew talks about the latest entrant into our Top 25 Bengals for 2023, linebacker Germaine Pratt.

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But which team had the best offseason?

Andrew Gillis and Jimmy Watkins get together to talk about the Bengals, Browns, Steelers and Ravens, and what to make of their last few months of player and coach acquisition. What do we think of the division headed into the 2023?

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Andrew Gillis and Mohammad Ahmad join Mary Kay Cabot, Ashley Bastock join Dan Labbe from our Browns beat for the annual tradition of drafting quarterbacks.

The intrigue, of course, is where Joe Burrow and Deshaun Watson land. The five go through three rounds, picking 15 quarterbacks and discuss each one. How high does Burrow go in the top five? How much are we betting on Watson's return to pre-Cleveland form?

Check out our draft on this special crossover edition of the Orange and Brown Talk and Strictly Stripes podcast.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Andrew Gillis joins our Browns reporters, Dan Labbe and Mary Kay Cabot, as part of the annual tradition of an NFL head coach mock draft through the Orange and Brown Talk Podcast.

Is Zac Taylor worthy of being called a Top 10 head coach? And how close is Kevin Stefanski to Taylor in the coaching ranks? Is the gap wider than it might actually seem?

Check out our draft on this special crossover edition of the Orange and Brown Talk and Strictly Stripes podcast.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Andrew Gillis joins our Browns reporters, Dan Labbe and Ashley Bastock, to look at which respective positional groups in Cleveland and Cincinnati stick out as the best of the best in the AFC North right now. They draft what they think are the best positional groups in the division to build the most talented team possible.

Where does the Bengals' offense line match up compared to the Browns' talented front? And do Ja'Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins still have the right to boast the top receiving trio in the division?

Check out our draft on this special crossover edition of the Orange and Brown Talk and Strictly Stripes podcast.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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From coining the infamous "Burrowhead" term to his other memorable quotes, Hilton has backed up his talking on the field as one of the best slot cornerbacks in the NFL.

More remarkable than his ascension as a former undrafted free agent is the fact that he's been able to provide value for over seven seasons as he enters his third season in Cincinnati. Lou Anarumo values Hilton's play just as he does with all of his cornerbacks.

Hilton's leadership, wittiness and hard-hitting plays land him at No. 13 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023. How much higher should Hilton be though? Is No. 13 an adequate ranking for the veteran corner?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at Hilton's status and value in the defensive backfield and contrasts that to other defenders on the list.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Volson is no longer a rookie and his massive size and strength aren't going anywhere. The North Dakota-built behemoth has a chance to take off in 2023 with his 6-foot-7 frame between Orlando Brown Jr. and Ted Karras.

There were a lot of growing pains for Volson but he slowly but surely found his stride. That's why he's ranked No. 14 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023 thanks to his upside.

Will his upside continue proving the Bengals' lofy expectations on the offensive line?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at where Volson can improve and how he can build off of his success from his rookie season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

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Bengals center and team captain Ted Karras made a strong first impression in Cincinnati last season and can very well capitalize on that in 2023. Karras was one of the best blockers protecting Joe Burrow in his first season with the team.

His role won't change and that's why he's No. 15 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023. On and off the field, Karras is a key cog in the Bengals' offense that Zac Taylor will lean into this season.

How much more does Karras need to prove though? Has he proved himself to be one of the best at his position, or, if not, where and how can he get even better?

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down Karras' success last year and how good he can be in 2023 while determing how much that factors into his ranking.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Sometimes special teams stars can get overlooked, especially on the championship contending team like the Bengals. But as the Bengals' kicker, he's a big reason why the team has made the Super Bowl and why they can get back.

He's already drawn comparisons to future Hall of Famer and divisional rival Justin Tucker. "Money Mac" and "Shooter McPherson" are some of the many nicknames McPherson has earned from fans for his early success.

How much of that success is warranted to put him at No. 16 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023?

The Strictly Stripes Podcast debates whether McPherson's positional value outweighs his overall value to rank as high as he does on the list. They also compare and contrast him to other big name starters below him on the list, like running back Joe Mixon.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

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Mixon, entering his seventh season with the team, is still on track to start once more behind quarterback Joe Burrow. His rushing numbers last season didn't match his 2021 Pro Bowl season despite setting career highs in the receiving game.

Although Mixon is No. 17 on the Top 25 Bengals entering this season, he's aging as he'll be 27 at the start of training camp. Rookie Chase Brown and veteran backup Trayveon Williams might both be staring him down for more snaps this season too.

How fast is the clock ticking on Mixon's time in Cincinnati? Will his 2023 season determine whether or not he makes it for another year in 2024?

The Strictly Stripes Podcast forecasts Mixon's outlook past this season and guesses how well he needs to perform to maintain continuity with the Bengals.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

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Taylor-Britt already enters a new chapter in his very young NFL career. After taking over as a full-time starter late last season for the Bengals, he'll keep his starting role following the departure of Eli Apple. That means the expectations only get higher from here for Taylor-Britt.

But Taylor-Britt looks built for the task.

His postseason performances spoke for themselves in Buffalo and Kansas City last year. If Taylor-Britt continues building off of those confident performances, the Bengals secondary might get a big boost in 2023.

The Strictly Stripes crew talks about why Taylor-Britt was ranked No. 18 on the Bengals' Top 25 list for 2023 and how the list has shaped thus far.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Williams returns to Cincinnati as the team's likely starting right tackle but he still has to earn that job first. He still hasn't heard from the team front office on the move that was made to move him to right tackle, which can have ranging implications for next season.

He'll be playing at right tackle for the first time since his freshman year at Alabama. How will Williams respond to such a move? Does he thrive on the right side, or will the Bengals' woes continue at that spot?

Williams is at No. 19 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023 list. How much does his move over to the right impact his rank on the list?

The Strictly Stripes crew debates whether or not Williams' shift on the line dictates his ranking on the list and his capabilities for next season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Veteran safety Nick Scott is going to have to take a big lead and a big leap next season as he helps lead the charge in the Bengals' safety room. Teams will try to test Scott and first-year starter Dax Hill next season.

Will Scott meet the task and protect the Bengals' success in the red zone? Red zone efficiency was the calling card of then-safeties Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell. Scott is going to have to pick up where the duo left off last season.

Scott sits at No. 20 on our Top 25 Bengals of 2023 list. Did Scott's ranking land him right in the sweet spot? Or is that too high of a listing for the relatively inexperienced star?

The Strictly Stripes crew weighs in on Scott's ranking compared to other stars on the list and looks at how his past success can help him next season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The veteran Bengals defensive tackle, entering his sixth season in the NFL, played some of the highest total snaps amongst his teammates. Cincinnati will need the most out of Hill next season alongside his standout teammate, D.J. Reader.

Since joining the Bengals via trade in 2021, his presence hasn't gone unnoticed in the trenches, which is why he's ranked at No. 21 on our Top 25 Bengals for 2023. That ranking might seem low, but is it?

The Strictly Stripes crew answers that question and looks what a successful season should - and should not - look like next season for Hill. They also continue reading more fun responses from Bengals fans.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Smith has some big shoes to fill in place of Hayden Hurst who left the team in free agency back in March. He'll be more than just the fourth option for Bengals quarterback in 2023 though.

Hurst's impact on the offense was felt as a receiving threat and Smith will need to replicate that same energy. Smith will have a chance at redemption after being mostly injury-ridden in each of his last two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings.

What does a successful season look like for Smith? Will it have to look more like what Hurst put together last season or more akin to former Bengal C.J. Uzomah instead?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at Smith's No. 22 ranking on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023 list and determines what Smith needs to do in his first season as a Bengal.

Louisville wide receivers coach Garrick McGee joins the podcast to talk about coaching Charlie Jones at Purdue last season in an exclusive phone interview.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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The Bengals safety is going to become a surefire starter in 2023 and will do so without much veteran help by his side. Hill loses veteran safety Vonn Bell but will have new addition Nick Scott by his side.

Hill won't have much time to waste learning his new role because he will likely be tested by opposing offenses. The second-year star can't afford to look like a rookie making rookie mistakes.

Hill lands at No. 23, no pun intended, on our Top 25 Bengals for 2023, just cracking the list. Is Hill in the right spot? Or does he deserve more praise?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at whether or not Hill is ranked too high or too low on the list, and whether or not he makes a strong enough case to be ranked in the Top 20.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Murphy won't be a starter in 2023, but his reps will be valuable. The Bengals desperately need juice in the pass rush and that's what he brings to the table.

Will he mostly get reps on third down? Does he come in for Trey Hendrickson or for Sam Hubbard?

Furthermore, what does defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo expect from his young but talented prospect? And what should a successful season look like for Murphy's rookie year?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at Murphy's No. 24 ranking on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023 list and decides what expectations are worthwhile for Murphy's position.

Former Illinois running back coach and current Purdue wide receivers coach Cory Patterson joins the podcast to talk about the process of coaching Bengals' rookie running back Chase Brown in college.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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After a rocky start to the first half of the 2022 season, Collins eventually found his groove during the Bengals' eight-game win streak to close the regular season. He tore his ACL in Week 16 at New England and is still recovering from that injury with the offseason workouts in the books.

Collins was considered a cap casuality going into next year but all signs point to him being a Cincinnati Bengal in 2023. That's why he was ranked at No. 25 on cleveland.com's Top 25 Bengals for 2023 list.

But will Collins even be ready for Week 1? And if he is, will he see much of the field, enough for him to make the list?

The Strictly Stripes crew debates whether Collins should've ever been on this list and if he's not getting enough credit like he deserves.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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In five weeks, the Bengals will return back to Cincinnati to report for training camp with the goal of making another run to the Super Bowl. Competition battles are set, the stakes are high and the championship window is in prime position for quarterback Joe Burrow.

What did mandatory minicamp mean for their championship hopes though?

Several players shined with the few reps that they got whilst other didn't do anything to change their prospects for the 2023 season. Who were they and why?

The Strictly Stripes crew closes the book on the Bengals' offseason workouts and sets the stage for the summer leading into training camp.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Burrow has marketed himself in a variety of categories and endeavors using his name and image as a powerful brand. Through a series of endorsements and investments, Burrow has already capitalized on his brand financially.

What's his strategy though? How does he put his plan together?

That's a question that Burrow can best answer himself, but there are strategists and experts who can best explain the idea of how it comes together.

Mohammad Ahmad joins two sports marketing strategists, Todd Fischer and Joe Favorito, as they talk about how and why athletes like Burrow have a specific plan.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and special guests Todd Fischer and Joe Favorito.

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Logan Wilson's softball game put that on full display on Wednesday. Backup players like Joe Bachie wouldn't pass through most people's minds when thinking of superstars in Cincinnati.

He proved those people wrong with his grand slam performance at the plate.

Some stars were multisport athletes before they became stars in the NFL.

So who are the most athletic stars on the Bengals? And what can their potential become?

The Strictly Stripes crew has fun with this edition of the podcast and looks at the most talented Bengals stars away from the gridiron.

Special teams star and linebacker Markus Bailey also joins the podcast to talk about his unique role.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

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The Bengals' offensive tackle publicly spoke for the first time in over five months following a knee injury that sidelined him for his team's postseason's run. And after the addition of Orlando Brown Jr. in free agency, Williams requested a trade due to what he describes as a breakdown in communication.

Now that Williams has given his side, why did the Bengals not stay in tune with Williams?

Head coach Zac Taylor will be asked about that on Thursday, but, regardless of what the Bengals' front office did, was Williams dealt an unfair hand with how everything unfolded.

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down the timeline of the Williams' trade request from March to today and looks at what that means for the Bengals' offensive line.

Bengals veteran wideout Tyler Boyd joins the podcast to talk about the latest chapter of his life as a pro and a dad.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Cincinnati holds its mandatory minicamp this week before shutting things down unitl training camp at the end of July. This will be the last glimpse that anyone will have of the Bengals' state of affair for well over a month.

There's still much to be settled ahead of training camp. From the status of various injuries and implications surrounding multiple looming extensions, there will be lots to watch this week.

How important are these said implications this week?

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down the biggest questions surrounding the Bengals this week.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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The Bengals are primed to be Super Bowl contenders because of their visible superstars like Joe Burrow, Sam Hubbard and Ja'Marr Chase to name a few.

But not solely because of their visible superstars.

Unsung stars like Cam Taylor-Britt, Joseph Ossai and Alex Cappa are some of the many players who helped the Bengals get to this and will continue playing key roles in 2023. Even those three aren't alone.

Special contributor Lance Reisland joins the Strictly Stripes crew to look at where the Bengals' underrated strengths lie next season and he looks at the gap between Joe Burrow and Jalen Hurts.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Lance Reisland.

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Hurts received a vote for MVP last year and already inked a big time contract this offseason. Burrow is a favorite to win the award next season and is on his way to getting his own mega-extension.

Both players have already played in the Super Bowl in each of the last two years and nearly went head-to-head in this past year's big game. And, they just might meet in next year's Super Bowl.

How far can Hurts close the gap with Burrow? Will he make a bigger leap than Burrow next year?

The Strictly Stripes crew compares and contrasts the different trajectories of Burrow and Mahomes and where they might land next season.

Bengals guard Alex Cappa joins the crew to talk about the next chapter of protecting Burrow.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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All four quarterbacks in the dvision have the potential to make a big jump heading into 2023. Who will make the biggest jump? Joe Burrow? Deshaun Watson? Kenny Pickett? Lamar Jackson?

And are the Bengals cathching up with the strength of the Browns' offensive line?

All four teams shuffled up their defensive backfields and either maintained or juiced up the defensive trenches up front. Who has the better net growth on defense and how far will that take either team next year?

The Strictly Stripes crew ranks, debates and discusses the different strengths and weaknesses of all four AFC teams and sees where the Bengals fit.

Kicker Evan McPherson also breaks down what his offseason looks like and how he wants to get better in his third season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis, Michael Niziolek and special guest Jimmy Watkins.

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Rookies D.J. Turner and Jordan Battle got some light but valuable first-team reps in during organized team activities this week. Several other rookies, like Myles Murphy, showed their earliest flashes with other looks during the activies as well.

Cincinnati's offense won't look too different in 2023 but it will change in the backfield as Chase Brown and Trayveon Williams got more reps alongside quarterback Joe Burrow.

How different will things look in both the offensive and defensive backfield entering training camp?

The Strictly Stripes Podcast looks at the biggest takeaways for the Bengals during their organized team acitvities this week as they look ahead to mandatory minicamp next week.

Bengals cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt also joins the podcast for a special chat in the locker room.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Taylor enters his fifth season as the Bengals' head coach. After two dismal seasons with and without Joe Burrow, he's helped lead the Bengals to unprecedented heights, including a Super Bowl berth and back-to-back conference championship games.

How much of that credit belongs to Taylor?

Taylor not only has one of the best offenses in the NFL, but he's also got coaching continuity by his side. Is that enough to call him a Top 10 playcaller in the AFC, or let alone, the NFL?

The Strictly Stripes crew ranks the ten best head coaches in the AFC and looks at where Taylor fits in the puzzle.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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The third-year Bengals receiver has already been named to two Pro Bowls and was an All-Pro selection his rookie year after being named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He's benefitted greatly from having Joe Burrow throwing him the ball dating back to their LSU days.

Can Chase say he's the best receiver in the game?

His former college teammate, Justin Jefferson, has been terrorizing the Minnesota Vikings' opponents. Cooper Kupp, Tyreek Hill, Stefon Diggs, Davante Adams and Mike EVans are some of many receivers who are still some of the best at their respective crafts.

The Strictly Stripes crew gives their take on who the Top 10 receivers in the NFL are and where Chase fits in the puzzle.

Bengals defensive end Joseph Ossai also joins the podcast for a 1-on-1 chat on his injury rehab progress this offseason.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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The team is wrapping up offseason training with organized team activities and mandatory minicamp later this month. Rookies like Myles Murphy, Jordan Battle and Charlie Jones, along with free agent signees like Orlando Brown Jr. will show off their skills in those respective activities.

Who will stand out? And who should stand out this offseason?

The impact those aforementioned names will have is yet to be seen or know. But how much of a difference do those moves mean up to this point?

Content creator and analyst Joe Goodberry joins the Strictly Stripes podcast crew as he breaks down what to expect from the Bengals in 2023 based on their latest moves.

Bengals safety Nick Scott also talks about his introduction to Cincinnati in a 1-on-1 chat.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and special guest Joe Goodberry.

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They were supposed to face him when they head to Arizona for a Week 5 matchup. But he was cut by the Cardinals last weekend, making him a hot commodity on the free agent market.

Could they still face him anyway though? Hopkins would be an ideal fit for many of the Bengals' 2023 opponents, like the Browns, Chiefs, Ravens and Bills among others.

His production and future potential are still big question marks for the 12th year receiver. Anything can happen though and the Bengals should take notice.

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the best fits for Hopkins and where that might impact the Bengals.

Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill joins the podcast for a funny 1-on-1 conversation.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns have both been busy this offseason. Cleveland focused its efforts on making big spending decisions in free agency while the Bengals attacked the NFL Draft from top to bottom.

What separated the Browns from the Bengals were two respective trades they made for Elijah Moore and Za'Darius Smith. Does that still give the Browns a leg up on the Bengals?

By adding Orlando Brown Jr, the Bengals' offensive line will remain as competitive, but, how competitive? As competitive as the Browns' premier offensive line?

And can Deshaun Watson narrow the gap between himself and Joe Burrow?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at how who's been winning the offseason 'Battle of Ohio.' With Tyler Boyd returning to voluntary workouts in Cincinnati this offseason, the crew discusses what his future could look like with the Bengals.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Michael Niziolek and special guest Dan Labbe.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Most teams are working through their organized team activities and the Bengals will have theirs coming up in the first week of June. For the Bengals, these workouts are far from competitive, but they’re setting the stage for training camp with the hope of being one of the best offenses in the NFL.

The Bengals have the tools to play like a top five offense, but the question is how well they can materialize their resources into playing like one.

Concerns surrounding the run game without Samaje Perine and the tight end position without Irv Smith Jr. have led several former coaches and critics, like former longtime NFL head coach Mike Martz, to question if the Bengals really are capable of playing like a top five offense.

Are those concerns as valid as they seem? And are teams ranked ahead of the Bengals actually top five offenses?

The Strictly Stripes crew examines Martz’s claims and other claims that the Bengals aren’t a top five offense and looks at how accurate they are or aren’t. Rookie punter Brad Robbins joins the crew as a special guest.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Both quarterbacks operated similarly when the pocket collapsed in 2022. Whether that came through scrambling, making acrobatic throws or operating with third down efficiency, they both showed why they're two of the league's best passers.

Mahomes has more fourth-quarter comebacks and game winning drives than Burrow. However, Burrow had a game winning drive of his own when he met Mahomes in the playoffs for the first time ever.

Does that mean that Burrow is the better quarterback in crunch time? Or does the reigning league MVP Mahomes have something to say about that.

The Strictly Stripes crew engages in a "Who Dey-bate" like discussion to decide when and where they would rather have their Mahomes or Burrow.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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They had the third-worst pass rush percentage (5.08%) in the NFL last year and had the fourth-fewest sacks (30). Seeing the writing on the wall, Myles Murphy was drafted in the first round to help fix that.

Assuming D.J. Reader, Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard can all avoid injury time, and if Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt build on their success, there's good reason to think that they can have more than 30 sacks.

How many more sacks though?

More pressing questions surrounding how well the Bengals can defend the pass surround Nick Scott and Dax Hill. Will the safety duo replicate enough of the success that Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell left behind? What is the bare minimum of production they need to have a good year.

The Strictly Stripes crew sets the benchmarks that the Bengals' defense should achieve in 2023. Hill also joins the podcast as a special guest.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Quarterback Joe Burrow threw for nearly identical amounts of touchdowns, interceptions and passing yards in 2022 relative to 2021. His wide receiver core of Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd can say the same with their combined statistics between 2021 and 2022.

With a new offensive line featuring Orlando Brown Jr, the "glass eaters" can eat more glass than ever.

