http://www.sportsnipe.com Cincinnati Bengals, Team News, Updates, and Stats from all sports sources, updated continually. http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1047239/benson-to-be-gametime-decision.html The fifth-year running back, who is officially listed as doubtful on the injury report, has not practiced all week and was in sweatpants and a hoody during today's practice. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1046458/bengals-struggle-in-california-benson-quotdoubtfulquot-to-play-against-oakland.html Californeya has the internet gold rush. So the Bengals have broken several trends this year. They've swept the Steelers for the first time since 1998. Dating back to last year, they've won five straight road games for the first time in franchise history. With a win over the Cleveland Browns, the Bengals will go undefeated in the division for the first time in franchise history -- they've won five divisional games in only six seasons (2009, 2005, 1996, 1990, 1989, 1984). Another trend remains. Games on the West Coast. Specifically, in California. The Bengals have lost 26 of 35 regular season games in California. Dating back to 1992, they've won only one of ten games. The Bengals history in California is terrible enough that if you take the Bengals all-time record and remove regular season games played in California, the Bengals all-time winning percentage jumps ten points. (Note: I'm a South Park junkie). Larry Johnson could play Sunday. C Trent Rosecrans writes that Larry Johnson "said his first practice as a Bengal on Wednesday went smoothly, and he's just happy to be practicing." This is important because it's believed that Cedric Benson will miss Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders. Joe Reedy writes that "Benson did not practice for a second straight day, meaning that it is unlikely he will play on Sunday at Oakland." To be honest, I'm interested to see what Johnson can do behind this offensive line. Moving on... Great piece by Hobson, detailing the defense on third down. Charles Robinson writes that Larry Johnson created enough of a disruption with the Chiefs, that he forced his way off the team and joined the 7-2 Bengals. Don Banks lists Mike Zimmer as a potential head coaching candidate. The job Zimmer has done with the Bengals defense this season speaks for itself, and if Cincy rides its magic carpet all the way to Miami, who knows how far it might advance a Zimmer candidacy? Strange as it sounds, Zimmer's time in front of the HBO cameras on "Hard Knocks'' probably raised his visibility level significantly within league circles, even though he was known as a quality teacher of the game long before last summer. Against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bernard Scott rushed the football 13 times. Geoff Hobson writes that the Bengals don't want to give Scott "that many touches any time soon." Sad news: Chris Spielman's wife Stephanie passed away Thursday night. How great has Kyle Cook been this year? CNati's Scott Priestle takes a look at Dhani Jones. Notes regarding the Bengals games in California. All-Time Record 279 356 2 .440 Games in California 9 26 0 .257 All-Time Record w/o California 270 330 2 .450 Games played in California since 1968. Season Location Result 2007 San Francisco L, 13-20 2003 Oakland L, 20-23 2003 San Diego W, 34-27 2001 San Diego L, 14-28 1998 Oakland L, 10-27 1996 San Francisco L, 21-28 1996 San Diego L, 14-27 1994 San Diego L, 10-27 1993 San Francisco L, 8-21 1992 San Diego L, 10-27 1990* Los Angeles L, 10-20 1990 San Diego W, 21-16 1990 Los Angeles (Rams) W, 34-31 1990 Los Angeles L, 7-24 1989 Los Angeles L, 7-28 1988 Los Angeles W, 45-21 1985 Los Angeles L, 6-13 1984 San Francisco L, 17-23 1982 San Diego L, 34-50 1981 San Diego W, 40-17 1980 Oakland L, 17-28 1978 Los Angeles (Rams) W, 20-19 1978 San Francisco L, 12-28 1978 San Diego L, 13-22 1977 San Diego L, 3-24 1976 Oakland L, 20-35 1975* Oakland L, 28-31 1974 San Francisco W, 21-3 1974 Oakland L, 27-30 1973 San Diego W, 20-13 1972 Los Angeles (Rams) L, 12-15 1971 Oakland L, 27-31 1970 San Diego W, 17-14 1969 San Diego L, 14-21 1969 Oakland L, 17-37 1968 Oakland L, 10-31 1968 San Diego L, 13-29 * Playoff game. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1046456/benson-expected-to-play-vs-raiders.html It is looking very unlikely that Cincinnati Bengals running back Cedric Benson will suit up Sunday against the Oakland Raiders after missing practice again due to a hip injury. Assuming that is the case, recently signed RB Larry Johnson should see an increased workload. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1046440/bengals-chat-at-1230-pm.html Enquirer Bengals beat writer Joe Reedy will be on board at 12:30 p.m. today to take any questions or comments you have about the team, which travels to Oakland this Sunday to face the Raiders. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1042144/oakland-high-on-highlands-grad.html Oakland special teams player Mike Mitchell, the former Highlands High School standout, has one eye on the Bluebirds' bid for another state title as he prepares for the Bengals arrival this weekend. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1041334/mistakes-haunt-raiders.html It hasn't been a good year for the 2-7 Raiders, who are hoping to do to the high-flying Bengals what the Raiders did to high-flying Eagles in Oakland four weeks ago in a 14-9 upset win. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1041333/benson-unlikely-to-play.html Running back Cedric Benson did not practice for a second straight day and is unlikely to play Sunday. That means Larry Johnson's timetable to be comfortable with the playbook is accelerated. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1041332/roethlisberger-takes-blame-for-bengals-loss-says-steelers-must-move-on-canadian-press.html PITTSBURGH - He didn't blame the wide receivers for running incorrect pass routes, even if one of them seemed to be singling him out. He didn't blame the special teams for allowing a third costly kickoff return touchdown in four games. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1040756/two-good-rbs-better-than-one.html Still think newly-acquired, fresh-legged Larry Johnson is a fourth stringer? The newest Cincinnati Bengal should play, and play a lot, against the Raiders on Sunday, writes Chick Ludwig. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1039152/larry-johnson-signing-could-indirectly-challenge-cedric-benson-causing-postapocalyptic-scenario.html More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP 24 days ago: Cincinnati Bengals running back Cedric Benson (32) is tackled by Chicago Bears safety Al Afalava (24) in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2009, in Cincinnati. Benson ran for a career high 189 yards in the game won by Cincinnati 45-10. (AP Photo/Ed Reinke) Browse more photos » The biggest question I had with the Larry Johnson signing was team chemistry and lockerroom cohesiveness. Some will disregard the whole idea that chemistry and cohesiveness are critical components for success on the field. But that's fine. My knowledge about NFL lockerrooms is admittedly limited. Others who claim it's overrated probably have sat on one of the wooden stools in front of a locker, watching players interact with each other, jotting notes for their conducted experiments with white lab coats, bunsen burners and beakers. I can't compete with that. So I elect not to try. However, since the over-rated aspect of chemistry and cohesiveness translating to better success on the field hasn't actually presented substance, I'll continue with my belief. A happy lockerroom is good. A tension filled lockerroom is bad. Kind of like work. You have those people. Idiots. Nincompoops. Those annoying jerks that make you drink in so much excess that you mutter things like, "I... (sigh).. gtttn... tiii (sigh)... of... yoour (sigh)... crap" and steal your women. At least so I've heard. But the speculation will take form. The worry? How does Cedric Benson react to the move? Admittedly, even if he hates the move, some measure of professionalism must be observed here. There's no reason to believe this move is personal, and I don't believe he thinks of it that way. Though, speculation comes in many forms. Ranging from taking quotes at face value, to interpretation quotes on the best possible angle. The quote from Benson: “Oh, I didn’t know I was supposed to be jumping out of my seat or anything.  