For some analysts, it’s panic time over the Cincinnati Bengals.
And rightfully so given the 0-2 start and what that historically means for teams. Perhaps more importantly, Joe Burrow is on pace for 100-plus sacks.
Over at GMFB, Kyle Brandt pointed out that while the Bengals had tough matchups to start the season, that’s no excuse for the issues plaguing the offense:
“I get it. You played T.J. Watt and Micah Parsons, tough way to start the season. You’re AFC champs. This is the pros. There’s going to be a lot of good pass-rushers…I don’t know what you do. You don’t just add another tackle. It’s a real problem and if they have to be the dink-dunk team, it’s not going to change.
Spot on, too. While Pittsburgh and Dallas have two of the league’s best pass-rushes, every team has at least one star pass-rusher this day. Much more concerning is the apparent lack of preparedness, innovation and execution, from the coaching staff right on down to individual players.
Also accurate is the idea the Bengals aren’t going to win a ton of games by throwing short little passes and running the ball. That’s just not their identity and not how they won last year.
For what it’s worth, Ja’Marr Chase sure seems to agree based on recent comments, even if coaches aren’t concerned about Burrow.
Joe Burrow has already been sacked 13 times 😳
What's your level of concern for the 0-2 Bengals? pic.twitter.com/V4fRJxnB67
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) September 19, 2022