What will running back Joe Mixon do without Samaje Perine by his side? How well can he build off of his numbers from last year with the hope of possibly redeeming himself in 2023?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at how far the Bengals offense can take off in 2023 and what they're capable of doing with their new weapons.

Second-year left guard Cordell Volson joins the podcast for a brief 1-on-1 chat.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Once the team hits organized team activities and mandatory minicamp, the pressure will heat up leading up to training camp. That's going to be especially true for several players who aren't guaranteed to make the team before the 2023 season.

Several players are on the bubble of getting cut, some have a toss-up chance of making the team while others will make the team with ease but could be at risk for getting cut in 2024.

Multiple veterans will look to fight for spots on the 53-man roster in very bloated positional groups like offensive tackle and defensive end.

The Strictly Stripes crew lists the players who are the most vulnerable for getting cut and how they can save their roles on the team ahead of and during training camp.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Allen earned a runner-up vote for league MVP while Burrow made a strong case for the award and has primed himself to be a top candidate for the award next season. Burrow got the best of Allen in the playoffs last season but Allen was nursing a partially torn UCL in his throwing arm at the end of the year.

Both passers have elite receivers and lead some of the best offenses in the NFL. What makes Burrow and Allen similar? Will one beat out the other next season in terms of stat categories, wins or other areas?

Better yet, which quarterback has better odds to win MVP?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at a side-by-side comparison of the best stats between Burrow and Allen in 2022. Using those stats, they project where either quarterback will end up next season.

The crew also catches up with rookie wide receiver Charlie Jones in a 1-on-1 chat.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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In the most high-pressure situations, Burrow still finds a way to keep himself and his team collected. The moment is never too big or too small for Burrow. Whether that's a game against a winless opponent or the Super Bowl, Burrow has mostly met expectations.

The trickle effect is obvious as seen by his teammates' performances and the culture shift in Cincinnati.

But how did Burrow become the face of the franchise and one of the league's faces? What goes through his head as he's locked in and focused on the prize at hand.

University of Cincinnati leadership expert and professor Laurens Steed joins the Strictly Stripes Podcast to break down the many layers that makes Burrow an effective, skilled leader.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and special guest Laurens Steed.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The Bengals wide receiver wants to set and break as many records as he can entering just his third season in the NFL. He's already a Top 10 receiver in Bengals history but now his goal is to firmly etch his way as a Top 5 receiver in team history.

Most sportsbooks and oddsmaker haven't thought far enough to predict what Chase can do in 2023. Is it ever too early to predict what Chase is capable of though? Of course not.

Two years of experience provides enough data to have insight as to how far Chase can go with quarterback Joe Burrow still by his side. Can he put up big numbers even with Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd by his side?

The Strictly Stripes crew sets the line on what Chase is capable of producing next season. They predict whether Chase goes over/under the virtual lines.

Rookie running back Chase Brown also joins the crew for a moving one-on-one chat.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The Bengals are continuing their ongoing contract negotiations with quarterback Joe Burrow. Burrow is actively involved in his negotiations and has a clear picture of what he's looking for in his extension. Part of that includes using Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase as a focal point for how his deal is set up.

Does Burrow's deal mimic the one Jalen Hurts got last month?

Sure, Burrow might not literally leave money on the table, but he might be willing to have a flexible enough deal that allows for Higgins, Chase and even Logan Wilson to get inked.

The Strictly Stripes crew determines whether or not Burrow's approach will pay off for himself and the team in the long run.

Long snapper Cal Adomitis joins the show for an exclusive one-on-one interview as he breaks down his offseason routine.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Rookies are fully settled into the confines of Paycor Stadium, the second phase of voluntary workouts are underway and organized team activities and mandatory minicamps are just about a month away. All of this means that the intensity and competition of the offseason is heating up.

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase are connecting again in practice. Now they'll look to replicate that same rhythm and connection with everyone else on the roster, including new faces.

How will new faces like Charlie Jones, Trevor Siemian and Chase Brown fare with the rest of the veterans? Will undrafted rookies like Jaxson Kirkland have a real shot at making the roster?

The Strictly Stripes crew sets the stage for how the rest of the offseason will play out all the way into training camp as workouts intensify. They go through the entire roster and do a 53-man reset.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Part of the cost that comes with winning is facing tougher challenges through and through. Their schedule got harder than the prior season when the Bengals reached the Super Bowl. In a loaded AFC, things don't get any easier either.

Part of the silver lining of such a grueling schedule is four prime-time games but the caveat is mostly playing teams that are strong Super Bowl contenders in those games.

How much can the Bengals afford to start 0-2 like last year? Should the Bengals have their third-straight 5-4 start on the season, will they actually be able to overcome that type of start this time?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at all 17 of the Bengals' upcoming matchups in 2023 and assesses what makes their schedule easier -- or harder -- than last year's slate.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson have each respectively helped reset the quarterback market this offseason with their new deals. Jackson is currently the league's highest paid player with his new deal that pays him $52 million per year on his five-year extension.

That leaves big name stars like Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert waiting to get paid this offseason. Both players saw their respective fifth-year options get extended but are working toward long term deals.

Will Burrow land a five-year deal like Hurts and Jackson? Or will he go for a longer deal just like Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes?

The Strictly Stripes crew analyzes the numbers behind Jackson's deal and looks at where Burrow's extension might fit in relation to that. They also look at how players like Mahomes can shape Burrow's deal.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The only restriction is that you can't pick All-Pro and/or Pro Bowl players who have become household names. So that means, T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett, Nick Chubb and Mark Andrews among others are all off of the table.

But what David Njoku? Kyle Hamilton? Alex Highsmith? Would they fit well with the Bengals?

Although there's a good chance neither of those names would become a Bengal, it's not like players from other AFC North teams haven't landed with the Bengals.

Current cornerback Mike Hilton is a former Steeler, Larry Ogunjobi spent a season in Cincinnati after a year in Cleveland and legendary Steelers linebacker James Harrison briefly played for the Bengals after coming from Pittsburgh and heading back there.

The Strictly Stripes crew drafts the best non-Pro Bowl and All-Pro players in the AFC North who would have an underrated impact with the Bengals.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Joe Mixon is the presumptive running back for the Bengals but how will the offense look behind Mixon? Rookie Chase Brown will compete for the backup role behind Mixon but he has to fill Samaje Perine's big shoes.

Irv Smith Jr. appears to be primed to be the lead tight end following Hayden Hurst's departure. He brings health concerns after suffering multiple injuries during his previous stint with the Vikings. Are the Bengals going to rely on him, Drew Sample and Devin Asiasi?

Or will the Bengals look to add one more body in tight end room?

The Strictly Stripes podcast crew discusses what people might be getting wrong about Cincinnati's offense. Is Joe Burrow really primed for an MVP season in 2023? Projecting Burrow's season, the crew looks at what's working with and against Burrow this offseason.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Cincinnati is still the betting favorite to win their third consecutive division title with a chance to go to their second Super Bowl in three seasons. The conference still runs through the defending world champion Chiefs but both teams will have a chance to prove one another wrong next year.

Adding Myles Murphy gives them much needed juice in the pass rush. Joe Burrow is still a top contender to win MVP next season. A lot of turnover caught up to the Bengals this offseason, but they have a chance to make up for it in 2023.

Are the Bengals truly the favorites that some have made them out to be though?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the biggest storylines behind the Bengals' 2023 expectations and fliters though the ones that make the most sense. With the NFL schedule release looming, they also predict when and how the Bengals and Chiefs will meet next season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Reisland and Mohammad Ahmad go through a thorough pick-by-pick analysis of the Bengals’ picks and explain how and why they were or weren’t the right selections on draft day.

After breaking down each pick, they also talk about whether the Bengals passed up on big-name players in the first two days of the NFL Draft last week.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and special guest Lance Reisland.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The NFL Draft is now in the books which means that teams can take stock as to where their respective passing attacks stand. Cincinnati will have a bolstered passing attack with the addition of fourth-round pick Charlie Jones. Tee Higgins, Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd aren't going anywhere in 2023.

The trio of Higgins, Chase and Boyd, led by quarterback Joe Burrow, has been one of the best trios in all of football in each of the last two seasons. Will the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs be right on their tail?

Better yet, will the Bengals still dominate the AFC North with Lamar Jackson sticking around for at least five more years?

The Strictly Stripes crew ranks the top-seven passing offenses in the AFC following the NFL Draft.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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That only makes sense given how many players the Bengals drafted on that side of the ball during last week's NFL Draft. Five of the Bengals' eight draft picks will look to contribute to helping fill a lot of short- and long-term holes.

The most impact based on who was and wasn't drafted comes on the defensive line. But is that impact mostly good or bad? And who does that impact directly affect the most?

With the dust settled on the draft, there's a clearer picture of what training camp battles will look like this summer for the Bengals' defense.

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down who the biggest winners and losers are for the Bengals' defense after the NFL Draft. Looking at each position, they examine how the draft impacts those respective spots now and down the road.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Several players need to be ready to compete for their jobs with several offensive additions like Charlie Jones and Chase Brown in the NFL Draft. Others, meanwhile, can take a sigh of relief after the Bengals didn't draft a tight end or an offensive tackle among other positions last weekend.

But how competitive will certain positional battles be in training camp?

Right tackle Jonah Williams wasn't traded during or ahead of the draft but that doesn't rule out a potential future trade. What does this mean for himself and others on the Bengals' offensive line?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the biggest winners and losers of the Bengals' offense after this year's NFL draft. Looking at the winners and losers, they break down and compare each of them.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Other than trading down in the third round and acquiring an additional sixth-round pick, their picks didn't change. They yielded eight draft picks over the weekend, mostly on the defensive side.

That plays into the Bengals' strategy of building a younger, fresher defense with the hope of building long term depth. Did the Bengals' pick the best players they could during each round?

By drafting the players that that drafted, did they possibly pass up some of top-tier players in the process?

The Strictly Stripes crew goes through all eight of the Bengals' draft picks, grades them and puts a bow on this year's draft class. They also look at certain positions that weren't addressed at all in the draft.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Three picks yield three defensive players much like last year. In 2022, the Bengals’ first three draft picks were defenders. A year later, they select edge rusher Myles Murphy, cornerback DJ Turner II and safety Brian Branch in that order.

The strategy is simple: Build up a young defense through the draft and lean on that in the short and long term.

Have the Bengals built up that defense yet? Is Cincinnati in a position where they can win now and later with the players they’ve picked in the last two years?

By focusing on defense in the first three rounds, the Bengals passed up several big-name offensive players like Michael Mayer and Darnell Washington. Time will tell if the gamble pays off.

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down the Bengals’ first three draft picks and looks at whether or not they passed up on some big name players. They also give a brief preview of what Day 3 of the draft will look like.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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By drafting Clemson edge rusher Myles Murphy, Cincinnati can improve on its lack of success in the pass rush that could’ve kept them from reaching that elusive Super Bowl championship. He’s a true third-down edge rusher who can help the Bengals win now.

That’s exactly what they needed in the first round.

Lots of chips and dominoes had to fall before Murphy was able to land where he did as late as he did. But the Bengals had him high on their board and their patience paid off.

What does a Bengals defensive front look like with Murphy in the mix?

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down everything about Murphy’s game and how he can help supplement Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard in the trenches for Cincinnati. They also look ahead to what Day 2 of the NFL Draft presents for the Bengals.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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With under 24 hours remaining before the start of the draft, the Bengals will have to figure out how to dominate the first round in order to win the rest of the weekend. What happens in the first round could very well dictate how successful the team will be Friday and Saturday.

This isn't just any other draft. The Bengals could easily be a player or two away from winning the Super Bowl if all holds well together. So how aggressive do the Bengals need to be in the first round?

The Strictly Stripes crew gives their final analysis on how the first round could and should play out for the Bengals on Thursday. They also look back at the 2020 and 2021 draft results for the Bengals and assess what the present would look like if Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase weren't drafted by Cincinnati.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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In just over 48 hours, the franchise's future will take shape as the team figures out who they are and aren't picking in this year's NFL Draft. Will they trade up? Will they trade down? They haven't shied away from trading down just like they did back in 2021 with their second-round pick and other previous drafts.

What happens in the draft could also have a ripple effect at right tackle. Cincinnati is bloated at the right tackle spot but a first-round pick could change the depth at that position. All of that is of course contingent on La'el Collins' health and Jonah Williams' future.

The Strictly Stripes crew puts the pieces together on how the Bengals' draft board is shaping together. They also look at what the future of right tackle holds in 2023.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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All 32 teams' draft boards are now taking shape with their final needs and projections in mind. Whether the top ten is mostly filled with quarterbacks or there's sneaky trades up and down, anything can happen on Thursday.

What will the best first-round moves look like?

The Strictly Stripes, Orange and Brown Talk and Buckeye Talk crews all join forces to put together their own timed first-round mock draft. This features some interesting trades and discussion and debate on how these picks go.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis, Dan Labbe, Tim Bielik, Mary Kay Cabot, Doug Lesmerises and Nathan Baird.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Defensive line is a position to watch for the Bengals in next week's NFL Draft. The team has different ways of attacking the interior depth with a variety of options throughout the first four rounds.

Will the team go against previous precedent and make a higher move at this position next week?

Cincinnati hasn't drafted a defensive lineman higher than the second round since 2001. However, running back is still a high priority area of need with little depth in that room entering 2023.

The Strictly Stripes crew puts together one more NFL mock draft using the Pro Football Focus (PFF) Draft Simulator ahead of the big week. They compare it to their previous draft from last week.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Aside from his off the field issues, Mixon is still a cap causality entering the 2023 season. The Bengals haven't ruled out drafting a running back in the first round and they're almost guaranteed to select one in the NFL Draft next week.

Will Mixon's fate be determined by the Bengals' draft stock? He could still be designated as a post-Jun. 1 cut depending on how team workouts and organized team activities go for the next month.

What does that mean for the rest of the Bengals' draft strategy?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at Duke Tobin's possible strategy and previous trends the Bengals have followed. They look at what that means for Mixon's future.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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What questions do we have for Tobin, and what things need to be answered moving forward?

Then, the Strictly Stripes crew discusses what the ideal draft looks like for Tobin and the Bengals.

This podcast features Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Philadelphia Jalen Hurts' latest $255 million megadeal signals how much the NFL's best passers can expect to make in the coming years. Two of his fellow 2020 draft classmates, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, are also due for likely looming extensions.

Both Burrow and Herbert are actively in contract negotiations. There's no timetable for either quarterback getting a deal done.

Who will get paid next? And will either of the two reset the market again?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at whether Burrow will be the league's highest paid player entering 2023 and what his future deal could look like.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Cincinnati brings back Drew Sample for another year alongside recent addition Irv Smith Jr. While Smith Jr. appears to be the heir apparent to Hayden Hurst, nothing is guaranteed heading into training camp.

How does this impact the Bengals' draft strategy? Is Michael Mayer in the mix?

The team is also back to working out once again with some faces present and some absent. Some absences are expected like right tackle Jonah Williams while some like Tee Higgins and Logan Wilson could be questionable.

The Strictly Stripes podcast looks at the state of the Bengals tight end room and assesses the attendance of the Bengals' early voluntary offseason workouts.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Don't be surprised if the Bengals try to find big body anywhere within the first three rounds of this month's NFL Draft. Whether or not they attack in the first round or not could depend on if players like Dalton Kincaid or Michael Mayer are still available.

Which round makes more sense beyond the first round to pick a tight end?

With exactly two weeks to go before this year's draft, the Strictly Stripes crew tag teams for their first ever joint seven-round mock draft. Using the Pro Football Focus draft simulator, they debate and discuss who the Bengals should pick and in what rounds.

Their results might surprise you. They look at their final results and contrast that to what could happen in two weeks.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The Bengals' opponents have made a swath of defensive signings to prepare for Burrow. San Francisco signed defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, Pittsburgh retained Larry Ogunjobi and added Patrick Peterson and the Browns bolstered their defense with names like Juan Thornhill and Dalvin Tomlinson.

Burrow is going to have to prepare for those challenging players. However, he might not have to worry so much about other teams like the Ravens who are on the opposite spectrum of free agent success.

The Strictly Stripes crew ranks the biggest moves that will impact Burrow next season. They also look at what the draft would mean for the future of his weapons, Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Ja'Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins are locked into 2023 and Trenton Irwin is also going to be back for another season. However, Boyd and Higgins both hit free agency in 2024 and there's a good chance at least one of them might be gone by then.

So, should the Bengals start to think about that future scenario now?

This year's wide receiver class isn't the deepest like recent years past, but the Bengals have options in the mid to late rounds of this year's NFL Draft. If all plays out well, they could make a move on a receiver in two weeks.

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the most underrated need for the Bengals in this year's draft. They also look at how recent history will shape the Bengals' draft board this month.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Cincinnati hasn't selected a defensive lineman in the first round in over two decades. Whether that's purely coincidental or exactly how the team has planned for the future, there's been mixed results from that process.

From landing star studded Pro Bowlers like Carlos Dunlap to mid-round players not panning out as planned, the Bengals have banked on finding success with mid-round talent and the draft.

However, that plan might not be what the Bengals need for long term success. Or, is it?

The Strictly Stripes crew explains whether the Bengals need to change the course of their draft trajectory at defensive line. If the Bengals do indeed make an early splash, they look at guys who just might fit the bill in 2023.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Odell Beckham Jr's newest one-year deal with the Baltimore Ravens will have him face against his former Browns team and the Cincinnati Bengals two more times each in 2023. His $15 million guaranteed signifies that the wide receiver market continues to grow across the NFL.

Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins is due for a contract extension and has made clear that he wants to stick around in Cincinnati. How soon that happens, or if it happens, is still unknown.

But does Beckham's latest deal mean that Higgins could be due for a new deal?

And will he get a new deal before Joe Burrow?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at how Beckham Jr's new deal shapes things up for the Bengals. They also take a look at the best safeties available for the Bengals and how much Cincinnati needs to prioritize adding a safety.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Cornerback isn't the most pressing area of need for the team but an area of need that needs to be addressed. Chidobe Awuzie isn't guaranteed to be ready for next season's opener and Eli Apple and Tre Flowers are still free agents.

Like tight end and running back, cornerback is a deep class in this year's draft. The Bengals have a range of options from the No. 28 overall pick until the seventh round.

Should they invest in a long-term project or a win-now player who can play immediately? And where would that fall on the team's draft board?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the cornerback draft depth in this year's class and finds the best fits for the Bengals. They look at the Bengals' draft history with cornerbacks and match that up with this year's class.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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His rookie year featured COVID-19 protocols and restrictions before he tore his ACL later that season. That impacted his ability to train and prepare for the 2021 season even though he went on to be named the NFL Comeback Player of the Year.

All seemed to go well heading into 2022 until he had to have an appendectomy that caused him to miss the preseason. That certainly might've hindered him as he had an 0-2 start to the season before finding his groove.

What does Burrow need to do to have the perfect offseason to have another stronger showing in 2023?

Aside from obvious areas that he can watch on film, like his tipped passes at the line of scrimmage, there might be other areas that will help him breathe in the pocket in terms of avoiding sacks and being more fluid.

The Strictly Stripes podcast is joined by special guest Lance Reisland who breaks down Burrow's film from 2022 and analyzes what separates him from stars like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Lance Reisland.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Although he might be gone well before the Bengals are on the clock with the No. 28 overall pick, the Bengals should hope he's available. He would be a great fit just like Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer, Ohio State tackle Dawand Jones and Clemson edge rusher Bryan Breese among other highly touted starts.

But should Robinson be the Bengals' biggest prized priority in this year's draft?

Running back will undoubtedly be an area of concern for Cincinnati in this year's draft. If they decide to look outside of the first round, this is the year to do with plenty of running backs on the chart.

The Strictly Stripes crew ranks the best running backs available for the Bengals and discuss whether or not they should pursue Robinson. They also rank the best Bengals players who would make for an all-star basketball lineup.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Dawand Jones excelled at that position with his long arms over in Columbus for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Although his trajectory might not be the highest compared to other big bodies in his class, he's still one of the top tackles available on most draft boards.

Depending on what happens with Bengals tackle Jonah Williams, who has requested a trade, Jones might be an even better fit if Williams is not in Cincinnati in 2023. However, the Bengals could entertain other options with the No. 28 overall pick in this month's NFL Draft.

Is Jones the best man for the Bengals? Or do other stars like Darnell Wright have a stronger case to make?

The Strictly Stripes crew gives their opinions on who the Bengals should target at right tackle in this month's draft. They talk about what Jones could bring to the table in Cincinnati.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Even if the Bengals can't land Michael Mayer or Dalton Kincaid, there are a breadth of options all the way through the seventh round of the draft. While they certainly won't wait until the end of the draft to land someone, they can take a gamble with players in the second and third rounds.

Calling this a tight-end friendly draft is an understatement.

Who are the best options available at that point? Or better yet, should the Bengals wait until that point to select a big body in the draft?

The Strictly Stripes crew weighs in on all the best options in front of the Bengals if they decide to take a later route in the draft. They also look at the best rounds the Bengals can target a tight end.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes are quickly rising up to fill the vacuum left behind by Manning and Brady. Although Burrow and Mahomes have met just four times in their respective careers, they've been nothing short of eventful matchups.

The Bengals and Chiefs have met in back-to-back AFC Championships and all four of their matchups have been decided by a field goal, two of which came down to field goals at the final horn. In between the heart racing action and championship caliber football is a lot of trashing talk between both teams.

From the "Burrowhead" remarks to the chirping between Justin Reid and Ja'Marr Chase, these two teams have each made a case for building one of the NFL's most exciting rivalries.

Where does this rivalry rank compared to the league's best rivalries today? Will this become the next rendition of Colts vs. Patriots?

The Strictly Stripes crew goes back in time and compares the legendary battles between Manning and Brady to the recent hoopla between Burrow and Mahomes. They also weigh on the Bengals' best rivalries today.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and his agent are in negotiations for a new contract extension that could possibly reset the market. Depending on how swiftly the negotiations are done, Burrow could be the league's highest paid player, ahead of even reigning MVP Patrick Mahomes and Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.

While Burrow certainly might not make the amount of guaranteed money Watson is making, his annual average could top the market entering the 2023 season. Burrow's fellow 2020 quarterback draftees, Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts, are due for some big pay days as well, and what happens to them could impact Burrow's deal and vice versa.

Is there a strong case to be made for Burrow making more than Mahomes, Watson or even Aaron Rodgers, who earns the highest annual average in the league?

The Strictly Stripes crew ranks the league's top paid quarterbacks and where Burrow fits into that equation. Based on those numbers, they look at where Burrow's pay day could fall in respect to that.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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At first glance, the Bengals' defensive depth chart isn't much different from last year's 2022 roster. Aside from losing their starting safeties, which was a "dark day" for Anarumo, the Bengals bring back all of their other defensive starters from last year not including current free agent Eli Apple.

However, there were a lot of shortcomings and concerns that could be compounded if things aren't addressed in next month's NFL Draft.

Did the Bengals not do enough defensively in free agent to address those concerns? As things stand with their active roster, will they be better, worse or the same as last year moving into 2023?

The Strictly Stripes Podcast answers those questions and does a position-by-position ranking of the entire Bengals' defense and assess if things are heading north or south for Cincinnati's defense.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Cincinnati is posed to bring back many of the same playmakers from 2022 with some very new faces sprinkled in between. There's still much to be settled in next month's NFL Draft as well.

However, regardless of what the draft holds for the Bengals, are they in good enough shape to remain contenders in 2023?

The Strictly Stripes crew does a very early look ahead what the Bengals depth chart looks like, how well each offensive position group is set up and what that could look like in 2023.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson wants out of Baltimore after he's been unable to land a deal with the team. Other teams are yet to entertain any offers but if they do, Jackson could be on his out of the division.

With the Bengals trying to follow up on their back-to-back division titles, how much of an advantage does this give them? Is there even an advantage to be had?

Bengals QB Joe Burrow is also set to receive his own extension in the future. Meanwhile, what can the Bengals apply and learn from Jackson's situation to Burrow's?

The Cleveland Browns are also on the rise after a splash of free agent moves this offseason. Deshaun Watson isn't going anywhere in the meantime so Jackson's potential departure could shift the power rankings in the division.

The Strictly Stripes crew weighs in on the indirect and even direct impact a Jackson departure would have on the Bengals in 2023.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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With almost exact a month to go before the NFL Draft, the Bengals will now focus on getting their draft boards together and planning for the future in Cincinnati.

The way the Bengals navigated this free agency is a sign that their future will be built in contrast to how things have been done in the last few years of the Joe Burrow era. Cincinnati's moves, like Germaine Pratt's extension and the Orlando Brown Jr. signing, will also have major implications for the future.

The Strictly Stripes crew wraps up the month of March and looks ahead to the coming days and weeks of draft season in Cincinnati.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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When the Ravens, Bengals, Steelers and Browns aren't busy battling each other in the regular season for a divisional title, they're busy working to outbuild one another. All four teams have been making moves to fight for the right to win the AFC North next season.

The Bengals, who are seeing their third consecutive divisional title for the first time in franchise history, will have to go against a Browns team that has loaded up with no shortage of signings and trades.

But where do each of these teams stand against their rivals from Pittsburgh and Baltimore?

The Strictly Stripes crew evaluates the current landscape of the AFC North and looks at which team has an advantage over who. They're joined by special guest and Browns Insider Mary Kay Cabot who breaks down where things stand.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and special guest Mary Kay Cabot.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, there is interest across the league for a player like Williams. Historically, the Bengals trading away players is rare, especially of Williams' caliber.

But will the Bengals take a similar course of action like they did back in 2021 when they traded away center Billy Price to the Giants for B.J. Hill?

Or will they even try to trade away draft capital that will help them win immediately in 2023?

Not only could a Williams move affect the Bengals' draft prospects, but it can significantly alter what happens with the No. 28 overall pick in next month's NFL Draft.

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at all the different possibilities and ways that the Bengals could move around Williams if they decide to do so. They also look at how that would shape up the NFL Draft.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After signing Orlando Brown and Nick Scott, on top of re-signing other players in-house, the Bengals' latest positional needs have changed. While tackle is still a question mark following Jonah Williams' trade request, areas like linebacker and wide receiver are firmly set for 2023.

Other departures like Samaje Perine's for example have changed up the running back room. That becomes an even higher area of need with the draft over a month away.

The Strictly Stripes crew re-ranks the Bengals' positions of need and takes a look at other unsigned free agents the Bengals can try to retain or go after.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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He was introduced on Monday after his signing was official. The Bengals will look to turn to him in the secondary as he'll help fill the void left by Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell who both left in free agency. He'll join forces with Dax Hill who will get his first true taste as a safety in the NFL.

Much like the Bengals did with Bell, the Bengals waited out much of the first week of free agency before landing Scott on his new three-year deal. Although he's played four seasons in the NFL, last year was his first full season as a starter.

Now, the Bengals will see what year two as a starter will bring for Scott and the secondary.

The Strictly Stripes crew talks about what separates Scott and how he'll make an impact for the Bengals. They also grade the Bengals' free agency moves up to this point after a week.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallmam

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Left tackle Jonah Williams has requested a trade following reports that indicated the Bengals wanted to move him to right tackle in favor of having Brown Jr. at left tackle. Williams has one year left on his current deal worth $12.6 million but there's no guarantee he'll be a Bengal for that final year.

Historically, the Bengals have balked at such requests but that hasn't always been the case, such as when center Billy Price was traded to the Giants for current Bengals' defensive tackle B.J. Hill.

With the draft over a month away though, the Bengals have to figure out if trading Williams or coming to a compromise is the way to go.

The Strictly Stripes podcast weighs in on what the Bengals' outlook on Williams look like. With Brown Jr. now officially a Bengal, they talk about why the Bengals won big with his acquisition and what that means for other free agents looking ahead.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After inking two more linemen in free agency, particularly Orlando Brown Jr., the Bengals have set themselves up for the rest of free agency and the draft. Now that the offensive line is mostly settled, they can use their draft capital as flexibly as they want moving forward throughout the offseason.

The Bengals still need to address their needs at the safety position with the departures of Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell. With Hayden Hurst leaving for Carolina, and the uncertainty behind free agents Mitchell Wilcox and Drew Sample, tight end become another area of emphasis.

The Strictly Stripes crew discuss and debates what the No. 28 overall pick looks like in light of the recent signings. They also lay out the rest of what the offseason could look like from here.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After being relatively hum for most of the free agency period, the Bengals open the new league year with a bang. They add a strong piece to the offensive line by adding former Chiefs tackle Orlando Brown Jr. on a massive $64 million deal on Wednesday night.

The addition of Brown Jr. completes the puzzle of a jumbled offensive line that the Bengals have tried to put together effectively in the Joe Burrow era. However, with how many times Burrow has been sacked entering the league, and how close the Bengals have come to winning a Super Bowl, Cincinnati's front office is not taking any more half measures.

There's still more questions that need to be answered, like what the transition of Brown at left tackle means for current left tackle Jonah Williams. Furthermore, is La'el Collins' job still safe in the meantime? What about the rest of the depth on the offensive line? How does that play into this year's NFL Draft?

The Strictly Stripes Podcast looks at every angle of what makes this signing important and unique for the Bengals. Looking ahead, they predict the overall future of where the offensive line is headed.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Samaje Perine, who was one of the team’s most valuable backups in 2022, is now headed out west to join the Denver Broncos. That leaves Joe Mixon and Chris Evans as the only Bengals’ running backs under contract. With Trayveon Williams set to hit free agency, running back is now a position of concern for the Bengals.

With a bevy of options available in both free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft next month, the Bengals have different ways to fill Perine’s shoes. If they want to go the free agency route, they must act soon to replace the efficiency that Perine provided in 2022.

Beyond that, the Bengals haven’t made any external free agent signings. Who should the Bengals sign externally, regardless of position? And how soon should they act on any potential players that could fit in head coach Zac Taylor’s system?

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down what the departure of Perine means and how the Bengals move forward without him. They look at names that could replace him and other free options the Bengals have across the board.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After losing both Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell in free agency, the Bengals will now have to plan for a world without them. Both players departed for the NFC South and the team only has Michael Thomas, Tycen Anderson and Dax Hill.

On the upside, they retained linebacker Germaine Pratt whose departure almost seemed inevitable. Beyond that though, the Bengals now have more questions than answers as they have a bigger hole to fill in free agency.

The Strictly Stripes Podcast lays out what happens from here for the Bengals, how they respond to the big losses and what options they have in front of them.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Unlike last year's shopping spree, the Bengals will focus on building from within their core pieces and retaining some of those soon-to-be free agent pieces.

But that doesn't mean there aren't solid fits on the market that could be matches made in heaven with the Bengals.

Should the Bengals lose both Vonn Bell and Jessie Bates, there's a special name that could fit right in for either of those two. On top of trying to add a key piece of depth on the offensive line, there's a tight end out there who's all too familar with quarterback Joe Burrow.

With the sixth-most cap space in the league, the Bengals have some room to shop and look around for more critical players who will fit the team's needs and match the culture that Zac Taylor has set in Cincinnati.

Who are these big names? The Strictly Stripes crew fills you in on some of the most interesting names and players that the Bengals should pursue in free agency in the coming days. They also look at which underrated players the team should retain when they hit the market.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Michael Niziolek.

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Joe Burrow's looming contract extension will play a large role in how free agency is shaped out for Cincinnati. While they'd certainly like to keep the biggest pending free agents from last year's AFC Championship game run, they've acknowledged that's likely not going to happen.

However, there's a lot of key pieces the Bengals can and should keep. But their free agent options will be broad in several areas once the period opens up.

Running back Joe Mixon's time in Cincinnati could be contingent on what happens in the period along with another recent legal incident tied to his residence. What does that mean with the period coming up so soon?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at what the Lamar Jackson saga means in terms of not just a Burrow extension, but the rest of the Bengals' cap decisions in free agency. They start to look at the biggest areas where the Bengals can make some noise with potential signings.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The focus for the franchise this offseason will be retaining key free agents and hitting the NFL Draft boards hard next month. Aside from locking down Joe Burrow and possibly Tee Higgins, all other decisions for the Bengals will be focused on getting over the hump in the here and now to win an elusive Super Bowl.

Now that's there more clarity entering free agency, there's a better sense of who and where the Bengals will place their priorities with the No. 28 overall pick. Free agency will give even more definitive clarity, but with the combine said and done, there's names that now look like a better fit for the Bengals.

Which names would fit well with Cincinnati? And how much should the Bengals prioritize those names?

The Strictly Stripes podcast breaks down the most important takeaways for the Bengals as they shift focus from the combine to free agency with a month to go before the NFL Draft. Speaking of free agency, they look at some of the biggest questions across the NFL and the AFC North, including Lamar Jackson's contract situation, and assess what that means for the Bengals.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

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Having such a late pick gives them the ability to be flexible in the first round. Where the Bengals go with that pick will become clearer once the dust settles on free agency later this month.

There's one hometown kid who has his eyes on the Bengals though.

Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer, who grew up just outside of Cincinnati, has marveled at the idea of playing with quarterback Joe Burrow and his hometown Bengals. Seeing Mayer in orange and black stripes isn't out of the realm of possibility. But that will have to come down to him being available on top of the Bengals having an interest in him.

But the Bengals might not have as pressing of a need at tight end if they re-sign Hayden Hurst and Mitchell Wilcox this offseason. The opposite would be true if Eli Apple and Tre Flowers walk in free agency. There's plenty of names the Bengals could entertain at cornerback early in the draft.

The Strictly Stripes crew talks about Mayer, what he brings, how impressive other tight ends are in the draft and where they all fit in the grand scheme of things heading into April. A conversation that isn't going anywhere soon, they also talk about what the Bengals have to do to finally rebuild at right tackle.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

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Experts like Daniel Jeremiah have acknowledged this and there's no shortage of talented, feisty pass defenders to watch at this week's NFL Combine.

That's a position that could become an area of need this offseason if the Bengals not only lose Eli Apple and Tre Flowers in free agency, but if they decide not to pursue any cornerbacks in free agency. While that likely wouldn't be the highest area of need for Cincinnati, it will become an area of need, nonetheless.

Thankfully for the Bengals and any other potentially cornerback-needy teams, there should be swath of cornerbacks across the board from Day 1 to Day 3. From top-tier names like Devon Witherspoon and Joey Porter Jr. to sleeper picks like Clark Phillips III and Emmanuel Forbes, the range is almost limitless.

Should the Bengals focus on the combine and bringing in fresh talent, rather than hit the free agent market for cornerbacks? And how soon should they plan for the inevitable departure of Germaine Pratt and possibility of a future without Logan Wilson?

The Strictly Stripes podcast talks about some of the most intriguing cornerbacks who could fit in well in Cincinnati along with other prospective players at linebacker and defensive line, along with where the Bengals can open up more cap space.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Michael Niziolek.

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But, maybe not for the right reasons.

The Bengals pass rush struggled to utilize Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard as effectively as possible in 2022. On the flip side, run blocking wasn't the strongest hallmark of the Bengals' offensive last year either. Both are areas the Bengals have acknowledged they want to work on going into 2023.

Coordinators Lou Anarumo and Brian Callahan are both back for their fifth season together in Cincinnati after they were both finalists for respective coaching positions. They each want to build on those categories as they look to finally get the Bengals over the hump of winning a Super Bowl.

There's no fitting time to discuss building on consistency than the NFL Scouting Combine. The Bengals will certainly have their eyes on possible "glass eaters," as coined by offensive line coach Frank Pollack, and juiced up defensive linemen who will look to get to the quarterback.

Punter is another area that will see competition this coming offseason in Cincinnati as the Bengals have acknowledged that Drue Chrisman isn't guaranteed the starting role next season. That's not an area to overlook.

The Strictly Stripes crew talks about how the trenches can and should be shaped together in 2023 for the Bengals and how the NFL Combine can assist with that. They break down how Anarumo and Callahan can add to what they built on in 2022.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Well, not literally.

Burrow wasn't physically present but his name came up frequently as Bengals Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin and Bengals head coach Zac Taylor talked about what a future extension looks like for Burrow. Tobin didn't get into specifics but assured that locking down Burrow long-term is a priority for Cincinnati.

On top of Burrow's looming extension, Tobin made clear that he does not intend on trading wide receiver Tee Higgins. Nothing was made on an extension for him or linebacker Logan Wilson but he didn't rule those things off the table for this offseason.

Where do things move from here for Burrow and the Bengals? And what does that mean for potential cap casualties and other unrestricted free agents?

The Strictly Stripes crew makes sense of Tobin's comments and where that steers the tide for the Bengals this offseason. With prospect interviews and workouts set to kick off this week, the crew talks about where the Bengals could and should focus their attention.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Bengals head coach Zac Taylor and Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin will embark on this week's NFL Combine in Indianapolis. There will be different areas of need the Bengals will look to tackle and focus on throughout the week in the Hoosier state.

Tobin, who rarely speaks to reporters, will address those concerns and areas of need that the Bengals will look to emphasize and address. Taylor, who's now at his fifth combine as the Bengals' head coach, will echo much of those same areas along with other offseason updates for the Bengals, including the status of a potential Joe Burrow contract extension.

Those are just some of the many things that Tobin and Taylor will talk about this week in Indy. A lot of things could change the course of where the Bengals head this offseason just based on some of the Combine results alone.

The Strictly Stripes crew considers and discusses potential questions that Taylor and Tobin should and likely will respectively address this week. In light of the recent release of the Cocaine Bear film this past weekend, the crew gives their thoughts and opinions about the movie.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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But are there some possible names that they could look at to compete with Drue Chrisman at punter?

Next week's NFL Combine features several big-name punters the Bengals should keep their eyes on. One of them is Bryce Baringer out of Michigan State who had a strong showing at the Reese's Senior Bowl a few weeks ago. Although he could be drafted late in the draft in April, he could still be someone the Bengals could watch.

Down the middle of the pack of prospects, underrated players like local product and Cincinnati Bearcats linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. make the case for being a solid mid-round pick that could fit multiple needs for the Bengals. Running backs like Zach Charbonnet or defensive tackles like Jaquelin Roy might provide some immediate and future depth and could have a solid NFL Combine.

The Strictly Stripes podcast crew breaks down all the areas of the Bengals' special teams unit from 2022. From the transition of Kevin Huber and Clark Harris to Drue Chrisman and Cal Adomitis, the Bengals are literally entering a new era at special teams. Kicker Evan McPherson continues making a name for himself early in his eventful NFL career.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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With veteran safety Jessie Bates likely on his way out of the door in Cincinnati, the Bengals will probably put more effort toward keeping fellow veteran Vonn Bell. Bell, who played in a contract year like Bates, has a better chance at staying in Cincinnati.

Bell, who is closer to the age of 30 and isn't as highly valued of a target as Bates, might be able to be retained for more of a bargain. Aside of maintaining some veteran continuity in the secondary, Bell would play a big role in grooming Dax Hill into eventually filling Bates' shoes at free safety.

Hill, who had growing pain at times, particularly on special teams, was mostly used as a reverse nickel in the secondary during his 2022 rookie campaign. Now the former first-round pick must prepare to have his hands even fuller with covering lots of ground against some of the best opposing receivers Cincinnati will face next year.

If Bates departs, along with free agent veteran Michael Thomas, the Bengals will still have to fill those holes either through free agency or the draft. There's no shortage of modestly priced veterans set to become free agents next month that the Bengals could go after to add depth behind Hill and Bell.

The Strictly Stripes crew explains why Bell is an important piece to the Bengals' defensive puzzle this offseason. With that, they rate the best and most affordable free agents and rookies available to bolster the Bengals' secondary.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Three different corners will hit free agency next month, including starting cornerback Eli Apple. Reserve nickel corners Jalen Davis and Tre Flowers are also set to hit the market, leaving a possible void at the slot for the Bengals.

Flowers and Apple each have a projected market value of around $11 million, which could prove to be a challenge for the Bengals if they want to keep both players. Do the Bengals retain Apple as a starter if he returns? With Chidobe Awuzie healing from an ACL tear and Cam Taylor-Britt building his way up the ranks, Apple may not be a surefire starter if he's with the Bengals in 2023.

Awuzie may not even be ready by Week 1 and is entering a contract year, which means the Bengals might have to start thinking about a potential future without him. In a cornerback-laden NFL Draft class, will the Bengals repeat history and draft another cornerback in the second round like they did with Taylor-Britt last year?

The Bengals have a lot of cap space to work with in terms of bolstering their secondary. Given the circumstances with theupcoming Joe Burrow contract extension era, Cincinnati may have to be a little more conservative with how they stock up at cornerback. There's no shortage of free agents on the market, including proven reserves the team could acquire for a bargain.

The Strictly Stripes podcast makes a case for who stays and who goes amongst the Bengals' free agent corners. Looking through the top free agents and NFL Draft prospects, they sort out the pieces to the puzzle and see what could fit for the Bengals in 2023 and beyond.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Germaine Pratt, set to hit free agency this offseason, may have likely played his last game in a Bengals uniform. With the Joe Burrow extension era in effect, the Bengals may opt to let him walk with fellow linebacker Logan Wilson entering a contract year next season.

Reserve linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither seems like the likely candidate to fill Pratt's shoes if he's not back in Cincinnati in 2023. The third-year linebacker only played about 22% of total defensive snaps but made most of them count, including his interception in the wild card game against Baltimore.

However, Clay Johnston and Joe Bachie, two backups who mainly played on special teams, are also free agents and aren't surefire locks. Even if the Bengals decide to bring them back, they may have to use some draft capital to fill part of the void that would be left by Pratt.

Draft capital may be critical especially if Wilson doesn't land an extension before this season or isn't resigned before the 2024 season. Markus Bailey, another special teams linebacker who's been used in multiple subpackages, might be the one to fill Davis-Gaither's shoes if Davis-Gaither starts.

The Strictly Stripes podcast crew looks at how much of a drop-off there could be in a world where Pratt doesn't return in 2023. Aside from the current reserves on the Bengals' roster, they look at any possible names the Bengals should consider in free agency or in this April's NFL Draft.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson made back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances while his sidekick, Sam Hubbard, played one of the better seasons of his career all while both playing with missed time due to injuries, respectively.

Defensive tackle D.J. Reader missed seven games to a knee injury but returned and played as one of the better run stoppers and pass defenders at his position across the league. B.J. Hill picked up the workload alongside Reader during his absence.

However, Hendrickson and Reader hardly combined for over 14 sacks and the Bengals' pass defense was statistically one of the worst in the NFL last year in terms of getting to the quarterback, finishing in the bottom five in the league in quarterback sack percentage.

There are also more concerns given Reader is entering a contract year in 2023 while Hendrickson and Hill each both have just two years remaining on their current deals. Given that Hendrickson and Hill could both be cap casualties at the end of next season, their time in Cincinnati could even be more limited.

Assuming a scenario where neither Reader, Hill nor Hendrickson, or a combination of the three, returns to Cincinnati in 2023, the Bengals may have to start planning now for the future depending on what happens with their veterans up front.

The Strictly Stripes Podcast breaks down the missed opportunities of the Bengals' defensive front last year, why that needs to change and where they can instantly improve their luck. Looking ahead to his year's draft and the offseason, they also talk about how the Bengals should use their draft capital to build depth up front.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Despite improvements from left tackle Jonah Williams and La'el Collins, who started over the Bengals' 2021 starter, Isaiah Prince, both Williams and Collins each respectively battled their own injuries. Williams missed the Bengals' final two playoff games with dislocated kneecap. Collins tore his ACL in Week 16 against the Patriots and missed the rest of the year.

Williams enters his fifth-year option of his rookie deal. Collins, who has two years left on his deal, is nearing the age of 30 and might not be ready for the start of the 2023 season. The Bengals could also save over $6 million in cap space if they choose to release him this summer.

Are Collins and Williams long term answers for the Bengals? Or should the team plan for a future without either of them starting now? Does that also mean the Bengals should cut Collins?

Swing tackle Hakeem Adeniji also enters the final year of his rookie deal in 2023. Assuming he doesn't return after next year, the Bengals should plan to add depth at the tackle position in the offseason to set themselves up in 2024. Jackson Carman showed promise at tackle late in the year and proved he could provide solid depth in the future.

The interior, led by center Ted Karras and right guard Alex Cappa, is in good shape and showed solid consistency in their first year together in Cincinnati. Rookie left guard Cordell Volson proved to be a solid fourth round draft pick by starting every game at his position in the regular season and playoffs. Other than deciding on what to do with backup guard Max Scharping, Cincinnati is set up well on the inside.

The Strictly Stripes podcast crew weighs the pros and cons of moving forward with or without Collins and how to prepare for a future without Williams and/or Adeniji. Looking through the list of draft prospects, they assess some of the top tackles available and explain where the Bengals should focus on drafting a lineman in the first round.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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The hurdling, tackle breaking Bengals tight end once said early last season that he felt like he "died and went to heaven" after scoring his first ever touchdown as a Bengal. In just his first season with Cincinnati, he delivered an immediate impact and built a strong relationship with Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and head coach Zac Taylor.

After four seasons with two different teams, Hurst had the best year of his career, finishing with 52 receptions, 414 receiving yards and two touchdowns. That almost doubling his output from his first two combined years with the Baltimore Ravens.

However, Hurst is a free agent and he increased his market value with his breakout season in Cincinnati. Although he's expressed his desire to be with the Bengals, he's almost 30 and could see other offers from other franchises.

Will he chose to remain with the Bengals for peace of mind, even with a slightly lesser deal?

Hurst is far from the only tight end entering free agency. Drew Sample and Mitchell Wilcox will both be free agents this offseason. Sample, who went on the injured reserve with a season-ending injury last year, has battled injuries. Wilcox, meanwhile, rose from an undrafted practice squad reserve to a starting tight end in place of an injured Hurst at times.

The tight end position is one where the Bengals will have a lot of questions to answer relative to other areas on their roster. Do they try to replace either of three in free agency? If not, how will they attack this April's NFL Draft to spot a future face in Cincinnati? Aside from the talk of Cincinnati local phenom-turned Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer, a bevy of talented ends will be in this year's draft.

The Strictly Stripes crew weighs on in Hurst's impact and the likelihood that he remains in Cincinnati. Based on that potential outcome, they explain what that means for Wilcox and Sample and how the Bengals should select a possible replacement for either of three should they leave.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After Chase and Higgins both finished with over 1,000 yards each, while Boyd didn’t trail far behind with 762 receiving yards, those efforts helped lead the Bengals back to yet another AFC Championship game. Even while Chase missed four games due to a hip injury, that’s where Higgins and Boyd both shined, especially Higgins, in Chase’s absence.

Don’t overlook the impact of backup receiver Trenton Irwin as well. After earning a role on the 53-man roster midway through the year, Irwin stepped up and delivered with four touchdowns of his own to go with nine regular season games played.

Although statistics and even analytics can only focus on so much of a player’s caliber, the latest ESPN Analytics rankings for the 2022 season, per FiveThirtyEight, revealed its own rankings and measurements of where wide receivers ranked. The rankings are based on their ability to make catches, get wide open and gain yards after catch, along with an overall combined grade from those categories.

Only Higgins landed in the top-ten among all wide receivers for the overall rankings as the seventh-best rated receiver while Boyd and Chase landed a few spots behind him tied at 15th each.

Although the rankings aren’t intended to rank the best overall receiver or tight end from best to worst, the metrics are focused on where a receiver is able to produce results based on those respective categories.

Should those results be indicative of how the Bengals’ receivers played this year?

On top of the fact Chase missed multiple games while Boyd and Higgins missed snaps due to their own respective injuries throughout the season, do those metrics and ratings capture the full picture and impact each receiver brought to the table? Possibly, but there should be other factors at play, like how well players did against certain defenses like Cover 2, and how much of a role their respective quarterbacks play in.

While the Bengals might enter with the best QB-WR tandem of Joe Burrow and Chase, and the best receiving duo with Chase and Higgins, the Bengals could have to make tough decisions if they want to keep the big three together.

Boyd has been a key veteran presence on and off the field for the Bengals, but in order to pay those other three, the Bengals might have to consider whether releasing him is worth saving $10.2 in cap space or not. He enters the final year of his contract and is nearing the age of 30 and the Bengals are focusing on the long-term future.

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at what those respective analytics and rankings mean relative to the Bengals’ wide receivers and their outlook for 2023. They also discuss the pros and cons of keeping or releasing Boyd ahead of the 2023 season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor brings back both of his coordinators for the fifth straight season. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo and offensive coordinator Brian Callahan aren't going anywhere for now. After the Arizona Cardinals opted to pick former Eagles defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon as their new head coach, that leaves Anarumo in Cincinnati.

Callahan was a candidate for that job and the Indianapolis Colts job as well before those respective teams moved forward in their processes without him. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will have him and quarterback coach Dan Pitcher together again in 2023 just as Burrow has in every year of his career.

With DeMeco Ryans now the head coach of the Houston Texans and Gannon the head coach of the Cardinals, that arguably leaves Anarumo as the top defensive mastermind in the league entering next season. Callahan will have another year to build on the strong MVP caliber success Burrow showed with his receiving weapons like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.

Only a very small handful of teams in the NFL have the level of depth and continuity with their coaching staffs in the way the Bengals do. One of those teams, the Chiefs, has formed a formidable rivalry with the Bengals since Burrow arrived in Cincinnati three years ago.

The Chiefs are still favorites to win the Super Bowl next season but the Bengals now move up as the second-highest favored team behind Kansas City according to oddsmakers. Whether or not that was because of Anarumo's return was unknown but that shouldn't be a surprising reason if indeed that's the case.

The Strictly Stripes crew weighs in on the impact that Anarumo's return brings to a Bengals defense that found a way to limit some of the league's most elite players like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen and Derrick Henry to name a few. They also look at a big coaching hire by one of their divisional rivals and talk about the weight that carries in the AFC North next season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After falling just short of returning to football's biggest stage, the Bengals continue an offseason that will focus on figuring out how to get bag to the big game. The team that kept them from claiming back-to-back AFC championships, the Kansas City Chiefs, meanwhile, is now football's newest world champion.

The Chiefs won their second Super Bowl in four seasons after defeating the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII, 38-35, on Sunday night at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. A 24-point second-half comeback from the Chiefs, led by Super Bowl MVP and quarterback Patrick Mahomes, propelled the Chiefs to the victory over an Eagles team that hadn't trailed all season.

Much like the Bengals, the Eagles made several critical errors down the stretch that allowed the league MVP to drive his team to yet another world championship. Although the Eagles entered the game as 1.5-point favorites, the Chiefs gladly played with the underdog chip on their shoulders.

As the Eagles and Bengals both try to figure out how to get back to the big game next year, that plan will likely have to run through the same Chiefs team that will open the year as defending world champions. Both teams will rematch in the regular season at Arrowhead Stadium and a potential playoff matchup between the two shouldn't be surprising either.

What can the Bengals and Eagles learn from each other from their respective postseason losses to Kansas City? Although these are two different teams that played two totally different scenarios, they faced the same team with the same lethal quarterback and units behind him.

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the big errors the Eagles made and compares them with the errors the Bengals made in the AFC Championship. Looking at those errors, they use that to help lay out the path for what the Bengals could and should do in this offseason to right the ship.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Although he was named the FedEx Air Player of the Year, he did not earn any first-place votes for the NFL MVP award. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes got 48 out of the 50 total votes. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and Bills quarterback Josh Allen respectively split the other two votes.

Bengals defensive end Sam Hubbard was a finalist for the NFL Moment of the Year Award but he lost that to Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson. Other than the Celebration of the Year award, the Bengals walked out empty handed from Thursday's night honors.

The Bengals' focus is on winning championships, not awards, and they've made that clear. However, Burrow showed he's worthy of being considered for one of the league's highest honors. What will it take for him to edge out the likes of Hurts, Mahomes and Allen next season?

Furthermore, the Bengals have added another Hall of Famer in Canton as the late Ken Riley will be posthumously honored later this year after being inducted as a senior finalist. Tackle Willie Anderson will have to wait another year after his second bid at getting to Canton fell just short.

Will he be the next Bengal in? And until when?

The Strictly Stripes crew answers all those questions and even previews this weekend's Super Bowl. As the Eagles prepare to face the Chiefs, the crew talks about what the Eagles have to learn from the Bengals' mistakes that they made against the Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game. They give their predictions and takes on who will run away with the Lombardi Trophy.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Despite playing just two combined seasons together, the trio has already helped lead the Bengals to a Super Bowl, consecutive division titles for the first time in franchise history and back-to-back conference championship game appearances.

They’re not just playing better together. The trio is having fun together. So much so that they’ve made an argument for being considered the “Big Three” of the Bengals and one of the better trios in the entire league.

Nothing lasts forever, especially in the NFL, but Chase, Higgins and Burrow want to make their time in Cincinnati as extended and memorable as possible.

Wishing for that is easier said than done and even they’ve acknowledged that. Burrow is almost guaranteed to get an extension this offseason. Although Chase isn’t up for one until 2024, that could put him in the upper tier of wide receiver deals, which could pose to be a challenge for extending Higgins with only so much cap space to go around.

On top of the fact that the Bengals will likely watch some free agents walk away, like safety Jessie Bates or linebacker Germaine Pratt, and may weigh the possibility of releasing players to help expand the team’s cap space. All of that is still up in the air but those factors could determine the range of how far the Bengals can go to keep all three together.

Is the idea of having all three together long-term wishful thinking? Or will Burrow, Chase and Higgins be willing to take a slight pay cut if it means that they will be together for the foreseeable future.

With all of that said, Higgins isn’t the only one on the roster eligible for an extension. Linebacker Logan Wilson is entering the final year of his contract and he’s up for an extension or a fifth-year option being picked up. His impact on defense can’t be overstated as he was a consistent third-down linebacker last year even while he battled through a shoulder injury.

If things only weren’t more difficult for the Bengals’ front office. How much more difficult though?

The Strictly Stripes crew revisits what a Higgins extension would look like in the shadow of Burrow’s looming big deal. After weighing in those factors, they consider the possibility of what a Wilson extension should look like and how possible that is to materialize.

Bengals team reporter and senior producer Marisa Contipelli joins the crew to weigh in her thoughts on what those respective extensions could look like and how they will shape the Bengals’ offseason.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Michael Niziolek.

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Perine is set to become a free agent. There’s a possibility that Mixon could be released to save cap space to pave way for other signings and extensions, most notably for Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.

The duo is more than familiar with one another; they both played college football together at Oklahoma and were drafted just two rounds apart from each other in the 2017 NFL Draft. They’ve been together in Cincinnati since the 2020 season and even played in a Super Bowl together last year.

Nothing is guaranteed in a business like the NFL. While both could be back, neither return or only one stays, both certainly made strong cases for why they should remain with Cincinnati.

However, in a world where both are back with the Bengals in 2023, who should start behind Burrow next season?

Aside from making a case for being in Cincinnati next year, both players each made their own respective cases for why they should the starting RB1 for the Bengals. That was a debate that became a point of discussion last season and that could resurface again within the coming weeks and/or months.

The Strictly Stripes crew evaluates how Mixon and Perine respectively performed last year, weighing the pros and cons between both backs. Running back Trayveon Williams, who’s also set to hit free agency, also put together a strong showing at kick returner in place of fellow running back Chris Evans. Should the Bengals keep Williams and have him compete for that spot once again?

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After following up his Super Bowl campaign in 2021 with a return to the AFC Championship this past season, Burrow not only remained mostly consistent, but even showed signs of growth. Despite a shaky start to the first half of the season, Burrow led the Bengals on a 10-game win streak en route to their first back-to-back conference title game appearance in team history.

That 10-game win streak propelled Burrow into the MVP conversation alongside the likes of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Bills quarterback Josh Allen. He beat both quarterbacks this season up until Mahomes avenged him later at Arrowhead Stadium.

On top of returning the Bengals to a formidable status amongst the NFL’s best, Burrow showed why he’s worthy of being one of the highest paid players in the league. Much of the focus of the Bengals’ offseason will revolve around what a potential extension would Burrow for look like along with other big decisions in free agency that will shape his extension.

The Strictly Stripes Crew looks at how Burrow grew at his position last season even as the Bengals had a shaky 0-2 start to open the season before going 5-4 at the bye week. Looking at Burrow’s strengths, they also look at where Burrow could improve heading into next year if he wants to beat out Mahomes and/or Allen for the right to be named MVP amongst other lofty honors.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Longtime Bengals wide receiver A.J. Green officially announced his retirement from the NFL on Monday after 12 seasons, officially marking the near end of an era that includes players from his 2011 draft class retiring, including future Hall of Fame defensive end J.J. Watt.

Green, who played with current Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow during Burrow's rookie season, headlines an exclusive list of franchise all-stars including, but not limited to, Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmanzadeh and Carl Pickens.

However, Green's prime was almost a decade ago. Today, the Bengals are focused on shaping superstars like wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins who are each respectively starting to mold their own status amongst Cincinnati's best stars of the decade alongside Burrow.

Where does Green rank alongside past stars like Johnson and current phenoms like Chase and Higgins? What would the Bengals look like if Green played with Burrow in his prime, rather than quarterback Andy Dalton? That's asking a big "what if," but it certainly weighs in on Green's legacy and caliber in 12 seasons.

As the Bengals continue building for the future with Burrow, Chase and Higgins, there's no shortage of talent that they could stack on through this April's NFL Draft. Last week, some of college football's finest players showcased their talents leading into the 2023 Reese's Senior Bowl. Multiple draft prospects showcased their talent during practice leading up to the weekend's bowl game.

The Bengals' draft needs will likely be shaped by decisions made in free agency in March. However, they still have some positions that could and should be built on regardless of who comes or leaves through the free agent market.

Who could the Bengals zoom their attention on from last week's pool of talent? Oregon State tight end Luke Musgrave turned heads last week and has even drawn comparisons to Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer. The Bengals could also use some depth behind D.J. Reader and B.J. Hill while building a project edge rusher behind Trey Hendrickson, who has two years left on his deal.

The Strictly Stripes crew reconvenes after a weekend off to assess Green's legacy and how he impacted the wide receiver position during his career. They break down some of the biggest names from last week's Senior Bowl, such as BYU tackle Blake Freeland and Wisconsin interior lineman Keeanu Benton, just to name a few.

Furthermore, they revisit the coaching carousel and talk about Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo being a finalist for the Cardinals' head coaching job.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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If free agency wasn't enough, the Bengals are also set to likely give Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow a contract extension that could reset the market for quarterbacks. All of that plays into how the Bengals will head into free agency and what that means for their potential draft decisions this April.

All of that requires planning and attention on many fronts, including the salary cap. The Bengals have the sixth-best salary cap space in the league ($35.7 million) according to Spotrac.

Will the Bengals try and make more room to pave the way for Burrow? What about wide receiver Tee Higgins?

Higgins has one year remaining on his contract but, like Burrow, he too is eligible for an extension along with linebacker Logan Wilson. Mix in the fact that Ja'Marr Chase will likely ask for one when he's eligible in 2024 and that makes for some complex decision-making.

The Bengals could possibly save cap space by restructuring some deals or cutting players to save money, although that's not a dire necessity. Running back Joe Mixon, offensive tackle La'el Collins and other veterans are examples of players who could potentially be salary cap targets in order to expand cap space.

Do the Bengals try and expand their cap space, or do they try to allocate their resources through free agency and draft capital? What does that look like?

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the Bengals' salary cap numbers and compares and contrasts any decisions that can impact what happens not just this offseason, but next year as well. They also start looking at early areas of need for the Bengals as they are still not even a full week into this fresh offseason.

They are also joined by special guest and Bengals team writer Geoff Hobson.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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With the Bengals set to likely negotiate a contract extension with their star quarterback, that means there will be tough decisions to be made with key players on both sides of the ball, particularly the defense.

Safety Jessie Bates and linebacker Germaine Pratt have likely played their final games in a Cincinnati uniform. Bates was franchise tagged last season and Pratt may have given away signs that he could be elsewhere next season.