I really have no feelings about it,” Benson said after Wednesday morning’s walkthrough. “They made a move they felt they needed to do, and that’s fine with me. It’s not going to affect me in any kind of way. Whatever happens from here on, I can guarantee you I’ll definitely be making the best of it.  “The offensive playbook here can be tricky, so it takes a little bit to get adjusted. But Larry’s all right,” Benson said. “He’s a professional and a great player at that. I’m sure whatever adjustments he has to make, or if he gets a chance to play, I’m sure he’ll make the best of it.” Personally, I took the quote at face value. I had no reason to suspect otherwise and that's why we didn't mention it on Wednesday. Then again, I'm not there. Maybe while he was talking, Benson was flinging boogers at him with his back turned. "Hey, since when did put yellow polka dots on our practice jerseys? Awesome!" Chad says in passing. Paul Daugherty question it on The Morning Line Thursday morning. "Ced Benson was not pleased with the LJ move. It wasnt just what he said yesterday, but how he said it. Even as M. Lewis has said repeatedly that #32 is the guy, you could tell Benson was more than a little hissed." Definitely boogers. Cnati's Scott Priestle writes, "Cedric Benson did not bother to put on a happy face Wednesday. He insisted he has no opinion about the Bengals signing former Pro Bowl running back Larry Johnson, but his body language suggested frustration." The Associated Press' Joe Key writes, "After a light morning workout, Benson didn't have much to say about the Bengals' decision to sign Johnson. Told that he didn't appear to be thrilled with the move, Benson smiled." Then again, you have to consider that even if Benson isn't happy, or as he subtly put it, "didn't know I was supposed to be jumping out of my seat," that you love the kid for his ambition. Now it feels like it he might be challenged with Johnson. Running back controversy? I doubt it. But based on people's competitive nature, the idea that Johnson is sitting patiently behind Benson does challenge him. Now he's even more motivated. Now, with a weak three game stretch, you know Benson is going to kick some ass and not bother taking names because he's going to beat the crap out of the letters that compose the names too. Don't agree? "Most of the time, you hold your fate in your own hands," Benson said. "I'm not letting up in any aspect of what I do. I expect to continue to be the No. 1 guy, and if not, I'll make it that way." At this point, you can only grin like giddy fans grin. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1039151/mystery-ndcq.html And what, exactly, do the letters N.D.C.Q stand for? Those letters were written on shirts given to the Bengals after they beat the Steelers Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1038318/oakland-will-start-bruce-gradkowski-at-quarterback-against-bengals-yes-that-same-in-2006.html More photos » by John Froschauer - AP 2 months ago: Seattle Seahawks linebacker Aaron Curry hits Oakland Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski (5) during the second quarter Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009, in an NFL preseason football game in Seattle. The Seahawks won 31-24. (AP Photo/John Froschauer) Browse more photos » The date was October 15, 2006. The weather was a warm 77 degrees at kickoff, with light winds. The game featured the 3-1 Cincinnati Bengals and the 0-4 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Buccaneers quarterback, Bruce Gradkowski, was making his second NFL start. With Cincinnati leading 13-7 and 4:21 left in the game, the Gradkowski led Buccaneers offense takes the field. After converting a first down, Tampa Bay lined up at the Bengals 32-yard line. What happened next is bound to be etched in the memory of many Bengals fans. Since I got the way-back machine out yesterday for our Chris Henry piece, I figure, why not reference an old entry during Cincy Jungle's first year in existence. But the bigger controversy was Justin Smith's roughing the passer. Smith wrapped up Bruce Gradkowski, who lowered his head, hitting the ground with the top of his helmet. Gradkowski lost the ball and I put my arms up thinking this game was over. But since Smith tried to tackle the quarterback - which is illegal - the Bengals were penalized 15 yards; Tampa Bay scored the winning touchdown a few plays later. I understand the idea of protecting helpless children, women and quarterbacks. Let's be honest though, hard knocks are what injures quarterbacks; not being rolled onto your head or the extension of arms. A cornerback, safety or linebacker, with a full head of steam, will devastate a Quarterback's body (Google the Ohio State Buckeyes and Drew Stanton... or Chris Simms). It took until this off-season to make a rule that defensive players couldn't shred the knee of a quarterback. Smith's sack was minimal in scope to the health of the quarterback but monumental in scope to the game. The penalty not only pushed the Buccaneers to the Cincinnati 25-yard line, but Cincinnati lost a fumble recovery which would have likely sealed the game. The Bengals couldn't stop the offense after that, even though Tampa Bay was forced to make a third-and-13 conversion -- which they did on fourth down when Gradkowski completed an eight-yard touchdown pass to Mark Clayton. Game over. Peter King wrote at the time, "... HORRENDOUS roughing-the-passer call in Tampa, giving the Bucs good field position as they drive, with a Toledo Rocket at quarterback, Bruce Gradkowski, to try to beat the hanging-on-for-dear-life Bengals at the Pirate Ship." And Justin Smith said at the time, "That was the ballgame," Smith said. "There was no whistle call, nothing like that to stop the play. I didn't slam him (or) pick him up. He doubled over, went down and fumbled the ball." Why bring all of this up, you ask? For one, I can. For two, the Bengals will be seeing Gradkowski again this weekend in Oakland. The Oakland Raiders benched former No. 1 overall pick JaMarcus Russell on Wednesday, handing the starting job to journeyman Bruce Gradkowski for the foreseeable future. Coach Tom Cable made the announcement of the change following practice as the Raiders (2-7) prepare to play the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Cable said this was not a temporary move, that his plan is to stick with Gradkowski. "I don't want to be like that," he said. "This is where we're headed and what we're going to do. He'll take this team and go with it." If the Bengals bring their best game to Oakland, I don't see this as remotely being a problem. Cincinnati, I believe, is fielding the best overall team this year compared to the entire Marvin Lewis era. And the players are well aware of the implications of playing a 2-7 team. However, sometimes the football gods mix it up a little. And they did that weekend in 2006. When the 3-1 Cincinnati Bengals lost to the 0-4 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1038316/former-coach-backs-bengals-signing.html Count Herm Edwards among the majority of people who think that Larry Johnson's arrival in Cincinnati can be a good thing for both parties. "He's a guy who is very talented but you have to keep him focused," said Edwards. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1037481/practice-report-cincinnati-bengals-72-at-oakland-raiders-27.html Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evening, we'll (TRY TO) update the practice/injury chart leading up to Sunday's game. The chart is pretty self-explanatory. If the player is listed as out, they're out for the game. If they did not participate, they didn't practice. If they were limited, then they only participated during a portion of practice (typically means missing 11-on-11 drills). If the player is listed as full participation, it simply means that they practiced fully and that the only reason they're listed is because injury was an issue the week before. Practice BENGALS WED THUR FRI RB Cedric Benson (hip) DNP     S Chris Crocker (calf) DNP     G Evan Mathis (ankle) DNP     LB Keith Rivers (calf) DNP     CB Johnathan Joseph (foot) LP     RB Jeremi Johnson (chest) FP                     OAKLAND WED THUR FRI         Oakland's practice hadn't ended by the time the injury report was released. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1037480/grades-are-in-from-bengals-win.html There were many special reasons why the Bengals were able to beat the Steelers for a second time this season. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1036098/playing-time-looks-likely-for-johnson.html CINCINNATI -- The Bengals continue to stress that everything is operating smoothly, but it is looking more as if running back Larry Johnson could be in the lineup Sunday at Oakland. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1033206/cedric-benson-has-guarded-reaction-to-bengals-signing-rb-larry-johnson-canadian-press.html CINCINNATI, Ohio - Another troubled player trying to revive his career? Nothing new for the Cincinnati Bengals. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1032248/chris-henry-would-quotprefer-to-return-bengalsquot-look-at-how-one-year-change-everything.html More photos » by Charles Krupa - AP 2 months ago: Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry (15) hauls in a touchdown against New England Patriots cornerback Terrence Wheatley, left, during a preseason NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) Browse more photos » To give you an idea of Chris Henry before the 2008 regular season, one could watch a few seasons of The Wire (one of the better shows I've seen in ages). Suddenly, something nailed him like a well placed punch of reality, which spoke to him: you have talent, you have opportunity, you have everything if you want it. Take it. It's yours. Henry listened this time. And after his latest trouble turned out to be nothing more than wasted time on a dropped lawsuit, the Bengals signed Henry to a two-year deal. Bengals fans were far more than skeptical. We were enraged in our classic, what the hell, moments. In fact, let's go back in time, shall we? April 3, 2008. Henry released. Cincy Jungle headline reads: "Bengals release Chris Henry -- adios, idiot". Perhaps we were a little over-enthusiastic. But if anything described fans feelings regarding Henry at the time, that's close enough. July 17, 2008. Henry's agent at the time said several teams were interested in Henry, including Cincinnati. We wrote: There's no question about his talent. And though I'm not as weighted on the character bandwagon like many others, I do see the point that Henry's conduct has forced his limitation on the field -- i.e., suspensions. In a sense, you can't trust the guy. You can't trust him to remain clean with the constant threat of suspensions hovering over the team's head. That's simple dependability. August 7, 2008. It was learned that Henry was seen at Bengals camp during last year's training camp. I wrote, "based on 3rd-grade logic, I just don't see it and most scenarios that invite his return, are too far-fetched." Nailed that one, didn't I? August 13, 2008, I wrote "Chris Henry isn't coming back to Cincinnati. If he does, I'll leave this job." Hopefully no one noticed. August 19, 2008. Reports started surfacing that Henry was signing a contract with the Bengals. A few hours later, the signing became official. We wrote: For the most part, writers and responders from other sites are generally the same. They're optimistically cautious that Henry will help this team, but aren't sold that signing Henry was the wisest of choices. First off, the publicity is something the team wants to avoid. Surely, people are questioning the Bengals decision. August 20, 2008. It was learned that Marvin Lewis had zero influence on whether the Bengals signed Henry or not. We wrote: I understand and applaud those that talk about the team's integrity and being forced to wonder if Henry will be arrested on any given night, before any given Sunday. The jokes will return, the confusion and head shaking grows with intensity. On the other hand, you can't argue Henry's physical talents. When he played, he's the most lethal and productive third wide receiver on any team right now. And if there's reasons why Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh can't go, the Bengals are lucky to have a talented guy like Henry step into the void and limit any production degradation. Henry missed the first four-games of 2008, serving out a four-game suspension handed down by Chancellor Roger Goodell. In the twenty games he played on the two-year contract, Henry caught 31 passes for 456 yards receiving and four touchdowns. Henry suffered a broken arm against the Baltimore Ravens. The progressive feeling of Chris Henry fascinates me. His talent is one thing. But going from what he was, to what he is now, is remarkable. He learned. He grew. Henry's scheduled to become a free agent after this season and could sign with any team. C Trent tweets: "Chris Henry says he'd prefer to return to Bengals". And damn it, I believe the Bengals should sign him. No, they better sign him. Man, how things can change in a year. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1032247/signing-johnson-test-for-bengals-chemistry.html Larry Johnson's entrance into the Cincinnati Bengals locker room will be a true test of just how far the Bengals have come from their bad boy days. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1032246/benson-guarded-in-reaction-to-johnson.html Most Cincinnati Bengals players are accepting the addition of troubled running back Larry Johnson as a move to improve the team. The player who could be most affected doesn't have much to say, and that's the most telling reaction of all. Starting running back Cedric Benson was guarded Wednesday when asked his thoughts about the Bengals signing the former Kansas City Chiefs star. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1031224/premature-look-at-playoff-scenarios-bengals-have-second-seed-in-afc.html More photos » by AJ Mast - AP 2 days ago: New England Patriots running back Kevin Faulk (33) is tackled by Indianapolis Colts cornerback Melvin Bullitt (33) on fourth down during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in Indianapolis, Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009. Indianapolis won 35-34. (AP Photo/AJ Mast) Browse more photos » With 2:08 left in the fourth quarter, with a 34-28 lead, the New England Patriots take a timeout Sunday night. They were discussing the upcoming punt situation with two yards to go on fourth down at the Patriots own 28-yard line. Everyone was sure of it. Tom Brady was there, talking about personnel and offering his input about a special teams play. Right? He is, after all, Tom freaking Brady. When Brady returned to the field, you flipped your wrist in a gesture to say "get the hell out", you're just trying to draw the defense offsides. Why do teams do that? When the situation is clearly obvious that the quarterback is trying to... Wait. Dan Koppen just snapped it. Wait. Tom Brady caught the snap in shotgun. Wait. Tom Brady is surveying the field. Wait. He threw the pass to Kevin Faulk. Wait. The official marked it short of a first down. Wait. Indianapolis' ball. What. The. Hell. Just. Happened. Did New England just go for it? The lonely echoes of an electronic guitar playing a sad ballard, like in a bar off an Arizona highway, emanate on the Patriots' sidelines. In the following minute and 44 seconds, Peyton Manning led the offense on a four-play, 29-yard touchdown drive to win the game with 16 seconds remaining. This, by far, led to one of the biggest sessions of Monday Morning Quarterbacking in recent memory. And it's deserved. But the Patriots' justification, who haven't shied away from making similar choices in the past, makes sense. Before the game winning touchdown, Manning led two touchdown drives, both with a time of possession under 2:04, forcing Bill Belichick to conclude that Manning will score from anywhere; a conclusion that every person that's paid by the NFL and all of their teams have reached. If the Patriots had picked up the first down, the game is over. From a Bengals fan perspective, that missed fourth down conversation gave the Bengals sole possession of the second seed in the AFC. Granted, it doesn't mean much with seven games remaining. But they are in sole possession of the second seed. Let that digest for a moment. Go ahead, lean back in your chair, interlock your fingers behind your head and grin like only maddening fans of a team with decades of futility can grin. If the playoffs were to start today -- yes, yes, I know they don't -- the Bengals would have a bye week and host at least one home game. In the meantime, the Bengals are still a trap game away from losing everything they've earned so far. Let's take a look at the Bengals and Steelers remaining schedule. Side-by-side comparison of the Bengals and Steelers remaining schedule Date Opponent   Date Opponent Nov 22 @ Oakland   Nov 22 @ Kansas City Nov 29 Cleveland   Nov 29 @ Baltimore (SNF) Dec 6 Detroit   Dec 6 Oakland Dec 13 @ Minnesota   Dec 10 @ Cleveland (TNF) Dec 20 @ San Diego   Dec 20 Green Bay Dec 27 Kansas City   Dec 27 Baltimore Jan 3 @ NY Jets   Jan 3 @ Miami NOTES: If the season were to end today. The Steelers and Chargers would be the wild card and the Patriots would host the Steelers during the first weekend. If the Broncos beat the Chargers and the Steelers beat the Patriots, Cincinnati would host the Steelers in the playoffs... again. If the Broncos and Patriots win opening playoff weekend, the Bengals would host the Broncos... again. The Bengals could find themselves in trouble if the Denver Broncos lose the AFC West to the San Diego Chargers and say another team, like the Houston Texans made a run for the playoffs. The Bengals would lose the tie-breaker to the Broncos and Texans because Cincinnati lost the head-to-head meeting to both teams. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1031223/bernard-scott-named-afc-special-teams-player-week.html More photos » by Keith Srakocic - AP 3 days ago: Cincinnati Bengals' Bernard Scott, left, returns a kickoff for a touchdown past Pittsburgh Steelers' Keyaron Fox in the first quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic) Browse more photos » As if we didn't document Bernard Scott's weekend enough already, we've decided to pile on the mountain of awesomeness that is Bernard Scott. Every Wednesday, the NFL announces players of the week for offense, defense and special teams for the AFC and NFC. Carson Palmer won the award during his five touchdown day (aka, holy-freaking awesome day) against the Bears during week seven and Antwan Odom won it in week two after recording an impressive five sacks against the Green Bay Packers. Add Bernard Scott to the list. The NFL announced Wednesday that Scott won the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week after recording a 96-yard touchdown return against the Pittsburgh Steelers and 206 yards on kickoff return. Scott is the first Bengals player named the Special Teams Player of the Week since Tab Perry in week 13 during the 2005 season, ironically enough against the Pittsburgh Steelers, recording 197 yards on five kickoff returns, including a 94-yarder that setup Rudi Johnson's one-yard touchdown run giving the Bengals the lead (31-24) with 7:57 left in the third quarter (run-on sentences for the win!). Scott is also the first Bengals player to record a touchdown on kickoff return since Glenn Holt on November 4, 2007. Here's the award winnings for week 10. AFC Offensive Player of the Week: QB Peyton Manning, Colts AFC Defensive Player of the Week: Safety Mike Brown, Chiefs AFC Special Teams Player of the Week: RB Bernard Scott, Bengals NFC Offensive Player of the Week: WR Sidney Rice, Vikings NFC Defensive Player of the Week: CB Charles Woodson, Packers NFC Special Teams Player of the Week: P Hunter Smith, Redskins Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1030247/primer-cincinnati-bengals-72-at-oakland-raiders-27.html by Paul Sakuma - AP 2 days ago: Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell (2) passes against the Kansas City Chiefs in the first quarter during an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma) View full size photo » Game: Cincinnati Bengals (7-2) at Oakland Raiders (2-7) Series Leader: Raiders, 17-8 Streak: Raiders have won three of the past four Coaches vs. Opponent: Lewis: 1-1. Cable: 0-0 Broadcast: CBS (4:15 PM ET): Kevin Harlan, Solomon Wilcots.  SIRIUS: 127 (Cin.), 130 (Oak.).  XM: 104 (Cin.). SB Nation: Silver and Black Pride NFL.com: Game Center Weather: Partly cloudy with a high 59 and light winds. [Weather.com] Uniform: White Television Coverage: Most of Ohio, West Virginia, northern Kentucky and areas around Oakland and into Nevada. [506] Cincinnati Bengals The Bengals are 4-0 on the road in 2009 and looks to win the fifth consecutive road game for the first time in franchise history. Under Marvin Lewis, when a running back rushes 25 times or more, the Bengals are 26-1. Carson Palmer needs four touchdown passes to reach 125 in his career -- third Bengals player in franchise history to achieve that milestone. In his past three games, Palmer has thrown for six touchdowns and no interceptions. Cedric Benson needs 141 yards rushing for his first 1,000-yard season. When rushing 20 times or more in a game, Benson averages 106.2 yards rushing in those games -- teams are 11-1-1. Frostee Rucker recorded his first career interception last week. Jonathan Fanene has a career-high five quarterback sacks in 2009; including a career-best two last week. Johnathan Joseph and Leon Hall have combined for 25 passes defensed this season. Oakland Raiders The Raiders are 8-0 all-time against the Bengals in games played in Oakland since October 27, 1968. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell needs 137 yards passing to reach 4,000 yards in his career. Running back Michael Bush posted his first 100-yard rushing game last week and second of his career. Justin Fargas has a career 6.2 yards-per-rush average against the Bengals (15 attempts, 93 yards). Fargas looks to record a touchdown in his third straight game. Tight End Zach Miller ranks sixth in franchise history among Tight Ends with 129 receptions and 1,652 yards receiving. Defense has 10 sacks in the past four games. Since 2008, cornerback Chris Johnson leads the team with six interceptions and looks to record a pick in his third straight game. Defensive Ends Richard Seymour and Greg Ellis have a combined 124 career quarterback sacks. Rookie defensive end Matt Shaughnessy looks to record a sack in his third straight game. TEAM RANKINGS Offense Bengals Raiders Total 334.2 (19th) 222.0 (31st) Scoring 22.0 (17th) 9.8 (31st) Third Downs 41% (15th) 27% (29th) Rushing 122.3 (11th) 103.4 (20th) Rushing TDs 7 (t-15th) 5 (t-23rd) Passing 211.9 (19th) 118.6 (31st) Passing TDs 14 (t-12th) 2 (32nd) Sacks Allowed 14 (6th) 27 (t-26th) 20-yard Passes 24 (t-16th) 11 (t-31st)       Defense Bengals Raiders Total 314.4 (11th) 367.1 (24th) Scoring 16.3 (2nd) 24.1 (25th) 3rd Downs Allowed 34% (7th) 34% (5th) Rushing 83.4 (2nd) 155.6 (29th) Rushing TDs 4 (t-5th) 14 (t-31st) Passing 231.0 (21st) 211.6 (14th) Passing TDs 10 (t-10th) 8 (t-4th) Sacks 25 (t-4th) 19 (t-17th) QB Rating 77.9 (9th) 83.1 (16th) 20-Yard Passes Allowed 28 (t-21st) 28 (t-21st) Interceptions 11 (t-6th) 6 (t-26th)       Special Teams Bengals Raiders Kickoff Return 22.5 (19th) 18.7 (32nd) Punt Return 11.7 (5th) 2.6 (32nd) Punting (Net) 37.3 (t-20th) 44.8 (1st) Punts Inside the 20 14 (t-18th) 19 (t-5th) 2009 STATISTICAL INDIVIDUAL RANKINGS Carson Palmer Stat Ranking Quarterback Rating 88.1 15th Yards Passing 2,010 16th Touchdowns 14 t-10th First Downs 103 14th Average Yards/Att 6.9 18th Completions 178 t-14th Interceptions 7 t-14th Times Sacked 14 10th       Cedric Benson Stat Ranking Yards Rushing 859 6th Attempts / Game 22.8 1st Touchdowns 6 t-8th First Downs 36 t-6th       Chad Ochocinco Stat Ranking Receptions 46 t-17th Yards Receiving 668 t-11th Touchdowns 5 t-12th 20-yard receptions 10 t-7th First Downs 35 t-8th CAREER AGAINST THE OAKLAND RAIDERS Carson Palmer Date Result Comp Att Yards TDs INTs 12.10.2006 W, 27-10 20 28 297 2 3 Chad Johnson Date Rec Yards TDs 12.10.2006 5 101 0 9.14.2003 8 131 0 Laveranues Coles Date Rec Yards TDs 10.19.2008 4 51 0 12.31.2006 2 24 0 12.11.2005 3 30 0 12.2.2002 10 158 0 1.6.2002 5 111 1 12.10.2000 1 16 0 Cedric Benson Date Rush Yards TDs 11.11.2007 28 72 1 Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1030246/bengals-worked-out-joey-galloway-ed-johnson-mike-doss-tuesday.html While the signing of Larry Johnson, and to smaller degree the release of Ben Utecht, were Tuesday's primary headlines, the Bengals weren't through, just yet. On Tuesday, the Bengals worked out three other players; wide receiver Joey Galloway, safety Mike Doss and defensive lineman Ed Johnson. He was released by the Indianapolis in October because he lacked production. In Joey Galloway's case, he just never caught on with the Patriots. Mike Doss, who played for Cincinnati at the end of last year, was released with Chris Perry, Eric Henderson, Nate Lawrie and Gary Russell in April. The Bengals invited Galloway, who could be used as a deep threat on a core of wide receivers that are more possession receivers. Unless, of course, you play Jerome Simpson, who has speed. It appears that Ed Johnson is more trouble than he's worth. Johnson was arrested in September of 2008 when Indiana police pulled Johnson over for speeding and found he was in possession of marijuana. Along with lacking production, there's no benefit signing Johnson at this point. Doss was awesome in college. Since then, injuries have really slowed him down and he's, at best, a special teams contributor. In the end, I'll be surprised if the Bengals offer anyone that visited a contract. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1028371/bengals-gamble-again.html CINCINNATI -- Larry Johnson is looking to change many perceptions about him as a football player and a person. He will get to do so with the Bengals, an organization that prides itself on giving second chances. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1027234/steelers-polamalu-shouldnt-miss-much-time.html Troy Polamalu is unlikely to play Sunday in Kansas City but the strong safety is not expected to be sidelined for a significant period of time after re-injuring his left knee in the Steelers' 18-12 loss to the Bengals. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1026860/meet-new-boss.html There is a luxury suite on the top floor that overlooks the AFC North. It’s shiny and comfortable and smells like the Playoffs. After milling about their new digs for a while, the Bengals put their feet up on the glass table, lean back and smile to themselves. This is [...] Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1026859/bengals-recent-success-too-late-for-some-fans.html I've never rooted for the Cincinnati Bengals (I don't ROOT against them; just never became a fan) so I'm not jumping on their bandwagon. But I'm more than happy to run alongside cheering it on. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1026297/ability-prevails-over-accountability.html Outside of having his reputation tarnished, being benched and released, there have been no devastating consequences for Larry Johnson. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1026296/bengals-release-te-utecht-wr-chatman.html The Bengals have released tight end Ben Utecht and receiver Antonio Chatman, both of whom were out for the season with injuries. Utecht suffered a major concussion during training camp at Georgetown College and was taken off the field on a stretcher. He stayed overnight in a hospital for observation, and his symptoms were slow to diminish. He was placed on the injured reserve list on Aug. 31. Chatman suffered a severe ankle injury during practice and went on injured reserve on Sept. 5. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1026295/3-out-bengalsraiders.html Joe Reedy has three interesting angles to watch for during Sunday's game in Oakland. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1025508/bengals-release-ben-utecht-antonio-chatman-from-injured-reserve-sign-brannon-condren-to-practice-squad.html More photos » by Al Behrman - AP 7 months ago: -- FILE -- In this July 28, 2008 file photo, Cincinnati Bengals tight end Ben Utecht takes a break during practice at training camp, in Georgetown, Ky. Utecht will release his first album on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 under the Stylos Records label. The 12-song album titled "Ben Utecht" is the first for the professional football player, who wrote songs about his faith.(AP Photo/Al Behrman) Browse more photos » In a somewhat of a surprising move in that category of moves that shouldn't surprise anyone, the Cincinnati Bengals announced that they released Antonio Chatman and Ben Utecht Tuesday afternoon. Both players were released from the reserve/injury list, which means they wouldn't affect the current 53-man roster. Utecht was scheduled to earn $2.25 million in 2009 and $2.5 million in 2010. Chatman was scheduled to earn $620,000 this year only. Utecht's release is a bit surprising considering the tight ends they have signed for 2010. Chase Coffman. Clark Harris. And Harris is hardly a tight end, now taking on the role as the team's long snapper. Makes you wonder what they'll plan for next year. Will Coffman be the leading tight end? Will they re-sign Utecht to a cheaper one-year deal? Will Reggie Kelly make his return with Cincinnati? What about J.P. Foschi, who I could argue has been a decent tight end on the rushing offense. In other news of player transactions, the Bengals signed safety Brannon Condren to the team's practice squad on Tuesday. Since I have no idea who this guy is, I'll cite the Bengals.com piece. Condren (6-1, 205; Troy) is a third-year NFL player. He opened 2009 with Indianapolis, but was waived on July 29. A fourth-round draft choice of Indianapolis in 2007, he played in eight games for the Colts that season, with two tackles, a pass defensed and four special teams tackles. He was waived by the Colts on Aug. 30, 2008. Later in ’08, he was inactive for four games with St. Louis and played in four games for Miami, with three special teams tackles.  Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1025507/larry-johnson-might-play-on-sunday-if-cedric-benson-out.html More photos » by David Kohl - AP about 3 hours ago: Newly acquired Cincinnati Bengals running back Larry Johnson, right, sits next to head coach Marvin Lewis, left, as he speaks during a news conference at Paul Brown Stadium, Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009 in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/David Kohl) Browse more photos » Larry Johnson is the fourth running back. Larry Johnson is an insurance policy. Larry Johnson won't play on Sunday as long as the other three running backs are healthy. These were the talking points from head coach Marvin Lewis, who carefully walked a minefield after reports surfaced that the Bengals were signing a player with potentially incendiary qualities. Signing Johnson wasn't a popular move with Bengals fans. Players are optimistically cautious -- some completely defer to Cedric Benson, which is a true sign of the respect players have of Benson in the lockerroom. Benson himself approves the moves, based on very good conditions. Help the team. However, on Tuesday, head coach Marvin Lewis said that Johnson could play on Sunday, writes Geoff Hobson. With former Chiefs running back Larry Johnson sitting next to him in a Paul Brown Stadium news conference Tuesday, head coach Marvin Lewis didn’t rule out using the newest Bengal this Sunday in Oakland if Cedric Benson can’t play. Ah, one of the conditions. Good. Good. What I really like out of all of this is the growing perception of Benson. In the 14 months, we went from wondering if he was what we're thinking of Larry Johnson now, to not only being one of the best players on the team, but respected and liked by all of the fans. And I really loved this: “Once the hip is ready, I’m gone,” he said. “I’m running all the way to Miami and the Super Bowl.” Benson is the man. Like him or not, Johnson is in Cincinnati. He is a Bengal. Like him or not, he's here. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1025506/bernard-scotts-beastly-return.html There's a little bit of contention going around CJ, thanks in large part to the Larry Johnson signing and the residual fallout.  With that in mind, I thought it might be prudent to lighten the mood around here by posting the video of Bernard Scott's awesome kick off return against the Pittsburgh Steelers.  As we all know, it was the game's only touchdown, and because it was so essential to the Bengals victory, it needs to be celebrated -- especially in light of the newest acquisition. The best part of Scott's return, besides him crossing the goal line, has to be Steelers kicker Jeff Reed's "attempt" to "tackle" Scott.  Granted, kickers aren't usually known as the best tackler, but that was just poor.  It would've been better if Reed simply escorted Scott to the end zone, for all the good his bullfighter approach to tackling did. One last thing, make sure to look for Quan Cosby knocking the stuffing out of Stefan Logan right before Scott goes into score.  It's around the 18 or 19 second mark. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1025505/special-concern-remains.html BY MATT PAWLIKOWSKI Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1024480/cedric-benson-has-secondmost-pro-bowl-votes-in-afc-gregg-doyel-colossally-fails.html More photos » by Nick Wass - AP about 1 month ago: Cincinnati Bengals running back Cedric Benson (32) is chased by Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed while scoring a touchdown during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) Browse more photos » In a release by the NFL on Tuesday, the Bengals' Cedric Benson has received 321,552 votes for the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl. That's the most by any running back in the AFC and second most among any player in the conference. The Pro Bowl consists of three votes; a consensus vote of the fans, the players and coaches. Each group counts for one-third of the total vote that determines each roster. The top vote getters are as follows: Player Position Votes Drew Brees QB 539,228 Peyton Manning QB 532,455 Adrian Peterson RB 529,319 Brett Favre QB 476,799 Larry Fitzgerald WR 328,451 Cedric Benson RB 321,552 Tom Brady QB 295,477 Ben Roethlisberger QB 291,466 Andre Johnson WR 279,395 Dallas Clark TE 274,400 No other Bengals player is leading in votes. The league made several changes this year to the Pro Bowl; it'll be played on the mainland in Miami a week before the Super Bowl (January 31, 2010). When a journalist elicits an opposite response of the one they had aimed for, does that mean he succeeded or failed? Sunday night, after the Bengals beat the Steelers (sorry, I just can't stop saying that!), CBS' Gregg Doyel, wrote that Cincinnati's chances of winning is based on whether or not Chad Ochocinco can keep it "buttoned up". But the Bengals can't be called a playoff lock yet, because they still have to traverse the mental minefield that is Chad Ochocinco. I tried to traverse it after the game Sunday, and it didn't go so well. After reminding us of Chad's history before the 2009 season, including wrongfully dating Chad's "trade demands" in 2007 rather than 2008, Doyel continues during a one-on-one interview. "I never have a big impact in games when we're up against these guys," he said. "They throw the whole house on me. But it's not always going to be about me. It was a team win today." He went on, and was complimentary about the Pittsburgh defense, but I asked one more question, and that's where it went south. And don't look at me like that. I knew what I was going to write after this game -- read my first sentence again; I wrote it right after the game ended, before I went to the locker room for interviews -- and I wanted Ochocinco's thoughts on the topic. Me: "As the season goes along -- you guys are 7-2, first place in the division -- are you going to be OK if it stays 'not about you'?" Him: "Sure I am -- wait. What? Why are you so interested in talking about me?" Me: "Because you're so interested in talking about you. And that interests me." Him: "You need to get out of here." Jake wrote on Monday that "Doyel was just upset that Chad told him to get lost." I think it's more than that. I think Doyel had every intention of writing a negatively-spun article about Chad no matter what Chad said or did. Doyel asks Chad about Chad, and Chad, upset that it turned to just him, leaves. The irony of all ironies, I say. Then you ask yourself, what did Doyel really bring us here? Does he bring us insight into the game he's covering? Does he bring us a unique perspective about what he saw? No, he couldn't keep Chad seated for the interview. What did you learn about Chad? WDR simply called this a glamour piece for Doyel, who wanted everyone to pay attention to him. In other words, a glamour-whore. In truth, Doyel's article did bring me insight. I'm starting to actually believe that Chad is a bigger team player than what we believed. How's that for irony? Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1024479/steven-hauschka-bal-ravens-waive-kicker.html Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1024478/bengals-cut-chatman-utecht.html Following the Larry Johnson press conference, the Bengals made a couple of roster moves. They released WR Antonio Chatman and TE Ben Utecht and added S Brannon Condren to the practice squad. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1023402/bernard-scott-nominated-for-pepsi-nfl-rookie-week.html More photos » by Keith Srakocic - AP 2 days ago: Cincinnati Bengals' Bernard Scott, right, returns a kickoff for a touchdown past Pittsburgh Steelers' Ike Taylor, left, in the first quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic) Browse more photos » In our post-game write up, we talked about Bernard Scott's game in the Bengals win over the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday. We wrote that "Scott recorded 206 yards on kickoff returns, giving him 260 yards total on offense and special teams." More importantly, he had a five-yard run with 3:05 left in the game that picked up a first down, forcing Pittsburgh to use two timeouts and subsquently taking another minute off the clock. Scott is one of five NFL rookies nominated for Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week. The others are. WR Jeremy Maclin, Philadelphia Eagles. Caught six passes for 76 yards and a touchdown. RB Beanie Wells, Arizona Cardinals. Rushed the football 16 times for 85 yards, two touchdowns and 32 yards receiving. LB Clay Matthews, Green Bay Packers. One sack and two fumble recoveries. LB Brian Orakpo, Washington Redskins. Five tackles and 1.5 quarterback sacks. This is a fan vote. So come in full force and vote for Scott. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1022396/bengals-quotone-team-one-fightquot.html The Bengals are now entering a period in their schedule that will provide the greatest mental test of the year. They are about to embark on three weeks of games that they should win.  The Raiders, Browns, & Lions are a combined 4-23 fighting for the first pick in next years draft. A position most Bengal players should remember from last year's debacle. Hopefully they will draw on that experience to keep them from falling into an over confident trap. The other side of this coin is that these three teams will see what a difference a year can make. Watching players, that in their own recollection, are the misfit players of the NFL. The players that have been given a chance to prove themselves. Playing together, "One Team One Fight ", for what many have consider to be, a second rate NFL franchise. The difference maker now will be how well the Bengals dispatch the teams that they should beat in the next three weeks. The first nine weeks of the season has been full of nail biting must win games and the Bengals have shown up in spades. The downside of these battles is that the Bengals are now a little beat up physically and perhaps ripe for an upset. The challenge ahead is to keep the focus, come out and soundly beat lesser opponents. Create opportunities to rest players they will need for two difficult road games against the Vikings and the Chargers back to back. When a team is losing the coach is often to blame. When a team is playing well the credit usually goes to the players. Congratulations goes to Marvin Lewis and his staff. The team is playing inspired football, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Watching the Bengals play the last two weeks makes it evident that this is the most motivated team in recent franchise history. This team must only stay the course, a course that is heading toward a division crown. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1022395/johnson-officially-bengal.html Larry Johnson is a Bengal after agreeing to terms on a one-year contract with the team this morning. The Bengals still have not made an official announcement since they still have to make a roster move to put Johnson on the 53-man roster. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1021225/steelers-polamalu-could-be-out-three-games-yahoo-sports.html Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro safety Troy Polamalu played in just one series Sunday and it's looking like he... Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1020304/bengals-expected-to-sign-johnson.html Barring any last-minute hiccups, the Bengals are expected to announce today that they have signed former Kansas City running back Larry Johnson as an insurance policy in case of injuries. Johnson arrived in Cincinnati yesterday and met with the coaching staff. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1020029/report-deal-between-bengals-larry-johnson-complete.html More photos » by Nick Wass - AP 7 days ago: FILE -- This is an Oct. 18, 2009, file photo showing Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson carrying the ball during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, in Landover, Md. The Chiefs have released troubled running back Larry Johnson. A two-paragraph statement from the team Monday, Nov. 9, 2009, simply listed Johnson's statistics and announced his release. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) Browse more photos » The Cincinnati Bengals and running back Larry Johnson have agreed to terms and the "deal is done", writes Mike Florio at Pro Football Talk. As of this posting, neither the Bengals nor Johnson's agent Peter Schaffer had announced anything official. But we're sure a nice morning announcement will be scheduled, maybe even with the introduction of Johnson to the press and fans. The initial thought was that the Bengals were concerned enough about Cedric Benson's injury that they contacted and invited Johnson for a workout. However, Marvin Lewis said during the press conference Monday afternoon, that he "spoke to Larry Johnson last Thursday, and I wanted to visit with him about his future." ESPN's Michael Smith wrote that the Bengals were one of several teams to express interest before Sunday. Which means the Bengals were interested before Benson's injury on Sunday. Johnson's legal troubles are well documented. He's been arrested four times since 2003. The charges include felony aggravated assault and misdemeanor domestic battery when he waved a gun at his girlfriend at the time. Charges were later dropped. A woman made an accusation that Johnson pushed her to the ground. The case was dropped because the accuser didn't appear in the hearings. In 2008, he allegedly pushed a woman's head and his fourth arrest came when he spit a drink in a woman's face. He pled guilty to both and sentenced to two years of probation. Nice. Johnson's career peaked, so far, between 2005 and 2006 when he rushed for 3,539 yards and recorded 37 rushing touchdowns. He was a threat out of the backfield in the passing game too, catching 74 passes in that time frame. I understand the points against signing Johnson. I've made them myself. From a purely football perspective, Johnson does bring something to the table. Even though he only carried the football seven times on Sunday, Benson is still the league leader with 205 rushing attempts. He's nine rushing attempts from reaching a career-high 214 attempts in 2008. Furthermore, Benson is hurt. What better scenario than to give give Benson a game or two off to rest and recover, allowing a healthier and stronger Benson during the stretch run towards the playoffs. I know what you're saying. What about the Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard committee. I wondered that myself. But we honestly don't know whether either running back can be a 20-carry feature back. Scott said he felt great after a 13-carry performance against a hard-hitting Steelers defense. And, as Lewis said, this potential signing is merely an insurance policy. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1019069/boys-drop-ball.html GREEN BAY, Wis. - The unseasonably mild weather was the lone exception. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1018275/credit-singletary-for-trying-his-way.html To many Football fans, Mike Singletary remains a punch line. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1018274/bengals-rally-around-new-motto.html Following Sunday's 18-12 win over the Steelers, the AFC North-leading Bengals were greeted with long-sleeve shirts in the locker room with the initials "N.D.C.Q". Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1017508/sixpack-hudey-sign-mike-zimmer-to-longterm-contract-as-soon-possible.html Introducing to the inaugural edition to the "Six-Pack of Hu-Dey ", a selection of topics that we weigh in on. We hope to have this going weekly, but we'll need your help. If you have topics that you want examined or weighed in on, email them to me. Also, some veterans may recognize the spelling is actually correct. Hu-Dey beer once existed by Hudepohl Brewing Co. Bengals need to sign Mike Zimmer to an extension as soon as possible. This is one of those topics that we tend not to examine simply because of the obviousness of the issue. You know, like John Madden saying football is played by football players or that Cincinnatians are from Cincinnati. But here's the truth. Mike Zimmer is coaching under the final year of his two-year contract. The Bengals need to sign Zimmer to a long-term extension as the team's defensive coordinator as soon as possible. In 2007, the final year with Chuck Bresnahan as the team's defensive coordinator, the Bengals defense ranked 27th overall and 24th scoring. The Bengals signed Mike Zimmer in the offseason and the Bengals defense has steadily improved. In his first season, the Bengals total defense improved to 12th overall and 19th scoring. And through nine games in 2009, the Bengals have the 10th best overall defense, the second-best scoring defense and the league's second-best rushing defense. With those accolades, Zimmer will be a hot head coaching candidate in 2010. Even if no head coaching opportunities are granted Zimmer, he could find himself a rich contract as a defensive coordinator with a powerfully rich team -- say the Washington Redskins. Give him a share of ownership with the team. Whatever. Zimmer will be the biggest free agent the Bengals have to sign back this offseason. Brandon Johnson is the best backup player on defense. After Keith Rivers suffered a broken jaw during the seventh week of the 2008 NFL season, backup Bengals linebacker Brandon Johnson became the starting weak-side outside linebacker. He finished the season with 112 tackles, second on the team. Johnson's two picks also ranked second on the team and he was one of three defensive players in 2008 to record a sack and interception in the same season. During the offseason, the Bengals offered Johnson a $1.545 million restricted free agent tender, which he signed on August 16. He waited a long time looking for another team willing to offer the Bengals second-round compensation if they signed Johnson. No takers. Even though his overall numbers are down this year, considering he plays in mostly pass-obvious situations, Johnson's contributions for an injured Keith Rivers the past two weeks show that Johnson's play is no let-down by any means. He replaced Rivers in the third quarter against the Ravens and recorded a team leading nine tackles and sacked Joe Flacco 1.5 times. He leads the team with eight special teams tackles. Anytime that Johnson is forced to replace Rivers, he not only matches Rivers' production, but he plays well enough to that Rivers' absence isn't as noticeable. Which brings us to... If no collective bargaining agreement is created, then signing Brandon Johnson long-term isn't urgent. With all of that said, Cincinnati should still work on signing Johnson to a long-term contract after this year. Most likely, he'll look for an opportunity to start. And unless something happens from now until the start of free agency, more than likely, he'll find a place. In a perfect scenario, Johnson signs, plays the backup role one more season until Dhani Jones' contract expires. Then the Bengals could place Rey Maualuga at middle linebacker and place Johnson either on the weak-side or strong-side, based on the strengths of both he and Rivers. That is, if the new Collective Bargaining Agreement is worked out and the same free agency rules apply. There is a certain dynamic here. If the league doesn't replace the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement before free agency in 2010, then Brandon Johnson could be forced to stay in Cincinnati. Currently, the CBA says that players only need four accrued seasons to be an unrestricted free agent. In 2010, the CBA changes, based on the final year of the deal, in which players need six years to become unrestricted free agents. Therefore, Johnson would remain a restricted free agent and could be here for at least two more years. The Bengals shouldn't start Andre Smith this year. What I think as astronomical is that the Bengals still haven't played their first round pick, Andre Smith. The current Bengals offensive line has played so well, that Smith has become a luxury rather than a necessity. Only time I can remember this applying is when the Bengals decided to bench Carson Palmer his rookie season in favor of developing him behind Jon Kitna. The dynamic that Paul Alexander has created with this offensive line shouldn't be shuffled anymore than it already has been. As a unit, they've only allowed 14 quarterback sacks and have been a large part of Cincinnati's rushing success, which is ranked 11th in the NFL with 1,101 yards rushing. Cincinnati's weakest part of the schedule is coming up at Oakland, Detroit and at home against Cleveland. Conventional wisdom may suggest that the team could take the opportunity to give Smith a start, at least, to see what we have. But the best solution might be to use Smith in a Dennis Roland/Anthony Collins role, which would essentially make Smith the third offensive tackle on rushing plays. This would allow Smith to ease himself into the speed and strength of the NFL, while not disrupting the cohesiveness that the Bengals offensive line already have. Then again, there's working him in as an eventual replacement for Bobbie Williams at right guard... Bengals now have to beat teams that they should beat. So, I'm a little melodramatic. But I strongly believe after sweeping the Steelers and Ravens (I'll never get tired of that term), with wins against the Bears, Packers and Browns, Cincinnati losing any of the next three games could run the risk of losing everything they've earned. The next three games on the schedule are against teams with a combined 4-22 record (Oakland, Cleveland, Detroit). Losing any of those games not only hurts the team's legitimacy, as well as their confidence, but it would bring Pittsburgh right back into the mix. It's one thing to lose against a very good football team with a winning record. But they must beat teams that they should beat. That's what winning teams do. Successes of others helps ease the fall of Antwan Odom's injury. Since Antwan Odom was injured against the Houston Texans, the Bengals defense has recorded 11 quarterback sacks (which includes the loss to the Texans). A large part of that success has come from the combination of Jonathan Fanene and Robert Geathers, recording a combined four sacks against the two divisional powerhouses Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Geathers has recorded sacks in back-to-back games. More surprisingly is Frostee Rucker's successes dating back to Chicago where he his playing time increased because of Odom's injury. In that three game stretch, Rucker has a quarterback sack, an interception, a deflection and three quarterback hits. Odom clearly set the season with seven quarterback sacks in the first two games of the season. The rest of the defense continues to follow suit. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1017507/hurry-up-steelers-playing-catchup-to-bengals-pa-sportsticker.html By ALAN ROBINSON AP Sports Writer Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/1017506/win-over-steelers-leaves-bengals-in-control-afc-north-division-canadian-press.html CINCINNATI, Ohio - Black, long-sleeve shirts awaited the Cincinnati Bengals when they showed up at Paul Brown Stadium, a gift from coach Marvin Lewis reminding them not to get too caught up in their panoramic view atop the AFC North. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates