The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a tough test heading into 2016 following a 12-4 2015 season. Losing offensive coordinator Hue Jackson could prove to be a huge loss and could cause Andy Dalton to regress. Nevertheless the Bengals host one of the most talented rosters in the NFL and figure to be contenders again this season.
3 Position Battle To Watch:
Quarterback: Andy Dalton vs. A.J. McCarron
Ok this probably isn’t a battle but this conversation is very interesting to say the least. If it weren’t for a Jeremy Hill fumble and dumb late penalties A.J. McCarron would have secured the Bengals first playoff win since 1990. Maybe Cincy would have even won the next week against Denver. McCarron proved he is a capable quarterback and will be interesting to see how he fares this preseason.
Runningback: Giovani Bernard vs. Jeremy Hill
Again this isn’t necessarily a battle but it has large implications in terms of fantasy perspective. How the Bengals plan on splitting the carries should have fans eager to see regardless.
Right Tackle: Jake Fisher vs. Eric Winston vs. Cedric Ogbuehi
The Bengals offensive line is a very good unit but the starting right tackle spot is up for grabs. Regardless the Bengals are well positioned for potential injures as all three tackles are viable starting options.
Ready For A Breakout Season: Dre Kirkpatrick
With a roster as talented as this one it’s hard to really pick a breakout star. As for Kirkpatrick after some struggles early in his career he has really stepped up as the teams number one corner. Kirkpatrick logged 16 pass deflections in 2015 and is primed to have an even better year this season.
Fantasy Sleeper: Tyler Boyd
The Bengals are loaded with offensive weapons but Boyd is the best chance at becoming a solid sleeper pick. Boyd is a rookie 2nd round pick from Pitt who looks like a future Keenan Allen in the pros. With Tyler Eifert projected to miss an early portion of the season, Boyd looks to be an important piece.
Rookie To Watch: William Jackson
Jackson adds to an already deep cornerback group who figures to lock down the slot in year one. Cincy probably reached for Jackson in the draft but he could be an important piece for this secondary.
The Bengals are a good football team but they are still irrelevant as long as this playoff winless drought lasts. The Andy Dalton – Marvin Lewis duo probably doesn’t change things.