Next to Bates though, safety Vonn Bell is also entering the offseason with his contract set to expire. Bell has played his last two seasons in Cincinnati making a large impact through many angles, tying Bates for the team lead in interceptions (4). A team captain who has been one of the leaders of not just the Bengals' secondary, but the defense overall, keeping Bell will be critical if Bates and Pratt do indeed walk.

Moreover, cornerbacks Eli Apple and Tre Flowers are set to become unrestricted free agents as well. They've each spent the last two years together in Cincinnati after coming over from Carolina and Seattle, respectively. Both played significantly different roles but saw lots of action in that span.

Apple, who is entering his eighth season with four different teams, could be at a crossroads. The Bengals might decide to stick with Chidobe Awuzie and rookie Cam Taylor-Britt as their two starting cornerbacks. That means Apple could either be behind them, or he might search for another opportunity elsewhere as a start. Given his age and controversial social media, that could make for an interesting offseason for him.

Offensively, there's a bevy of free agents but the biggest name headlining the offense is tight end Hayden Hurst. Hurst, who's played just one year in Cincinnati, has expressed desire in wanting to stay with the Bengals - his third team he's played for in five seasons. However, the Bengals have shown they're historically not afraid to draft tight ends early. Backup tight ends Drew Sample, a second-round pick, and Mitchell Wilcox both being free agents could sway the Bengals in that direction.

The Bengals' coaching carousel has sped up a bit as Lou Anarumo has interviewed with the Arizona Cardinals and his coordinator cohort, Brian Callahan, is set to do the same. Callahan also has a second interview with the Colts coming up and wide receiver coach Troy Walters has been requested to be interviewed by the Houston Texans for an offensive coordinator position.

That doesn't even scratch the full surface of the Bengals' pending offseason. The Strictly Stripes crew talks at least about those aforementioned free agent names and where the coaching search could turn in Cincinnait. They toss other names that could be considered for other coaching vacanies as well.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has said that his championship window is his entire career. That reflects the team's standard of not just reaching but winning the Super Bowl after coming up just short in last year's Super Bowl.

But Sunday's loss to the Chiefs was an opportunity that was just within Cincinnati's reach.

Like last year's Super Bowl, the Bengals were just a drive away from possibly defeating the Chiefs in near walk-off fashion with two timeouts and 2:30 left on the clock. That makes the loss much more frustrating and worth dwelling over what could've been for a team that was riding a 10-game win streak.

Things only get harder for the Bengals internally and externally. On the outside, the AFC is just as competitive, if not more competitive, with the Chiefs, Bills and even the Jaguars among some of the few teams that came close to this year's Super Bowl who could be contenders next year. Furthermore, the Bengals will have some tough decisions to make with Burrow's potential contract extension looming. Depending on how that plays, that will affect how they go about with free agency.

Tight end Hayden Hurst is the only offensive starter whose contract is expiring. Linebacker Germaine Pratt and veteran safeties Vonn Bell and Jessie Bates also have their contracts coming up too, presenting a challenge for the Bengals' defensive nucleus that helped them reach back-to-back AFC title games.

Those are just some of the biggest names though headlining the Bengals' free agents. Cornerbacks Eli Apple and Tre Flowers are on that list, along with running back Samaje Perine, backup quarterback Brandon Allen, punt returner Trent Taylor and kickoff returner Trayveon Williams among the other tier of free agents to name a few.

Does this mean the Bengals' championship window is closing in fast? How much room is left for the franchise to try and get back to the Super Bowl and deliver Cincinnati its first ever championship?

The Strictly Stripes crew opens up the offseason talking about what could've been in Sunday's stunning loss at Arrowhead Stadium and assessing how detrimental that was to the Bengals' title hopes. They also look at where coordinators Lou Anarumo and Brian Callahan fit in the coaching carousel and zoom in specifically on Bates and Pratt.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/8FjzZG4JFm/

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After winning a franchise-record 10 straight games that features a rare wire-to-wire road playoff win against the Buffalo Bills, the Bengals begin their offseason two weeks earlier than planned. Cincinnati’s season comes to a halt following a 23-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship game.

Much like their last three meetings, the game came down to a field goal score and a late field goal at that. Harrison Butker’s 45-yard game-winning kick avenged Kansas City’s last three losses to Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Although Cincinnati had multiple attempts and plays to take a lead, they never led Kansas City once despite tying the game up twice.

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, despite playing with a high ankle sprain, was swallowed up left and right by Cincinnati’s defense, which sacked him twice, but he sustained those hits and kept going by any means necessary. He exploited Cincinnati’s defense through several explosive passes downfield to Marquez Valdes-Scantling and a series of screen passes to rookie running back Isiah Pacheco.

Burrow, meanwhile, had flashbacks of last year’s playoff nightmares after the Chiefs sacked him six times. All-Pro defensive end Chris Jones took this game personal following trash talk remarks regarding Arrowhead Stadium’s name and image and took that out with two sacks of his own.

Wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins each had some of the best catches in their careers that both kept the Bengals in the game. But, their efforts just weren’t enough, and they couldn’t fully complete the comeback that they put together in last year’s AFC title game.

The Strictly Stripes crew does its final postgame podcast of the 2022 season as the Bengals prepare for a lengthy offseason that could see lots of uncertain changes. They explain how this game could have gone any other way and how the Bengals move on from the stinging loss.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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For as much praise as the Andy Reid-led Chiefs have received for their play style that earned them their fifth-straight AFC Championship game appearance - all at home - the Bengals have somehow found a way to play spoiler. One of Kansas City's three losses this year came in Cincinnati back in Week 13.

The Chiefs didn't play poorly. They were just outplayed.

In all three of their head-to-head meetings, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has helped give his team a fourth quarter lead. But whether Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow went off at the right time or the Chiefs just went south at the wrong time, Mahomes and the Chiefs just haven't been able to find the Bengals' kryptonite.

That doesn't take away the challenge the Bengals face heading into an always-challenging Arrowhead Stadium environment. It took an 18-point comeback for the Bengals to come into Arrowhead last year to pull out an overtime victory to head to their first Super Bowl in over three decades.

Neither team is in this game by coincidence. Round four of this classic AFC rumble is quickly turning into one of the NFL's hottest rivalries with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line. Cincinnati seeks back-to-back AFC titles for the first time in franchise history. Kansas City wants to get back to the big game for the third time in four seasons after winning it all three years ago.

Burrow vs. Mahomes has all the makings of one of the league's best quarterback duels. An MVP finalist, Burrow goes against a one-time MVP winner and current frontrunner in Mahomes. Reid will look to get his first-ever win against Bengals head coach Zac Taylor who continues leading the Bengals ascension in the AFC.

A more youthful, robust Chiefs defense, led by defense coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, will try and do what Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has done and that's stop Burrow in his tracks. That includes his receiving corps, led by Ja'Marr Chase, which has also been a force to be reckoned with in these games.

Who takes round four of this hot, fiery rivalry that's featured no shortage of bulletin board material? Kansas City is a 1.5-point favorite but that hasn't meant anything to a confident Bengals squad. Will Burrow or Mahomes possess the hot hand?

The Strictly Stripes crew gives a comprehensive, full-on preview filled with game predictions, including scores and the top playmakers to look for in Sunday's championship game. They also assess the significance of injury updates for both teams, such as the Bengals' offensive line and Mahomes' ankle injury.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Mahomes beat the Bengals in his first ever meeting against Cincinnati during a Sunday Night Football showdown at Arrowhead in Week 7 on the 2018 season. He lit up the Bengals' defense by leading the Chiefs to a 35-point victory as that year marked Mahomes' first-ever AFC Championship game appearance.

Times have since changed though. Mahomes has not beaten the Bengals since quarterback Joe Burrow joined the franchise, losing to Burrow in each of their last three head-to-head matchups. Burrow outdueled Mahomes in a Week 11 showdown that saw the Bengals defeat the Chiefs, 27-24, as Mahomes completed just over half of his passes while throwing for a near season-low 227 yards.

However, none of that has changed the fact that Mahomes is the league frontrunner to win what could be his second MVP award. He's also still the league leader in most passing categories ahead of even Burrow. And this Sunday's AFC Championship tilt with the Bengals is the only thing separating Mahomes from his third Super Bowl appearance in four years.

Sunday will be anything but easy for Mahomes and the Bengals' defense. Cincinnati defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has gotten the last laugh but Mahomes had nearly come close to doing the same in those three matchups.

What do the Bengals do differently against Mahomes? Do they do anything differently? They've faced Mahomes with and without star receiver Tyreek Hill who's now in Miami. Don't forget about All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce though. He's been Mahomes' go-to target and that will leave linebacker Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt with their hands full.

The Strictly Stripes Crew compares and contrasts the last three matchups between both teams to what's coming up this Sunday at Arrowhead. They debate whether Mahomes' ankle will be much of a factor and all and how much that changes the gameplan.

Special contributor Lance Reisland also breaks down the film from the Bengals' divisional win last weekend over Buffalo to explain what went right. He also weighs in on how the Bengals should get to Mahomes.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Michael Niziolek and special contributor Lance Reisland.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Despite possessing a late lead in each of their last three matchups with Cincinnati, the Chiefs haven't been able to finish the job. Part of that is due to Burrow finding a way to keep the Bengals in the game, including last month's 27-24 win in Cincinnati even though the Chiefs possessed a fourth quarter lead.

A complementary defense led by "mad scientist" Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has also played a big role in flustering quarterback Patrick Mahomes in each of their last three meetings. However, Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnoulo hasn't been able to say much of the same about Burrow.

Burrow has completed over 70% of his passes against the Chiefs while averaging over 325 passing yards per game and throwing just one interception to eight touchdowns in those three meetings. Wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase has played a big part of that success as he's scored a touchdown against the Chiefs every time he's played them, even catching a career-high 266 receiving yards in last year's Week 17 matchup.

The Chiefs' defense is slightly improved from last year's squad that finished with the sixth-worst total defense in the NFL, but it still hasn't completely cracked the code on stopping Burrow.

That will have to change with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line this weekend.

That doesn't mean Burrow is guaranteed to keep busting moves on the Chiefs, so what kind of gameplan should the Bengals expect for them to have? Moreover, how do the Bengals adjust to what the defense presents without abandoning their identity?

The Strictly Stripes crew lays out the framework for what's allowed Burrow to win most of his matchup against the Chiefs. Then, they assess how well the protection has played a part in his ability to throw off the Chiefs' defense while weighing on what running back Joe Mixon's role should look like.

Special guest Dan Hoard, the "Voice of the Bengals," joins the crew to give a special interpretation of Burrow on top of setting the stage for Sunday's AFC Championship.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Surprisingly or unsurprisingly, depending on who you ask, the Bengals are back in the AFC Championship game and they're doing battle with the same Chiefs team they faced last season. And they're heading back to Arrowhead Stadium.

This Sunday's tilt will be the fourth meeting between these two foes in just the last two years. Kansas City came to Cincinnati back in December and the Bengals defeated the Chiefs, 27-24, the same score as last year's overtime victory.

Since beating the Bengals in Kansas City back in 2018, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has never defeated them nor quarterback Joe Burrow. Burrow has five playoff wins in his short but storied career and has a chance to win his second one against Mahomes.

Asking the Burrow and the Bengals to defeat Mahomes on his own turf is a tall, tall task. Kansas City has only lost at home once this season, but their only home loss in 2021 came when the Bengals came to town and upset the Chiefs to win the AFC Championship.

The Bengals will have unfinished business to resolve from last year's Super Bowl loss to the Rams, but in order to get back to the big stage, they have to get past Mahomes, who will be playing this weekend despite rolling his ankle in a divisional round win over Jacksonville.

That has oddsmakers placing the Bengals as 1-point favorites. Will they be able to back that up in Kansas City with Arrowhead's raucous, loud, if not the loudest, crowd for any opposing NFL team?

The Strictly Stripes crew explains why the Bengals have garnered attention as of late following their statement divisional victory over Buffalo on the road last weekend. Why should other teams give praise for the Bengals coaching staff led by head coach Zac Taylor? They answer and explain how and why.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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The Cincinnati Bengals are back in the AFC Championship almost exactly one year from the day they made it to the big game following a commanding divisional round victory on the road against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday afternoon.

Unsurprisingly, the Bengals will head back to Arrowhead Stadium to rematch the Chiefs after defeating them in last year's title game in overtime. But this will more specifically be a fresher rematch of last December's victory against the Chiefs in Cincinnati by that same score.

Back to Buffalo though. The Bengals played a complete game and didn't get the Bills take a lead, no matter how close Bills quarterback Josh Allen and his team was to swinging the game away from Cincinnati.

Although Allen was a forceful challenge for Lou Anarumo's defense, the Bengals limited him to just enough magical plays that limited the Bills to just 10 points. Meanwhile, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow blocked out the snow, noise and cold weather to put together another maestro postseason performance just as he's mostly done in his young playoff career.

Make that 10 straight wins for the Bengals, extending their franchise record that they already set with wild card win last weekend over Baltimore. The Bengals may not have been placed as the same competitive tier as Buffalo and Kansas City by some experts in the preseason. Yet, the Bengals proved they can not only be in the same tier, but defeat those teams to get back to the big game.

The Strictly Stripes crew has another playoff postgame edition on deck as they look at every single ankle that went the Bengals' way. They also give a premature set-up for next week's AFC Championship rematch with Kansas City and explain how close the Bengals can make that game.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After surviving an upset-minded Ravens team in the wild card round last weekend, 24-17, Cincinnati heads to Buffalo to face a Bills team that survived a similarly upset-minded Dolphins team led by third-string quarterback Skylar Thompson, 34-31.

Never mind the fact the Bills are No. 2 seed and the Bengals are defending AFC champions looking to run back their conference title. This is the playoffs. Nothing is out of the realm of possibility.

The Week 17 matchup between both of these teams was supposed to show a window of what a respective showdown would look like, but that game was ultimately postponed and cancelled. There's not much tape for either team to take away from the other after just nine minutes of action between the two.

Buffalo's biggest question mark is whether quarterback Josh Allen can hold onto the ball effectively after being turnover-prone against Miami last weekend. On the flip side, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will have to do battle without three-fifths of his starting offensive line as Jonah Williams and Alex Cappa will both be out for Sunday's game.

As discussed on the Strictly Stripes podcast earlier this week, the defining features for the Bengals will be how well Burrow can sustain pressure and whether or not they can win the red zone battle with Buffalo. Nonetheless, these will all go into the makings of what could be another heart-throbbing playoff battle.

The Strictly Stripes crew convenes to give their final predictions and thoughts on Sunday's upcoming divisional matchup for the right to play in the AFC title game. They explain why this will be a close game, no matter who wins, and they grade criticism of the Bengals from outside critics as Cincinnati is a 5.5.-point underdog.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Why the color red? Because both teams will give their best efforts on both sides of the ball inside their respective 20-yard lines, aka, the red zone.

If the adage "defense wins championships" has any merit, the Bengals proved that in their wild card win over the Ravens last weekend thanks to Sam Hubbard's fumble return that will forever be discussing in Cincinnati sports lore. That may have been the Bengals' biggest red zone stop of the season and one of the biggest in franchise history.

The Bengals' defense will need that this Sunday when they battle one-time MVP favorite and Bills quarterback Josh Allen for the right to play in the AFC title game. Despite playing one drive against the Bills' offense in their initial Monday Night Football meeting before it was cancelled, the Bengals stopped Allen in the red zone and forced Buffalo to kick a field goal.

However, the key won't just be stopping Allen in the red zone. Cincinnati will have to allow Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and his offense to operate efficiently when he's inside the 20-yard line this weekend. Buffalo's red zone defense will go against a high-powered Bengals red zone offense that's fifth in the league in red zone touchdown scoring percentage.

So, whether they're going against Allen or relying on Burrow, the Bengals need to win in the red zone.

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down what has to work in the red zone for the Bengals on both sides of the ball. Speaking of quarterbacks, they reopen the debate on whether Allen or Burrow is the superior quarterback.

Local 12 Cincinnati columnist Richard Skinner also joins the crew as a special guest.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Almost exactly a year ago, Burrow was sacked an NFL-record nine times in last year's divisional playoff victory at Tennessee. Although the Bengals won that game on a walk-off field goal, Cincinnati barely hung on for the win as those nine sacks were just some of the league-leading 70 times Burrow was sacked last season.

Although the pocket has fared much better for Burrow this season, three of the Bengals four losses this year have come every time Burrow was sacked at least three times in a game. The only exception to that is last week's playoff win over Baltimore, when Burrow was sacked four times, thanks to defensive end Sam Hubbard's historic hometown heroics in that game.

Burrow was without two of his starting lineman, Alex Capa and La'el Collins, before left tackle Jonah Williams with down with a dislocated kneecap. While Collins is out for the rest of the season, Burrow could very well be without Cappa and Williams in Buffalo this weekend as neither of the two practiced on Wednesday.

That means the Bengals will likely turn to former second-round pick and Cincinnati-area product Jackson Carman, who's mainly struggled since joining the Bengals, if Williams can't go. Rookie left guard Cordell Volson and veteran center Ted Karras would be the only other starters who have played every other game this season. Hakeem Adeniji, who played in last year's postseason run, will be at right tackle for the rest of the playoffs too.

Given Buffalo boasts a top-ten ranked defense and the fifth-best graded pass rush, according to Pro Football Focus, that could be a problem for Burrow. Statically, Burrow has been throwing the ball quicker and more accurately than last year while avoiding sacks at a higher rate.

Will Burrow be able to continue his magic with up to three-fifths of his starting front potentially out?

Furthermore, how do his receivers, primarily Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase, match up against Buffalo's tandem with Stefon Diggs and Gabriel Davis? Interestingly, there's a strong case to be made for comparing both units as the latter has thrived with MVP preseason favorite Josh Allen this year. Where do they fit with helping Burrow escape pressure on Sunday?

The Strictly Stripes crew explains how dire the situation is up front for Burrow compared to last year's brutal hits that he sustained leading up and into the Super Bowl. They compare and contrast the old Burrow with the new Burrow and assess whether he or Allen have the upper hand on Sunday.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After watching their win over the Ravens come down to the very last play of regulation, Cincinnati has to quickly turn the page and plan for the Bills. Buffalo also survived a wacky wild card game just hours before the Bengals' win.

There's a lot that's different between planning for the divisional archrival Ravens and a Bills team that the Bengals faced just over two weeks ago. Baltimore's triple option offense that was without quarterback Lamar Jackson is a stark contrast from an offense led by one-time MVP favorite Josh Allen.

Similarly, though, just as the Bengals have had to plan for the Ravens in back-to-back weeks, they're also planning for the Bills for the second time in less than a month. That comes with added benefits but challenges too as both teams try to get a leg up on each other in terms of game planning and preparation.

Buffalo will have to deal with a red-zone defense that was emphasized by defensive end Sam Hubbard's record-breaking fumble return for a touchdown in last weekend's win over Baltimore. On the flip side, that same Cincinnati red zone defense has to plan for Allen and a Bills' wide receiving corps led by Stefon Diggs.

The real weakness for the Bengals overall will be their offensive line assuming either Alex Cappa and/or Jonah Williams aren't good to go for Sunday's game. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is playing at a higher level compared to last year, when the Bengals had a weaker wall, so there's that upside for Cincinnati.

Expect Buffalo to take advantage of that. But who will take advantage of the other's flaws more aggressively?

The Strictly Stripes crew puts a bow on the weekend and sets the stage for this week's divisional showdown between two teams picking up where they left off after their initial meeting this season was canceled.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After last year's wild card over the Raiders came down to the final play of the game, the Cincinnati Bengals open this year's postseason with a win over the Baltimore Ravens in very similar fashion.

There was no interception from Germaine Pratt to seal the deal (although there almost was), but the Ravens were one Hail Mary away from potentially sending the game to overtime and nearly knocking off the defending AFC champion Bengals.

From Sam Hubbard's legendary fumble return touchdown to Joe Burrow's ability to sustain pressure from the Ravens' pass rush, the Bengals somehow sneak out another playoff as they have won playoff games in back-to-back seasons for the first time in franchise history.

Speaking of franchise history, that win marks their ninth-straight win, the longest-ever win streak in team history.

There's a lot for the Bengals to celebrate and enjoy after exorcising some prime-time demons on Sunday Night Football. However, there's certainly much the Bengals need to unpack, including their now hobbled and banged up offensive line, a lack of rhythm from Burrow in the game's final stanza and several missed plays by Cincinnati's defense.

They're on to Buffalo as they'll play the Bills for the first time since that fateful Monday Night Football game almost weeks ago. How concerned should the Bengals be as they hope to return to back-to-back AFC Championship games?

The Strictly Stripes Crew is at Paycor Stadium with all the analysis, input and insight on what made the Bengals' win special and why they shouldn't celebrate too hard before getting ready for Buffalo. They also hand out their weekly game balls and set the stage for next Sunday.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Exactly one year removed from their historic wild card win over the Las Vegas Raiders, the Cincinnati Bengals host a playoff game once again this weekend when the Baltimore Ravens come into town on Sunday night. This marks the first time both of these divisional foes have ever met in the postseason."

Third times the charm, right?

These teams are a week removed from their regular season finale matchup when the Bengals handed the Ravens a 27-16 loss, giving the Bengals a home playoff game after they won the AFC North with controversial playoff implications. Baltimore will be without starting quarterback Lamar Jackson and backup quarterback Tyler Huntley is questionable with tendonitis in his right shoulder.

That has the sixth-seeded Ravens as perennial underdogs coming into Cincinnati, but nothing is set in stone until both teams take the field. Baltimore's highly ranked defense will look to exploit a Bengals offensive line that will be down two starters on the right side with the hope of giving quarterback Joe Burrow relapses of his playoff nightmares last year.

Does this mean a potential upset is looming in Cincinnati? Or will the Bengals shut out their critics and win their franchise record ninth-straight playoff game?

The Strictly Stripes crew goes into a lengthy debate about whether or not the Ravens are as depleted as they look on paper or if the Bengals truly are favored in this wild card matchup. They also give their predictions and thoughts on who might be the biggest playmakers and how much the Bengals' offensive line will take a beating.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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A pass heavy team that has leaned in on quarterback Joe Burrow's passing glamour, the Bengals haven't witnessed much efficiency from their run game. After Bengals' running backs Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine respectively bounced back in the middle of the season with respective top-notch performances, those seem like a distant memory again.

Mixon, who is averaging 3.9 yards per carry this season, and Perine, who's slightly north of him at 4.1 yards per carry, will need to find some sort of rhythm again after being mostly quiet since December. On top of the fact that the right side of the offensive line is hampered by injuries, the Bengals won't rely exclusively on Burrow who might be in for a long day against the Ravens this weekend.

Baltimore will likely have all of their defensive starters rested and healthy for Sunday night's wild card matchup in Cincinnati after losing to the Bengals less than a week ago. The Bengals enter this weekend with a franchise-record eight game win streak, while the six-seeded Ravens want to spoil the party as they'll be without starting quarterback Lamar Jackson for the sixth straight game.

What will the Bengals have to do in order to have an efficient run game this weekend? And how much will Burrow be safe from a ravenous Ravens pass rush?

The Strictly Stripes crew debates how much is necessary from Perine and Mixon and what their roles could and should look like against Baltimore. They're also joined by special guest Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic as they examine the role and significance of having momentum entering the playoffs.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Michael Niziolek and special guest Paul Dehner Jr.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After Ravens starting QB Lamar Jackson didn't practice with the Ravens on Wednesday, there's doubt the former MVP will start in Sunday night's wild card game in Cincinnati. Compounded by the fact that backup Tyler Huntley might be questionable for this weekend, that leaves Baltimore's QB situation in limbo.

Anthony Brown Jr. made his first-ever career start as an NFL QB when the Ravens came to Cincinnati last weekend. There's a good chance that he might be under center again this Sunday.

When the Bengals look at their takeaways and turnover margin, they should be confident. They rank in the top ten amongst all teams in those respective categories. Sure, there isn't one player who sticks out as one of the league's most feared at their respective position. But big game changing plays have gotten the Bengals up to this point.

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the Ravens' current situation under center and examines what the Bengals need to do to make sure they avoid any funny looks from head coach John Harbaugh's playbook. They also look at what the Bengals need to do to avoid a breakout game from Huntley and/or Brown, which includes stopping tight end Mark Andrews.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After losing right guard Alex Cappa in Sunday's regular season finale victory over Baltimore, the Bengals could now be without two of their offensive line starters this week. Right tackle La'el Collins is already out for the rest of the year on the injured reserve after tearing his ACL against New England.

The right side of the offensive line is in deep, deep trouble.

Assuming Cappa isn't good to go for the Bengals' Wild Card round rematch with the Ravens on Sunday, backup Max Scharping will get the nod. He had 33 career starts with the Houston Texans before being picked up off of waivers before the start of this season. Hakeem Adeniji will continue filling in for Collins, meanwhile.

Quite a challenge for the Bengals as quarterback Joe Burrow will need all the protection in the world against a Ravens defense that will be as stout as it was even on Sunday. Could this be a repeat of Burrow's playoff horrors last year when he was sacked left and right?

More importantly, Burrow will have to make sure that his offense's performance in the second half against Baltimore was just simply a fluke. If not, the upset-minded Ravens might try to have a chance to play spoiler this Sunday night.

Speaking of which, the offseason hasn't arrived, yet, but there's already five head coaching vacancies across the league that could turn into six. Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan and defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo might be in the mix for either of those jobs. How realistic is that?

The Strictly Stripes crew sets up the big stage for the Bengals as they look to begin their journey of running back the AFC crown through another challenging postseason. They also explain how dire the situation for the Bengals' offensive line and debate whether Callahan or Anarumo are really in the mix for any head coaching jobs.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After holding off against a feisty Baltimore Ravens squad that wanted to play spoiler on Sunday, the Bengals wouldn't let anyone spoil their AFC North crown. Cincinnati wins back-to-back division titles for the first time in franchise history with their 27-16 win over Baltimore.

Instead of having to flip a coin to determine home field for next week's wild card round, Bengals running back Joe Mixon flipped his own personal coin to celebrate in the middle of the game. Whether you want to say there was a chip on the Bengals' shoulders or not, they were fired up and ready to live up to their motto, "They gotta play us."

The Bengals sported a 24-7 lead at halftime and nearly watched it slip away in the second half despite the Ravens' not playing multiple players on Sunday, including running back J.K. Dobbins and quarterback Tyler Huntley. There were flashes of the same miscues that they showed against Tampa Bay and New England several weeks ago.

How much are those miscues a concern for the Bengals though? The Ravens will certainly have a different looking team next week when they return to Cincinnati. What can the Bengals do to avoid a repeat of anything from their last three games when Baltimore comes back?

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down how the Bengals played in the second half, what changed and what the concern is entering next weekend. Already without right tackle La'el Collins for the rest of the year, they could be without Alex Cappa based on the severity on an ankle injury that caused him to exit the game early.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After the league officially cancelled the Bengals-Bills game this week, they confirmed what the playoff implications for the AFC would look like after reaching an agreement. However, that has Bengals head coach Zac Taylor and most of the team frustrated and dissatisfied with a resolution that they consider inequitable.

One of the biggest concerns stems from the fact that despite winning the AFC North by virtue of the cancellation, the Bengals will have to flip a coin, if they lose to Baltimore this weekend, and are matched against them in the playoffs, to determine where the game will be played. All of that, amongst other changes, comes as Taylor said the league didn't go by the written rules.

This doesn't overshadow the emphasis on Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin's progressive recovery. But this is a crossroads for a Bengals team that has gone through a long and challenging week since Hamlin collapsed on the field at Paycor Stadium on Monday night. Now their focus shifts to a rematch with a Ravens team that beat them back in Week 5.

The Ravens will look different on both sides of the ball. Most notably, Lamar Jackson won't be under center as he hasn't practiced in a month with a knee injury. Meanwhile, Baltimore's defense boasts Pro Bowl linebacker Roquan Smith, who was acquired via trade from Chicago earlier this season.

With the latest implications and challenges the Bengals have faced, they will certainly be fired up as they look to close out the regular season on a strong note after an adverse week.

The Strictly Stripes Crew tries to make sense of the lengthy and tricky implications the Bengals are potentially facing in the postseason. Then, they delve into Sunday matchups and preview Sunday's regular season finale.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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They know they will not finish their Week 17 game with the Buffalo Bills that was cancelled after Damar Hamlin's medical emergency postponed the game. What they don't know exactly, though, is how the playoff picture will look based on the inequities that result from the cancellations.

There are countless scenarios that the NFL will run through to decide what happens from here, but one thing is certain: The Bengals, who are technically back-to-back AFC North champions, have to beat the Ravens on Sunday if they want to have any shot at hosting a playoff game. Everything else from there is relative.

However, the shift of focus on the Ravens for the Bengals locker room has been aided by the progress made in Hamlin's recovery on Thursday. Multiple players personally impacted by Hamlin's collapse, including Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd, seemed to be in good spirit after the reassuring news on Hamlin.

The specific focus will be on a Ravens team that has Roquan Smith but doesn't have Lamar Jackson. What will that look like for the Bengals? How do they outlast the Ravens to solidify their new division title?

The Strictly Stripes crew explains all the different playoff scenarios, what they mean and how they impact the Bengals. Plus, they're joined by special guest Elise Jesse who covers the team for AllBengals Sports Illustrated. Finally, they wrap up by discussing Willie Anderson's chances of making the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis, Michael Niziolek and special guest Elise Jesse.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field during Monday night's game at Paycor Stadium, there was lots of uncertainty surrounding his condition, the status of the game and what was to come all in that moment. Both the Bills and Bengals were left confused in what was described as chaos by Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and fellow team captain D.J. Reader.

The Bills-Bengals game will not be made up this week but there hasn't been any determination as to whether the game will resume in the future or not. There also isn't a clear consensus from Bengals players on how this Sunday's game with Baltimore should unfold, with mixed feelings in the locker room, according to Burrow.

The focus is undoubtedly on Hamlin's health and recovery. But that's where players have had to figure out how to cope with Monday's tragic events while trying to focus on the end of the regular season and beyond.

There's a lot to unpack in the here and now while moving forward. What's next for the Bengals? How will the future look or depend on what's decided by the players and the league?

The Strictly Stripes crew reconvenes after several days away following Monday's events as they first and foremost wish nothing but a healthy recovery for Hamlin and his health. They layout the framework of how Monday unfolded, what got us here and what to expect moving forward.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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AFC supremacy is on the line in Cincinnati when the six-game win streak-riding Bills battle the Bengals who are hoping to get their franchise-record eighth straight win. Depending on what happens between Baltimore and Pittsburgh in prime-time on Sunday night, the Bengals could even clinch the AFC North on Monday.

The last time the Bengals hosted a Monday Night Football game, they upset a then-playoff bound Pittsburgh Steelers team in a rainy, crowd-less game without quarterback Joe Burrow two years ago. His season ended prematurely to an ACL injury and the Bengals were already eliminated from the playoffs.

That was then. The weather should be clear, Paycor Stadium just might be hosting another near record-setting crowd and there will be playoff implications for both teams on the line. The minds behind the NFL schedule truly did save the best for last with this game in mind.

The hype will continue building into a crescendo until the ball is kicked off on Monday night. So, who comes out on top, and who leads the way for either team?

The Strictly Stripes crew gives their final thoughts and predictions for the big game. They also debate whether Burrow or Josh Allen is the quarterback to beat.

This podcast features Andrew Gillis, Mohammad Ahmad and Michael Niziolek. You can listen by using the player below.

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Maybe that's why Josh Allen and the top-seeded Buffalo Bills coming to town is only fitting for the final Monday Night Football matchup of the year. Allen, who was the preseason favorite for MVP entering this season, is still in the mix for potentially beating out Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow depending on how Monday night goes.

The Bills will bring a six-game win streak to Cincinnati while the Bengals will look to tie a franchise-record with their eighth straight victory. Buffalo brings a top-ten offense, and a top-ten defense that will keep the Bengals' hands full. Allen has proven to be a challenging quarterback to defend, tackle and confuse for most defenses he's faced this season.

Even more challenging? Trying to keep Allen from hitting one of the best receivers in the league: Stefon Diggs. Although Diggs has been quiet for the last three weeks, he's still shown why he's one of the league's most elite receivers. But just how elite will he be against the Bengals?

Furthermore, will the Bengals' defense shut down the hype and quiet down the Bills' offense? If they do that, it will require making sure the game isn't quite a tale of two halves like each of the last two weeks have been.

Jay Morrison of the The Athletic joins the Strictly Stripes Podcast crew to talk about how much the hype for this game compares and contrasts to other Monday Night Football games the Bengals have played in franchise history. He also dissects what makes Allen so good and how the Bengals can achieve success against him. The Strictly Stripes crew talks more about what defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has to draw up to keep up the streak he's had since the bye week.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Michael Niziolek and special guest Jay Morrison.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After playing away from home for over two weeks, the Bengals welcome the Buffalo Bills to Cincinnati for Monday Night Football this week. It's the first Monday night game in Cincinnati in over two seasons. There will be multiple challenges for the Bengals on both sides of the ball.

Ja'Marr Chase and the Bengals' receiving corps will have to go against a secondary led by Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White. White, who returned from an ACL injury last month, will look to contain Chase, Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd as Buffalo boasts the seventh-best defense in the league, a

However, the secondary has struggled against most of the No. 1 receivers they've faced from their respective opponents this season. Safety Jordan Poyer is also questionable for Monday's game, which raises the question as to whether the Bills' secondary is more vulnerable than they might appear.

The Bengals' receivers will have to build off of some rare miscommunications they had against New England that contributed to two picks from QB Joe Burrow. Nonetheless, they've been part of the strong foundation of a Bengals team that's won nine of their last 10 games.

But who will back up Burrow behind right tackle in order for him to have that sustained succes? Will it be Hakeem Adeniji or Isaiah Prince? The Bengals might be more comfortable with Adeniji as a swing tackle while Prince played right tackle for most of last season's Super Bowl run.

Burrow also has a chance to make an even stronger showing for why he should be MVP. He and Bills QB Josh Allen are in the top three in the MVP rankings behind Patrick Mahomes, adding even more juice to an exciting matchup on Monday.

The Strictly Stripes Podcast tries to solve the mystery at right tackle all while weighing the Bengals' receivers against the Bills' secondary. They also lay out the roadwork for Burrow to potentially sneak his way into the top spot for the MVP rankings.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After playing every game this season with the same offensive line starters, the Cincinnati Bengals' front has taken a big hit. Right tackle La'el Collins is out for the foreseeable future. That means the Bengals will put their trust in swing tackle and three-year pro Hakeem Adeniji.

Adeniji, who's played multiple positions on the line, will have some big shoes to fill as the Bengals face another top ten defense against Buffalo next Monday night at Paycor Stadium. Cincinnati's interior front, which has held up fairly well since the bye week, just might have its toughest test yet.

The stakes couldn't be higher for the Bengals. A win, coupled with a Ravens loss to Pittsburgh on Sunday night, means they are back-to-back AFC North champions for the first time in team history. That would also keep their hopes up for a chance to take the AFC's top seed for the first time since 1988.

What would the Bengals offensive line look like? How much has Adeniji improved from last year's playoff run? And will Monday's game live up to the aforementioned hype?

The Strictly Stripes Podcast crew answers those questions and more as they assess the hole left behind by Collins' injury. They also look back at how the special teams performed last weekend and how much that experience will be critical down the stretch.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After overcoming a 17-0 deficit against Tampa Bay last weekend, the Bengals nearly watched their 22-0 lead dwindle away against the Patriots in New England on Saturday. Thanks to a strong defensive stand late in the game though, the Bengals leave Foxborough with a 22-18 thrilling victory for their seventh straight win.

Saturday's game truly was a tale of two halves. The Bengals defense shut out New England in the first half on top of a strong performance from quarterback Joe Burrow who threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns while overcoming two interceptions.

Although the Bengals allowed 18 unanswered against quarterback Mac Jones and his offense, Cincinnati still lived up to the moment and stood firm after Vonn Bell forced a fumble from running back Rhamondre Stevenson with under two minutes left in the game. Up front, multiple names helped step up in place of the injured Sam Hubbard as Jones was sacked four times by five players.

The Strictly Stripes podcast crew explains why the Bengals' last two games have been so similar yet so different in terms of playing between the first and second half. They also discuss what that means with Buffalo and Baltimore coming up to wrap up the season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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After the Jets fell to the Jaguars on Thursday night, the Bengals clinched a playoff spot by virtue of that loss. Sitting at 10-4, they control their own destiny for the AFC North and even a top-two seed in the AFC, mirroring a run the Bengals haven't seen since they made five straight playoff appearance in the last decade.

Nothing is guaranteed for Cincinnati though. They have to find a way to thaw through a New England Patriots team who could potentially see their playoff hopes falter away if they lose to the Bengals on Christmas Eve. The Bengals have never won a game at Gillette Stadium. Never.

Cincinnati has only beaten Patriots head coach Bill Belichick twice, with the most recent win coming back in 2013. The Bengals will be fairly healthy as they'll be without tight end Hayden Hurst for the third straight game and edge rusher Sam Hubbard.

The Strictly Stripes Podcast crew gives you all the final updates, predictions and previews you need for Saturday's battle for AFC playoff supremacy.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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They're still alive in the playoff race and have a chance to secure a Wild Card spot in the playoffs with three games left this season. That will make Saturday's game against the Bengals a much feistier game as the Patriots try to avoid missing the playoffs for only the fourth time during head coach Bill Belichick's tenure.

Cincinnati will be just as aggressively fighting to keep its chances of winning the AFC North alive on top of potentially securing a top-seed in the conference if they can win out for the rest of the year. However, the Bengals will likely be without edge rusher Sam Hubbard and could be without Trey Hendrickson on Saturday as a lengthy list of players will be questionable for this weekend's game.

New England's offense has mostly struggled with quarterback Mac Jones and running back Rhamondre Stevenson, despite the latter averaging almost five yards a carry this season. Stopping Stevenson from having a breakout game, along with limiting Jones, is imperative for the Bengals' defense to remain successful on Saturday.

The Strictly Stripes Podcast crew breaks down the different angles that the Bengals' defense will have to attack this coming weekend. Plus, they're joined by AllBengals Sports Illustrated reporter James Rapien to evaluate each team's gameplans on both sides of the ball.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Michael Niziolek and James Rapien.

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This weekend, the Bengals will face the New England Patriots and their two talented edge rushers: Matthew Judon and Josh Uche. Judon is playing at a Pro Bowl level as he has been for over the last three seasons. New England also boasts a top-10 ranked defenses which is due in part to that front.

They're led by one of the greatest head coaches and defensive minds in the game, Bill Belichick. And the Bengals will deal with a Patriots team fighting to keep their thin playoff hopes alive. The task for Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is making sure that he can continue beating most edge rushers as he's faced for the better part of the last six games.

Cornerback Devin McCourty is well out of his prime, but he's still been consistently effective for the Patriots. Receiver Ja'Marr Chase and the three-headed Bengals' receiving corps will have to find a way to continue building on the success they had in first full game back together since Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins were hurt against the Browns.

That will also provide a chance for Burrow to elevate his chances of winning MVP as it's still a three-way race for the crown with three weeks left.

The Strictly Stripes crew looks at everything that awaits the Bengals' offense:

• How do the Bengals outsmart Belichick?
• What can Burrow do to improve his MVP odds?
• Who breaks out for the Bengals' receiving corps?
• Why is New England's defense underrated?

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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No, that was not the prettiest win the Bengals had against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday evening. That's certainly not how the Bengals thought that game would from the first snap.

Down 17-0 to the one of the greatest quarterbacks of all-time before halftime, Tom Brady, the Bengals were seemingly let him do whatever he wanted. Bengals QB Joe Burrow was playing one of his poorest first-halves of the season. And that came virtually lifeless running game that saw success over the last four weeks.

Was Sunday's game a sign that the Bengals five-game win streak a fluke? Not at all.

On the contrary.

The Bengals played one their best halves of football they've play all year thanks to rare consecutive takeaways from their defense. Burrow looked like the calm, cool and collected Burrow he's been in the last seven weeks. And they did it against an inconsistent Buccaneers team that looked to play the spoiler in front of the Tampa faithful.

The Strictly Stripes Podcast crew explains why this was a win the Bengals needed, even for the way the game started and unfolded. They break down and assess:

• Was this the best second half of a game the Bengals have played all year?
• Why was the Bengals defense able to get so many takeaways?
• What was different about the way Joe Burrow responded in the second half?
• Where do the Bengals need to make adjustments with a short week coming up?

Plus, the crew talks about the significance of some injuries the Bengals suffered while passing out some game balls.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Cincinnati, riding a five-game win streak, will bring the heat to sunny Florida as the Bengals look for their first six-game win streak since their 8-0 start back in 2015. The Tom Brady-led Buccaneers, meanwhile, are hoping to get back to .500 as they are somehow sitting at 1st place in the NFC South at 6-7.

Both teams will have hefty injuries heading into the weekend. The Bengals will be without Trey Hendrickson, Mike Hilton, and Hayden Hurst and will likely be without Jalen Davis. Wide receivers Trent Taylor, Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd have expressed confidence they'll play, but what their roles look like is up in the air.

Bengals QB Joe Burrow will look to take advantage of a depleted Bucs secondary and even interior line as Jamel Dean and Vita Vea will be out among others. However, Lavonte Davis and Devin White have proven to be one of the league's best linebacking duos.

The Strictly Stripes crew finalizes all of Sunday's predictions, previews and injury analysis ahead of the Bengals' big road match.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Defensive end Trey Hendrickson hasn't practiced all week with a wrist injury that could sideline him this Sunday. Nickel cornerbacks Mike Hilton and Jalen Davis also haven't practiced all week either. Davis is nursing a thumb injury and Hilton is battling knee issues. That means that edge rushers Joseph Ossai and Cam Sample will have to step up if Hendrickson is a no-go.

The dilemma for the Bengals is likely starting rookie safety Dax Hill at nickel if neither Hilton nor Davis is ready for this Sunday. Hill has only played a modest amount of snaps all year and has even battled minor injuries since the bye week this season. The only other person behind hill would be veteran reserve and special teamer Michael Thomas.

Future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady has a knack for exploiting matchups featuring young defensive backs. Having star receivers like Chris Godwin and Mike Evans doesn't help. Rookie cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt faces another stiff challenge as he's been thrown into the fray this year.

However, the Bengals have made do without various faces all year, including defensive tackle D.J. Reader who missed six weeks, and cornerback Chidobe Awuzie who's sitting on the season-ending injured reserve. There's also no lack of confidence after stuffing rushers like Derrick Henry and Nick Chubb in recent weeks.

The Strictly Stripes crew takes stock of the injuries the Bengals are battling and the likelihood of not having some of those key players this weekend. They're also joined by special guest and CLNS Media columnist Mike Petraglia, who covered Brady extensively during his time with the New England Patriots. Petraglia breaks down where Brady is today in respect to Bengals QB Joe Burrow.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Michael Niziolek and special guest Mike Petraglia.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady, considered the greatest at this position, will duel off against Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Although Burrow has a long way to go before catching up to Brady's legendary accolades, Burrow seems poised to be on a successful trajectory.

Sunday's matchup between the two would be the first and maybe even the only time they'll cross paths. The stakes couldn't be higher for either player: Burrow is hoping to give the Bengals their sixth straight win as they remain competitive for the AFC North title, and Brady is keeping his 6-7 Bucs afloat in what has been an inconsistent season.

Burrow might have to figure out how to outduel the future Hall of Famer without some of his most trusted weapons. Wide receivers Tee Higgins (hamstring) and Tyler Boyd (finger) were both limited in practice Wednesday. The Buccaneers' defense has also been hampered by injuries though and could be without top players like Vita Vea, Jamel Dean and Mike Edwards.

Which quarterback will outduel the other? Does Burrow put on a show that keeps the MVP conversation a three-way race between him, Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts?

After sustaining recent success at the run game, the Bengals may have just figured out what they want from running backs Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon. Do their roles fluctuate moving forward?

The Strictly Stripes crew assess what a Burrow vs. Brady matchup would look like as they also weight injuries on Cincinnati's offense against Tampa Bay's defense. They also do a quick breakdown of where the MVP race currently stands.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Aside from several season-ending injuries to Drew Sample and Chidobe Awuzie, and D.J. Reader and Ja'Marr Chase missing time in the middle of the year, the Bengals have mostly stayed healthy through the first 14 weeks of the season.

As the Bengals head to Tampa Bay this weekend to face Tom Brady and the Buccaneers, though, that's changing. Edge rushers Trey Hendrickson (wrist) and Joseph Ossai (shoulder) could miss this week's game after sustaining their respective injuries against the Browns last weekend.

Wide receivers Tee Higgins (hamstring) and Tyler Boyd (finger) also saw limited action because of their own injuries as well. That's further compounded by the fact that Hayden Hurst (calf) missed Sunday's game and could even miss more time moving forward.

The silver lining for the Bengals is they have Sam Hubbard and D.J. Reader up front for added support. Trenton Taylor and Trenton Irwin stepped up when needed on Sunday as well. How well can the Bengals hold up without their top stars though?

The Strictly Stripes crew kicks off the new week explaining how significant those injuries are and what those timetables look like. They also set the stage for what Cincinnati should anticipate down south this weekend.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Wide receiver Tyler Boyd left the game after just two plays with a finger injury. His fellow playmaker, Tee Higgins, played just one snap before hamstring issues caught up to him and sidelined him the rest of the afternoon Sunday.

That didn't stop Joe Burrow from targeting a star like Ja'Marr Chase or other backup receivers like Trenton Irwin and Trent Taylor who contributed on key scoring drives that made the difference in the Bengals' 23-10 win over Cleveland.

Cincinnati's defense limited Cleveland to just 10 points mostly due in part to keeping Nick Chubb at just 2.4 yards per carry. Quarterback Deshaun Watson threw for 276 yards, but the Browns were 4-15 on 3rd downs on Sunday.

Rookie cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt and linebacker Logan Wilson were some of the top tacklers and playmakers along with defensive tackle D.J. Reader who contributed providing a valuable presence up front.

The Strictly Stripes crew explains how Cincinnati put together the victory even without tried-and-true stars. They also talk about how fundamental the run defense has been after performances against Chubb and Titans RB Derrick Henry, along with where Burrow fits in the MVP race.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis, Michael Niziolek and Jimmy Watkins.

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However, the Bengals are doing everything they can to keep the Browns from letting that streak repeat itself. Cleveland will come down to Cincinnati with quarterback Deshaun Watson playing his first AFC North opponent under center for the Browns. Both teams are relatively healthy as well entering this weekend's contest.

Bengals tight end Hayden Hurst will be out with a calf injury while Browns receiver Amari Cooper is questionable with a hip injury. Injuries hampered both teams when they last met.

Ja'Marr Chase was the biggest name out for Cincinnati and Chidobe Awuzie tore his ACL in that Monday Night Football battle. Denzel Ward, David Njoku, Wyatt Teller and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah were among the many names that were out for the Browns.

December is here, the Bengals want to assert themselves in the AFC and the Browns want to keep their thin playoff hopes alive. Who will come out on top?

The Strictly Stripes crew gives its final predictions, previews and thoughts ahead of this Sunday's big contest. They also compare and contrast national opinions surrounding the Bengals' recent success.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Instead of facing quarterback Jacoby Brissett, the Cincinnati Bengals will face Deshaun Watson, who's coming off of his first game in 700 games. What isn't different, though, is the Browns still boast one of the league's most electric running backs in Nick Chubb. Chubb ran for over 100 yards the last time the Bengals faced him.

Lou Anarumo's defense is coming off of a performance that was able to keep Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes as efficient as he needed to be. However, he must face the challenge of learning what to expect from refreshed Watson on top of shutting down the Browns' receiving corps that features Amari Cooper.

What does the Bengals gameplan look like? How do they learn their lessons from a Week 8 loss that allowed the Browns to score 32 points?

The Strictly Stripes Crew debates and discuss the keys to limit Watson's impact and durability. Later in the show, Mohammad Ahmad is joined in a 1-on-1 segment with Browns Insider Mary Kay Cabot. They discuss why the Battle of Ohio has been lopsided lately and what to expect from Watson, Chubb, and even the return of Browns tight end David Njoku.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Mary Kay Cabot.

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The Cleveland Browns have beaten the Cincinnati Bengals five straight times dating back to the 2020 season. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has achieved success against his in-state archrivals in large part because of a strong defensive effort from players like edge rusher Myles Garrett and cornerback Denzel Ward.

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has never beaten the Browns in his four games against them. The last time Burrow faced them in Week 8 this season, he was without wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase as Cincinnati fell at Cleveland on Halloween night, 32-13, on Monday Night Football.

However, much has changed for the Bengals. They've won four straight and are playing some of their best ball coming off a win over the Kansas City Chiefs last Sunday. Burrow looks a true MVP contender. Chase will be in the lineup with a chance to give his team an edge.

How will Burrow finally exercise the demons of Garrett and a Browns defense that has had his number for over two seasons? The Strictly Stripes podcast crew explains why the Bengals' offensive line is in better shape since that Week 8 loss and what will look different this weekend. Plus, they continue discussing what the Bengals' running back room will look like with between Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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Perine attacked the air against Pittsburgh before having a balanced attack against the Titans. However, Perine's best ground game this season, and one of the best of his career, came against the Chiefs on Sunday. He averaged five yards per carry in the Bengals' 27-24 win over Kansas City.

Running back Joe Mixon could be cleared this week from the concussion protocol after missing the last two games. But with the way Perine has performed in place of Mixon, should Perine get more snaps than Mixon? Or should there be a more even split between the two backs?

On the other side of the ball, Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo is one of the only defensive coordinators to defeat Patrick Mahomes three times. Anarumo has beaten him three times all in this calendar year alone. And he's organized and schemed plays to beat him using bona fide stars like veteran linebacker Germaine Pratt along with rookies Joseph Ossai and Cam Taylor-Britt among others.

The Strictly Stripes crew discusses how the Bengals should move forward at running back and whether or not it's too early to call Anarumo an "elite" coordinator. Plus, they set the state for this weekend's Battle of Ohio rematch with the Cleveland Browns.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

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They're now winners of four straight after defeating a Kansas City Chiefs squad, 27-24, that was the top-seed in the AFC entering Sunday evening's contest. That's the Bengals' third straight win over one of the NFL's best teams in recent years.

There would be no revenge for Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, whose team wanted to avenge last year's AFC title game loss in overtime to the Bengals back at Arrowhead Stadium in January. Although Mahomes had a moderate performance throwing for 223 passing yards and a rushing touchdown, Kansas City had a costly fumble, and Mahomes was sacked on a critical third down late in the game.

Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase shined in his return from injury for the Bengals and was backed by his fellow star-studded receiver Tee Higgins. Running back Samaje Perine had over 100 yards on the ground in place of injured running back Joe Mixon. Quarterback Joe Burrow elevated his name in the MVP conversation with 286 passing yards and three total touchdowns he produced.

Despite allowing almost 350 total yards of offense, Cincinnati's defense made the big plays that mattered thanks to unsung leaders like Germaine Pratt and Joseph Ossai.

The Strictly Stripes crew digests a win that puts Cincinnati in the forefront of many prominent conversations in the NFL, such as:

• Can Joe Burrow win the MVP award this season?
• How can the Bengals win not just the AFC North, but back-to-back conference titles?
• Will the Bengals play their best football in the final five games of the year?

Plus, they continue breaking down the current playoff picture in the AFC.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Chiefs vs. Bengals. Burrow vs. Mahomes. Reid vs. Hurst. All the trash talk, head-to-head matchups playoff momentum and rivalry excitement come to a head.

1st place Kansas City will look to exorcise demons against a Cincinnati team that has had its number against the Chiefs as of late. The Chiefs have lost six straight games in Cincinnati, with their last win in the Queen City coming back in 1984.

Who will be victorious? How close will the game be? What can we expect from individual players in this matchup?

The Strictly Stripes podcast answers all of those questions ahead of Sunday's big matinee.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Mahomes leads the league in most passing categories this season and is currently the frontrunner to be the next MVP, according to most oddsmakers. Even without the electric Tyreek Hill lined up near him this season, he's still found a way to bring his Chiefs to an AFC-best 9-2 record.

However, Mahomes hasn't been able to translate that success into wins against the Bengals. He's 0-2 in matchups dating to last season, which is due in part to strong second half defense in each of those two games. From a combination of red zone stops to critical turnovers, defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo's disguises and gameplans helped crown the Bengals as AFC champions in Arrowhead Stadium last year.

That was last year. Cincinnati is 7-4 much like last year, and they boast a top-10 ranked defense that limited Derrick Henry to one of his worst career games. The task for the Bengals is keeping Mahomes from going off for another MVP-worthy performance.

The Strictly Stripes crew continues discussing the Mahomes vs. Burrow matchup by explaining what makes Mahomes one of the best, if not the best at his position. They later explain where Anarumo's schemes do and don't change entering this Sunday's showdown in the jungle.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase appears on track to be back for Cincinnati this weekend after being sidelined by a hip injury. Running back Joe Mixon could potentially return from the concussion protocol as well.

Mix in the fact that several Chiefs players, such as Justin Reid and Chris Jones, have already been having pregame chatter about the game, the excitement is only peaking ahead of Sunday's climax.

Playoff stakes aren't the only thing on the line for the Bengals. A win over the conference's top team would assert Cincinnati's dominance in the AFC. Quarterback Joe Burrow could start catching up to MVP frontrunner Patrick Mahomes to the favorite amongst the oddsmaker. And there's a chance these two teams could meet again in the postseason.

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down everything you need to know about the hype surrounding Sunday's game, plus they explain what Burrow needs to do to continue his success against Kansas City.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After an 0-2 start, the defending AFC champion Bengals have now won seven of their last nine games entering Week 13. They're riding a three-game win streak after bouncing back from a blowout loss at Cleveland on Monday Night Football in Week 8.

That streak started and has continued while Ja'Marr Chase has been injured. Quarterback Joe Burrow's passer rating has been above 100 in that stretch. And the Bengals' defense had an envious performance after limiting one-time MVP candidate Derrick Henry to just over two yards per carry.

Cincinnati's schedule only gets harder and harder as the season pushes forward. But, even then, should their respective opponents be extra concerned?

The Bengals will get a taste of that fiery schedule when they welcome Kansas City for the first time since last year's historic AFC championship game back at Arrowhead Stadium. Then they face three more likely AFC playoff contenders down the stretch, including division foe Baltimore in the season finale.

Speaking of the Chiefs, Burrow will duel off against MVP frontrunner Patrick Mahomes. Despite the small sample size of matchups between each other, will the headline of 'Burrow vs. Mahomes' match the legendary battles between 'Brady vs. Manning?'

The Strictly Stripes podcast assesses where the Bengals stand in the upper tier of the AFC and whether or not there is potential for Burrow and Mahomes to headline the league's top quarterback battles in the days to come.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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The Cincinnati Bengals are now 7-4 and escape the month of November with a close 20-16 road win over the Tennessee Titans. After a dismal first half from Cincinnati's offense, quarterback Joe Burrow started finding a groove even as he was without Ja'Marr Chase for the fourth straight game this season.

Defensively, the Bengals accomplished the very tall task at hand of shutting down "King Henry." Titans running back Derrick Henry had nowhere to run or hide for most of the day as Cincinnati's defense showed no mercy to the league's leading rusher.

Without Chase, Burrow found rhythm with tight end Hayden Hurst and wide receiver Tee Higgins who respectively did what they needed to do to keep Cincinnati pressing. Mix in the fact that backup receiver Trenton Irwin made another big catch like he did last week, the Bengals' utilized their already explosive offensive depth.

That also means you can't overlook Samaje Perine and Trayveon Williams helping combine to rush for over 100 yards on Sunday to cap off the Bengals' tit-for-tat win.

The Strictly Stripes crew is in the Music City breaking down why Cincinnati specifically needed this win as they prepare for an even more challenging Kansas City team back at home next week. They also hand out their game balls and explain how Cincinnati will look with the possible return of Chase and Joe Mixon.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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They head down south to Nashville to rematch a Tennessee Titans team that is more than familiar with them. Titans players and their fans will look to avenge that sour 19-16 walk-off loss to the Bengals in January's AFC divisional playoff matchup.

Tennessee will be without one of their pass rushers as outside linebacker Denico Autry is out for Sunday's game. However, the big question mark for the Bengals will be how they draw up their gameplans without running back Joe Mixon. Mixon is also out as well for Sunday with a concussion he sustained against Pittsburgh last week.

Thankfully for the Bengals, running back Samaje Perine had a historic game, Chris Evans returns from injury and Trayveon Williams has showed some progress with limited snaps he's had as of late. The depth is there, but how the Bengals will scheme against the Titans is something to watch for Sunday.

One of the league's top offenses, led by Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, will go against one of the league's underrated defenses as Tennessee is stout even outside of its pass rush. The winner of this game will have major vindication entering December as the playoff stakes heat up in the AFC.

The Strictly Stripes crew lays out all of the elements in what should be one of the most exciting games on deck this Sunday. Plus, they give their final predictions, previews and storylines to watch entering this weekend.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Despite pulling out the 19-16 walk-off win in last year's AFC divisional battle in Nashville, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was sacked nine times, tying a playoff record for most sacks in a playoff game on a quarterback.

While the Bengals' offensive line has drastically changed, the Titans' elite pass rush hasn't. Tennessee still boasts key cogs up front like Jeffery Simmons and Denico Autry alongside Bud Dupree and Harold Landry. Tennessee is coming off of one of its best games of the season where it limited Green Bay to 17 points last week.

However, there is still momentum on the flipside for Cincinnati. Burrow was only sacked twice in the win over Pittsburgh on Sunday and had another efficient performance throwing for over 300 yards. His partner-in-crime and receiving ace Ja'Marr Chase could return from injury on Sunday after practicing with Burrow on Wednesday.

The Bengals are completely avoiding the injury bug on offense as running back Joe Mixon is still in concussion protocol. How will Cincinnati use Samaje Perine and Trayveon Williams if Mixon isn't good to go Sunday? Conversely, how will the Bengals try and stop one of the league's leading rushers in Derrick Henry?

The Strictly Stripes crew explains what makes this Sunday's rematch different from last season's playoff game. Plus, they talk about the rise and drop in Joe Burrow's MVP odds, along with some debates on what makes for a good Thanksgiving meal.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After a well-rested bye week, the Bengals take advantage of that with a crucial 37-30 victory over Pittsburgh on the road. Although far from perfect, the Bengals' offense did what it needed to do without Ja'Marr Chase or Joe Mixon, who exited the game with a concussion.

Defensively, Cincinnati continued showing why it's a second-half team, allowing just a field goal and a garbage time touchdown. However, the Bengals have an even taller task at hand. They head to Tennessee this weekend to face a physical, dominant AFC South opponent in a rematch of last year's divisional playoff game.

The Bengals won that playoff battle 19-16, but that was last year. Tennessee just might be more challenging than they were last season. The Titans still have Derrick Henry and a bullish pass rush that will continue testing an offensive line that's been battled tested in its first real season together.

With lots on the line for both teams in this November rematch, the Strictly Stripes crew breaks down where the Bengals are headed collectively as a team and why. They later discuss how Chase will look if he does indeed return against the Titans, along with what Samaje Perine can provide if Joe Mixon isn't ready to go Sunday.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Even though the stage was slightly different with Kenny Pickett under center, instead of Mitchell Trubisky, the Bengals still kept the Steelers' rookie quarterback from being flashy in the second half of Cincinnati's 37-30 road victory.

Conversely, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow showed off his pizazz and poise coming off a well-rested bye week with a 355-yard, four passing touchdown performance.

Although Burrow would like to take back two of his interceptions, they were both tipped and barely pulled down. One of them was grabbed by star defensive end T.J Watt, who picked Burrow back in that season-opening thriller. But there wasn't much celebration for Watt and his henchmen up front as Cincinnati's offensive line mostly protected their platoon leader Sunday.

While Tee Higgins unsurprisingly impressed with his nine catch, 148 receiving yard performance, the surprise came from the Bengals' scorers. Running back Samaje Perine and backup wide receiver Trenton Irwin combined to catch Burrow's four touchdowns, showcasing depth even with Ja'Marr Chase sidelined with injury.

So, the Bengals are 6-4 and are still competitive in a cutthroat playoff field in the AFC and in the AFC North each, respectively. The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down why this win is more than just a divisional win, along with what the Bengals should appreciate about this game moving forward.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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From the season-opening loss to Pittsburgh that the Bengals wish they could take back, to a walk-off loss at Baltimore and a cursed Halloween night at Cleveland, Cincinnati has lost its first three divisional games this season.

However, the Bengals are coming out of the bye week well rested and sitting at 5-4 just like last season. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, is coming off a home win against the Saints. But the Steelers struggled have been extensive as they sit near the bottom of the AFC North standings at 3-6.

Their quarterback, rookie Kenny Pickett, has been struggling with growing pains. However, the Steelers defense will have their star-studded defenders in defensive end T.J. Watt and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick in the lineup on Sunday against the Bengals.

On the flip side, the Bengals boast a top-10 offense and defense each, respectively. They're without wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, but they will get a big boost with nose tackle D.J. Reader back for the first time in seven games.

All of those elements should keep the Bengals competitive and determined to win their fourth game against Pittsburgh in five games dating back to 2020. The Strictly Stripes crew gives its final predictions, preview and explanations as to why they think the Bengals will get that elusive first divisional victory.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Kenny Pickett will be taking snaps in place of Mitch Trubisky, who the Bengals had to deal with back in the season-opening overtime loss to Pittsburgh. That will post a new challenge for Cincinnati's top-10 ranked defense as Pickett has shown some flashes in an otherwise rough start for himself this season.

Things will look a lot more different as well as the Steelers won't have wide receiver threat Chase Claypool, who was traded to the Chicago Bears before the trade deadline. But other than that, the tried-and-true AFC North rivalry doesn't change as the Bengals are still seeking their first divisional win.

Pittsburgh's offense has been a big part of their lethargic 3-6 start. Running back Najee Harris hasn't been as successful in the pass catching game as he was last year. The Steelers have only scored six offensive touchdowns, with no receiving touchdown being longer than 10 yards.

So, how will the Bengals and their defense avenge the Week 1 loss by slowing down Pickett and company? The Strictly Stripes crew explains what has to go right in a new but familiar matchup this weekend.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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However, that game and the subsequent 0-2 start has fueled the Bengals to rebound with a 5-4 record coming out of the bye. Quarterback Joe Burrow has led Cincinnati to a top-10 offense so far through the first 10 weeks of the season.

Yet that five-turnover game he had against Pittsburgh was one of the worst, if not the worst, performances of his career. Although the Steelers are anything but glamorous with a 3-6 record, they could have safety Minkah Fitzpatrick return from an appendectomy.

Defensive end J.J Watt will certainly be back after picking off Burrow and sacking him in Week 1 before going out with a pectoral injury. His performance was part of a seven-sack effort from his fellow edge rushers in the season-opening overtime win for Pittsburgh.

Still without Ja'Marr Chase, the Bengals will head to the Steel City hoping to seek that first and elusive divisional win of the 2022 season. But how will Cincinnati's offense respond coming out of the bye?

The Strictly Stripes crew revisits and assess that Week 1 loss and what it means moving forward:

• How much will Fitzpatrick's presence or absence affect the game?
• Can the Bengals' offensive line redeem itself on Sunday?
• Are the Bengals meeting the expectations of a top-10 offense on paper?

Plus, the crew continues examining whether Burrow can still make a case for being league MVP down the stretch

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Despite traditionally dominating the Cincinnati Bengals, the Pittsburgh Steelers have mostly been on the losing side of this historic rivalry in the last few seasons. Sitting at 3-6, the Steelers have never had a losing season under head coach Mike Tomlin. Zac Taylor's Bengals, meanwhile, are still defending AFC champions with a 5-4 record.

The Bengals are out of the bye week and back to work looking to avenge their Week 1 overtime loss to Pittsburgh at Paycor Stadium. Both teams are set to battle this Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET at Acrisure Stadium as Cincinnati seeks its first division win of 2022.

There's a lot of good rising tides for the Bengals as defensive tackle D.J. Reader is back and practicing for the first time since suffering a knee injury against the Jets in Week 3. Cornerback Tre Flowers has also been practicing as well and Mike Hilton should see action against his former team.

Will the Bengals' defense get a big boost out of Reader's potential return this Sunday? The Strictly Stripes podcast crew talks about what a defense with Reader would look like, and how that can help the Bengals improve on their Week 1 loss.

The crew also talks about the rare competition at the punter position, along with another temperature check on Cincinnati's chances of winning the AFC North and making the postseason once again.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The Cincinnati Bengals are 5-4 at the bye week. They were 5-4 at the bye week last season. So then, will they make a late run in the second-half of this season, just like the team that won five of seven games to clinch the AFC North before making a deeper postseason run to the Super Bowl.

This year could pose a tougher challenge though. Cincinnati has the strongest strength of schedule among all teams in the NFL for the final nine weeks of the season. They'll have to go through the top teams in the AFC, including Kansas City, Buffalo and Tennessee among others at home and on the road.

On top of all of that, they'll have to navigate those teams with a hobbled secondary and a Ja'Marr Chase-less offense for the first few weeks coming out of the bye and beyond.

Despite the adversity and roadblocks ahead, will the defending AFC champions shock teams and repeat as back-to-back division champs?

The Strictly Stripes crew gives its takes and explains the Bengals' outlook for the second-half of the season:

• What are Joe Burrow's odds of winning the MVP?
• How much more explosive can the offense be when Ja'Marr Chase returns?
• Who are the Bengals' toughest opponents remaining?
• Why can, or can't, the Bengals run through their opponents?

Plus, the crew explains which players might be primed for a breakout second-half of the season, along with some interesting Flashback Friday discussions.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Despite losing defensive tackle D.J. Reader for most of the first half of the year, Cincinnati's pass rush and run defense has mostly seen success, including containing Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in Week 5. Big name players like Logan Wilson, Sam Hubbard and Trey Hendrickson are also building off their respective successes from last season.

However, there have also been challenges, including a hobbled secondary that has a long homestretch for the rest of the year. Several players have underperformed throughout the first half with a chance to turn the page against Pittsburgh in Week 11.

The Strictly Stripes crew hands out its midseason awards to the Bengals defense, including best play, worst play, underperformer, biggest surprise all topped off with an MVP. Later in the show, they also debated who brings the most "fun" amongst the Bengals' defense.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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The 5-4 Cincinnati Bengals are currently enjoying the bye week after a roller coaster first-half start to the year. Offensively, the Bengals have finally begun to find their strides. However, that's come with some with bumps and bruises, including the season opener against Pittsburgh and a Monday night road loss to Cleveland.

With those strides have come some intriguing surprises and moments in different position groups, including plays, stat lines and memorable moments and players.

The Strictly Stripes crew gives out it's midseason awards for the Bengals' offense up to this point, including MVP, best/worst play, underachiever, biggest surprise and more intriguing honors and recognitions.

This episode features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Now entering the bye week exactly halfway through the season, the 5-4 Bengals will to get healthy and rested. They'll need that as they face one of the toughest remaining schedules in the league this season.

With optimism over the return of nose tackle D.J. Reader and cornerback Mike Hilton, Cincinnati will look to take advantage of that. However, there could also be a rare change coming at one special teams position as well.

The Strictly Stripes Crew breaks down why the bye week couldn't have come at a better time.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Cincinnati gets a blowout 42-21 win that saw the Bengals open the game with 35 unanswered points. From the very first play of the game until the final horn, there wasn't much, if anything that Carolina could do to comeback against the Bengals.

Joe Mixon had a career day with over 200 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns.

Defensively, there wasn't much the Bengals had to worry about against quarterback P.J. Walker. But, they stepped up when needed and came up with two critical interceptions in the first half.

Joe Burrow found his rhythm under center so well that he left the game early in the second half with Cincinnati in the driver's seat.

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down everything that went right for the Bengals in the commanding win. Plus, they discusses what this means ahead of a much-needed bye week, along with some personal game balls.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Now without cornerback Mike Hilton, who will be out with a finger injury, Cincinnati could also be without Tre Flowers, who's questionable with a hamstring injury as well. That means Jalen Davis will start for Hilton, and rookie safety Dax Hill could get more looks in sub-packages.

Relying on that depth could be a tall task for a Bengals team hoping to enter the bye week at 5-4 just like last season. How different does that make things look for Cincinnati this weekend and beyond?

The Strictly Stripes crew assess the Bengals' contingency plans for this weekend along with game predictions, prop bets and more previews.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfield by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Coming off its worst loss of the season on Monday, quarterback Joe Burrow attributed part of the loss to a lack of rhythm. Veteran center Ted Karras said his offensive line's performance was "unacceptable." Mix in a season-low rushing day and missed catches and opportunities for the Bengals' wideouts, there's a lot the Bengals can and should improve upon.

Sitting at 4-4, the Bengals will look to enter the bye week 5-4, just like last season. Could that spark another magical run leading to a playoff berth?

The Strictly Stripes crew explains what went wrong in Cleveland offensively and what can go right, including:

• How tough have elite pass rushers been on the offensive line?
• Where can Joe Burrow capitalize on his deep throws?
• Why is the run game still stalling?
• Where can the Bengals still makeup for Ja'Marr Chase's loss?

Plus, the crew breaks down the "Number of the Week," which includes a special shoutout for an important leader on the Bengals.

This podcast features Andrew Gillis and Mohammad Ahmad.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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With top cornerback Chidobe Awuzie headed to the injury reserve soon, the Bengals defense will have to adjust to the crushing blow. Nickelback Tre Flowers' status is up in the air, which could mean Cam Taylor-Britt won't be the only rookie seeing action against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

The upset-minded Panthers and quarterback P.J. Walker will look to come to Cincinnati and exploit that, while Lou Anarumo's defense hopes to rebound and build off of Monday night's loss to Cleveland.

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down and sorts out all the injuries and chaos:

• How will Taylor-Britt step up for Awuzie?
• Are the Panthers a much different offense on paper?
• Where can the Bengals make up for lost ground with the injuries?

Later in the podcast, the crew reviews the latest NFL MVP odds, and discusses whether quarterback Joe Burrow can keep himself in the running for award conversation, and for how long.

The Strictly Stripes podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Garrett sacked Burrow five times and held the Bengals (4-4) to 229 total yards.

The Bengals were without top receiver Ja’Marr Chase because of a hip injury.

Burrow finished 25 of 35 for 232 yards with two TDs and one interception.

Cincinnati has a lot to work on before it plays a Sunday home game against the Carolina Panthers. Add in the fact Chidobe Awuzie and Tre Flowers each exited Monday night’s game with their respective statuses up in the air, that raises even more concerns moving forward.

In this postgame late-night edition of the Strictly Stripes podcast, Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Mike Niziolek break down what the loss means, and what impact it will have on the Bengals going forward.

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While the Bengals won't be placing Ja'Marr Chase on the injured reserve, they're without another backup receiver and could be without starting cornerback Eli Apple who's doubtful with a hamstring injury. On the flipside though, linebacker Logan Wilson and defensive end Trey Hendrickson should be in good shape to return from their respective injuries.

Conversely, the Browns find themselves in a much deeper predicament as at least six players will be out, including cornerback Denzel Ward and tight end David Njoku.

The Strictly Stripes crew analyzes how much those injuries hurt the Browns and/or Bengals, along with their final thoughts on game previews, prop bet predictions and even the best food spot in The Land.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

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Bengals head coach Zac Taylor confirmed Ja’Marr Chase’s hip injury on Friday without going into much detail. What is certain, though, is the Bengals will have to figure out how to get through at least the next 4-6 weeks without their receiving ace.

Quarterback Joe Burrow will have to figure out how to produce the same explosive plays with the help of Tyler Boyd, Tee Higgins and other backup receivers like Michael Thomas. But just how much can he and Taylor replace Chase’s explosive impact?

The Strictly Stripes podcast continues giving more insight on Chase’s injury and what this means for the Bengals, including:

• What can Trent Taylor and Thomas do?
• How much do the Bengals rely on the practice squad?
• Where does Burrow’s game change, if at all?

On top of Chase’s injury, the crew also talks about development’s surrounding Eli Apple’s absence from practice on Friday along with other injury updates from both the Bengals and Browns. Better yet, the crew gets into a fun debate involving some interesting personal superlatives.

The Strictly Stripes podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Mike Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase is likely sidelined for at least the next 4-6 weeks with a hip injury. Now without his top receiving ace, quarterback Joe Burrow will look to rely more on his other targets in Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd among others.

Where do the Bengals go from here following the big hit? The Strictly Stripes crew assesses everything revolving around the Bengals moving forward:

• The timeline of Chase's injury.
• How does Joe Burrow continue his success, but without Chase?
• Do the Bengals do anything before the trade deadline?
• Why can the Bengals win without him?

The Strictly Stripes crew also talks about the state of other injuries on the Bengals' roster and what those could look like in the future as well.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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Bengals writers Mike Niziolek and Mohammad Ahmad are here for the Cincinnati insight, with Dan Labbe and Irie Harris bringing the Browns knowledge, and Doug Lesmerises moderating, as they all talk out the best version of this full defense before the Browns and Bengals play on Monday night.

It starts with Defensive ends (5:56), then moves to:

• Defensive tackles (23:18)
• Linebackers (33:47)
• Kicker (42:39)
• Punter (48:06)
• Cornerbacks (51:43)
• Safeties (1:05:38)
• And the final wrapup (1:13:56)

Thanks for listening to this special edition.

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Stopping Nick Chubb will be far from easy for a defense that will be without D.J. Reader and could be without Logan Wilson for another week. However, the Bengals come off a big win with big stops against Atlanta's rushing attack last Sunday.

On this edition of Strictly Stripes, the crew breaks down what the injuries mean for Cincinnati, including:

• How much can the Bengals stop Chubb?
• Will the Browns stop themselves?
• Where can the Bengals' offense take off in Cleveland?

Plus, the crew engages with some Rapid Fire Q&A about the Monday night matchup.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After playing at home for the first time in almost a month, the Bengals pounce over the Atlanta Falcons as they are now above .500 for the first time this season following a 35-17 win on Sunday afternoon. Cincinnati never trailed once and it had its best start of the season, scoring on its first four drives of the game.

The Strictly Stripes podcast has the full breakdown of everything that went right with the Bengals aerial attack as they look at:

• How Joe Burrow threaded the needle against the Falcons' poor pass defense.
• What Tyler Boyd and Ja'Marr Chase showed through their big games.
• Why the Bengals depth on the front line is a really big deal moving forward.
• What makes the receiving corps so unselfish?

The crew also wraps up by explaining how and why Sunday's win over Atlanta is pivotal moving forward before the bye week.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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After splitting a pair of road matches in Baltimore and New Orleans, the Bengals host the Atlanta Falcons at Paycor Stadium this Sunday looking to get back above .500 to stay ahead in the AFC North race. Could this be another game where the offense continues firing from all cylinders?

The Strictly Stripes podcast crew gives its final predictions and guesses for top performers against Atlanta, including:

• Will Joe Burrow throw for another 300 yards?
• What will Ja’Marr Chase do to A.J. Terrell in their rematch?
• How explosive will Cincinnati’s offense be?
• Just how much will Marcus Mariota be limited?

Plus, the crew gets into a spirited debate on what the best chili is around the Cincinnati area.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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The Bengals' offense is healthy, happy, strong and content, but not fully satisfied. Just as Cincinnati began showing explosive flashes in last weeks win at the Saints, that could continue very well into this weekend's home battle with the Atlanta Falcons.

The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down the essence of what has made Joe Burrow and the Bengals, as they analyze:

• How are the run-pass option (RPO) plays helping Cincinnati?
• Where is Joe Burrow finding his strides?
• Will Ja'Marr Chase torch A.J. Terrell again in their first rematch?
• Is the offensive line building that continuity they've been looking for?

Plus, the crew has some fun banter about how time builds chemistry beyond just an offensive line.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

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While the Falcons are a modest 3-3 just like Cincinnati, their rushing attack is anything but modest. Bringing the 3rd best rushing attack in to Queen City this weekend, Atlanta will try to take advantage of several key injuries on Cincinnati's front.

The Strictly Stripes Podcast explains just how the Bengals can claw back against the Dirty Birds, along with:

• Limiting the resurgence of Marcus Mariota under center.
• Containing running back Tyler Allegeier's recent bursts.
• Where the Bengals can help substitute for Logan Wilson in the middle

Plus, the crew breaks down how critical Sunday's game will be ahead of the bye.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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Already without star defensive tackle D.J. Reader, the Bengals could find themselves in a tougher spot without Josh Tupou and middle linebacker Loan Wilson after both players left Sunday's game against New Orleans with respective injuries.

The Strictly Stripes crew explains how high the panic meter should be for Cincinnati, along with:

• Who the best reinforcements are for Wilson and Tupou.
• How can the Bengals put a band-aid on the injuries before the second half of the season?
• Where can Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd take the offense as they hit their strides?
• Where can the Bengals utilize Sam Hubbard and Trey Hendrickson up front?

Plus, the crew explains more about what makes last Sunday's win over the Saints so significant before the bye week.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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Cincinnati didn't take the lead until its final drive of the game against the New Orleans Saints. But that drive puts the Bengals back in the driver's seat. Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase signified their homecoming to the Bayou with a go-ahead touchdown with just under 2:00 to go to put their Bengals back at the .500 mark as they win 30-26.

Have the Bengals finally solidified their offensive identity the way they want? Where can the Bengals' defense improve beyond being a second half team? The Strictly Stripes crew answers those questions and more on what this mentally means for the Bengals in this latest postgame podcast edition from New Orleans.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down its predictions on how just how well the Bengals will perform Sunday, along with more on:

• Concerns on Tee Higgins potentially sitting out Sunday.
• Why a healthy Jonah Williams makes a big difference.
• Prop bet predictions, including another strong game from Joe Mixon.
• What Ja'Marr Chase's role could look like in his homecoming.

Plus, the crew continues its lengthy banter on the best soul food in New Orleans and how to enjoy it.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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Will Vonn Bell, Trey Hendrickson and Eli Apple all show their former team what they lost out on when they later joined Cincinnati through free agency? Just how bittersweet will the reunion be in the Bayou?

Those aren't the only big family affairs on either side this Sunday. The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down how significant the Saints-turned Bengals trio will be against the Saints, along with:

• What will be the plan for Andy Dalton or Jameis Winston? Who is more dangerous under center?
• How can the Bengals defense be prepared against the injury-laden Saints?
• Where should Lou Anarumo make sure his defense stops last-minute drives?
• Who's a bigger problem to cover: Taysom Hill or Alvin Kamara?
• 
  

Plus, the crew explains what makes ping pong so different in an NFL locker room and why.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfields by Hallman

Music Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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The Strictly Stripes crew of Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek weigh the reasons for concern and confidence, on top of an honest criticism of where the blame lies between Joe Burrow and Zac Taylor for the Bengals' offensive woes this season.

Music Credit: Starfields by Hallman

Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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In this edition of the Strictly Stripes podcast, the crew grades and analyzes the Bengals' offensive play calling leading into Sunday night's loss to Baltimore. They also assess what the team needs to do to adjust and match the ever-changing defenses in the league this season.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music Credit: Starfields by Hallman

Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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On top of debating the questionable play calling, we also discuss the Bengals' chances of staying ahead in the AFC North as the Ravens now take first place. With that, we also explain what went right for the Bengals defense, and what the offense needs to do to play complimentary football.

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music Credit: Starfields by Hallman.

Link: Hallman - Starfields | Epidemic Sound

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What makes Lamar Jackson tough and how to stop him.

Is Joe Mixon declining or just getting started?

How Ja'Marr Chase can relive his performance against the Ravens in Week 7 last season.

Is Joe Burrow already a Walter Payton Man of the Year award front runner?

Plus, the Strictly Stripes crew finally introduces itself!

This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek.

Music: Starfield by Hallman

Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices