http://www.sportsnipe.com Cincinnati Bengals, Team News, Updates, and Stats from all sports sources, updated continually. http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2906844/suspension-list-lengthy-one.html NEW YORK ? Ben Roethlisberger is one of 14 players who begin the NFL season on suspension. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2905229/bengals-eschew-oldfashioned-fullback.html The Bengals have decided to go without a "true" fullback on their roster heading into Sunday's season opener at New England. They have delegated the role to their trio of tight ends ? Reggie Kelly, Jermaine Gresham and Daniel Coats ? and backup linebacker Dan Skuta. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2905228/to-ochocinco-get-joint-talk-show-on-versus-ap.html ^ Teammates on the field this season, Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco are teaming up on TV as well. The outspoken Cincinnati Bengals receivers, already with their own separate reality shows, are getting a weekly talk show, to be broadcast on the Versus cable network. "The T.Ocho Show" will start Tuesday night as a segment on "The Daily Line," the network's nightly sports... Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2899921/briscoe-claimed-by-tampa-bay.html Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2898682/report-dezmon-briscoe-decides-to-sign-buccaneers-practice-squad.html More photos » Orlin Wagner - AP 9 months ago: FILE - This is an Oct. 10, 2009, file photo showing Kansas wide receiver Dezmon Briscoe (80) catching a touchdown pass while covered by Iowa State defensive back Leonard Johnson (23) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, in Lawrence, Kan. Kansas beat Iowa State 41-36. Dezmon Briscoe will forego his senior season and enter the NFL draft. One of the nation's most explosive wide receivers, he finished his junior season with 84 catches for 1,337 yards and nine touchdowns. (AP Photo/Orlin Wagner, File) Browse more photos » After clearing waivers when claims were due by noon on Sunday, Dezmon Briscoe was left with a choice. He could sign onto the Bengals practice squad, or he could choose to sign elsewhere. He decided to sign elsewhere. According to Joe Reedy (via Briscoe's agent), the wide receiver has elected to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad. The biggest reason, "they are paying the rookie minimum compared to the practice squad contract." According to this NFL.com report, the rookie minimum is $310,000 while the standard going rate for a practice squad player is $5,200 a week. Deciding to sign with Tampa Bay's practice squad probably makes more sense for him anyway, considering he'd have to climb a mountain, not just to make the Bengals squad, but to actually get on the field on Sundays. With the Buccaneers, he would have an easier time signing with the team's 53-man roster with receivers like Michael Spurlock (no receptions from 2007-2009), Maurice Stovall (24 receptions in 2009 was a career high) and Reggie Brown (27 receptions in the past 24 games played). And if worse comes to worse and we're in need of a wide receiver, the Bengals can simply sign Briscoe to their 53-man roster and he's back on the squad. Simple as that. As for the Bengals, they still have a slot remaining to sign an eighth practice squad player. Any guesses? Chris Rodgers, perhaps? Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2898681/osullivan-out-lefevour-in-practice-squad-shaping-up.html At least for now, it looks like Carson Palmer’s top back-up at quarterback will be his younger brother, Jordan. The Bengals made the move many fans expected today with the release of QB J.T. O’Sullivan.  The journeyman was unable to piece together a single touchdown scoring drive during the preseason, despite getting the most snaps, several [...] Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2898680/lewis-tj-homecoming-unlikely.html Head Coach Marvin Lewis poured cold water on speculation the team might be interested in bringing back WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh.  The #3 all time receiver in Bengals history was let go by the Seahawks yesterday.  Here’s what coach Lew had this to say: “It’s unfortunate that T.J. got released. He’s going to get another opportunity. He’ll [...] Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2895722/bengals-53man-roster-will-be-fluid-thing.html More photos » Andy Lyons - Getty Images Dezmon Briscoe could be a highly sought waiver claim on Sunday. Will he make the Bengals' practice squad? That's a question we'll be eager to learn. Browse more photos » Because I'm vain enough to do it, I wanted to give a final tally of our 2010 53-man roster prediction. In 2009, we missed seven. This year, we missed two -- we had Chase Coffman and Kyries Hebert making the squad, instead David Jones and Frostee Rucker made it. Coffman was a big surprise, but Hebert was a bigger one for me. Not only being a special teams ace, the Bengals only took three safeties, which wasn't expected. Keepin' us on our toes, eh Marvin? We like it. Ultimately, that was quickly amended with a planned trade. Overall, Saturday was an interesting day, watching quality players fall from the team's 53-man roster because there's simply no room. As Marvin Lewis says, it's a good problem to have. Cincinnati is talented enough that they can get rid of a guy like Chase Coffman, who was expected to be somewhat of an effective tight end in the passing game. They can finally lessen a player's potential, like Dezmon Briscoe, because the team has enough talent (and hopefully confidence) on the roster to be effective today. Even though the team's 53-man roster has been determined, it's hardly set. In fact, it'll never be truly set. It's just a maximum number that the Bengals can't surprise on their roster. That's it. Players will be released, injured, signed, upgraded from the practice squad. It's a fluid thing. For example, soon after the Bengals announced their 53-man roster on Saturday, they traded cornerback David Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars for safety Reggie Nelson, giving the team five former first round draft picks in the secondary (Leon Hall, Johnathan Joseph, Adam Jones, Roy Williams and now Nelson). And we expect today that the 53-man roster will evolve further still. There's still the chance that the Bengals could sign a fullback off waivers, or a quarterback off free agency. Then there's our own players that we threw on the waiver wire that we'll want back on the practice squad, like Dezmon Briscoe, Clinton McDonald, Rico Murray, Otis Hudson, Vincent Rey, Johnny Sears, Jeromy Miles or Joe Tronzo, among others. The practice squad will be announced Sunday. Stay tuned. We're just getting started heading into the first week of the team's first week in the regular season. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2895721/interest-in-leinart-confirmed.html Per Joe Reedy at Cincinnati.com, our speculated Bengal interest in former Cardinal QB Matt Leinart is apparently confirmed: Per multiple league sources, the Bengals are one of five teams who are in the running for former Arizona QB Matt Leinart. The others who have expressed interest are others that have some backup problems as well ? [...] Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2895720/bengals-making-run-at-qb-leinart.html Per multiple league sources, the Bengals are one of five teams who are in the running for former Arizona QB Matt Leinart. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2895038/cincinnati-chooses-coats-for-tight-end-adds-safety.html CINCINNATI - With plenty of depth on the Bengals' roster, cut-down day was expected to produce a couple of surprises. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2894264/bengals-roster-in-flux.html Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2894082/nfl-cutdown-day-afc-north-sportingnewscom.html Teams had until 5 p.m. ET Sept. 4 to reach the NFL-mandated 53-player roster limit. Here's a team-by-team look from SN's correspondents at cuts and other decisions by teams in the division: Baltimore Ravens The team chose incumbent kicker Billy Cundiff over Shayne Graham, one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history. Cundiff was 3-of-3 on field-goal attempts in the preseason and outkicked Graham in practice. In a somewhat surprising move, the Ravens traded outside linebacker Antwan Barnes to the Philadelphia Eagles for reportedly a seventh-round... Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890560/nfl-roster-cuts-bengals-waive-offensive-lineman-isaac-sowells.html More photos » Tom Strickland - AP 1 day ago: Indianapolis Colts defensive end John Chick (97) is blocked by Cincinnati Bengals guard Isaac Sowells (79) during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game in Indianapolis, Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010. (AP Photo/Tom Strickland) Browse more photos » One roster cut we didn't expect to make is was offensive lineman Isaac Sowells. According to Ravens Insider's Aaron Wilson, the Bengals waived Sowells, originally drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. Cincinnati signed him on June 3 this year, but he was a long-shot at best to make the squad. With the news that the Bengals are keeping backup center Reggie Stephens, we're pretty confident that Cincinnati will keep nine offensive linemen this year. Our 53-man prediction roster has the Bengals keeping Andrew Whitworth, Anthony Collins, Andre Smith, Dennis Roland, Bobbie Williams, Nate Livings, Evan Mathis, Kyle Cook and, of course, Reggie Stephens. If they elect to go with ten, then Otis Hudson could have that spot; though we largely expect him to join the team's practice squad. Our cut list thus far is: Dezmon Briscoe, Matt Jones, Kyries Hebert, Dave Rayner and Sowells. We're also hearing unconfirmed reports that James Johnson is a cut, but we'll wait for confirmation before going with it. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890559/nfl-roster-cuts-bengals-release-safety-marvin-white.html More photos » David Kohl - AP 9 months ago: Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco gets past Detroit Lions safety Marvin White (25) after catching a pass during the second half of their NFL football game in Cincinnati, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009. (AP Photo/David Kohl) Browse more photos » On August 22, the Cincinnati Bengals signed safety Marvin White for a second tour of duty, mostly in response to Gibril Wilson going on Injured Reserve. Though one could argue that safety is somewhat of a wreck with injuries -- mostly minor, we hope -- so the team really wanted to fill the roster with some bodies during preseason. White played two games with the Bengals in the preseason, even starting against the Buffalo Bills. In both games White recorded seven tackles and two passes defensed. On September 4, White is back on free agency. According to Joe Reedy, the Bengals released White, making it two safeties cut so far with Hebert being the other. That leaves Chris Crocker, Roy Williams, Rico Murray and Chinedum Ndukwe as the team's remaining safeties on the roster. Our cut list thus far is: Dezmon Briscoe, Matt Jones, Kyries Hebert, Dave Rayner, Isaac Sowells and now Marvin White. Six reported cuts, 16 more reported cuts to go. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890558/nfl-roster-cuts-arizona-cardinals-release-quarterback-matt-leinart.html More photos » Matt York - AP 12 days ago: FILE - In this Aug. 14, 2010, file photo, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart (7) is shown in action against the Houston Texans in Glendale, Ariz. Tennessee Titans Vince Young and Leinart, the two former collegiate superstars, go against each other again Monday night when the Cardinals visit Tennessee on Monday night. (AP Photo/Matt York, File) Browse more photos » Backup quarterback has been a major issue of frustration and worry amongst Bengals fans. And there's good reason for it. O'Sullivan didn't record a single touchdown through 60 passing attempts and five preseason games. O'Sullivan and Jordan Palmer tied for a dismal 6.6 yards/attempt average and in truth, neither played well enough to help relieve general worries that sit in the back of our minds if Carson Palmer suffers an injury.   ATT COMP Comp% YARDS TD INT RATING J.T. O'Sullivan 60 35 58.3% 396 0 2 64.3 Jordan Palmer 52 29 55.8% 345 3 3 71.4 For those general reasons, many suspect that the Bengals will go through the waiver wire and free agency to see what remains. Some interest was peaked with reports that the Arizona Cardinals had enough of their former first round pick, quarterback Matt Leinart. The Tennessee Titans are also reportedly releasing Chris Simms.   ATT COMP Comp% YARDS TD INT RATING J.T. O'Sullivan 257 145 56.4% 1,866 9 13 69.9 Matt Leinart 595 340 57.1% 3,893 14 20 70.8 Chris Simms 511 297 58.1% 3,117 12 18 69.1 The truth is, why should we go after a quarterback that got beat out by Derek Anderson and backup Max Hall? Leinart's career numbers mirror that of O'Sullivan's, who has played with eight different teams since 2002. The idea of Leinart is interesting because the prospects of adding a new toy is always fun. But in reality, Leinart would have to lower his personal expectations to become a backup quarterback taking the going rate for backup quarterbacks.  While Seattle, the city for reclaiming USC castoffs, seems like a more appropriate destination, Leinart doesn't appear to be that much better of a solution than O'Sullivan. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890557/nfl-roster-cuts-bengals-waive-defensive-lineman-clinton-mcdonald.html More photos » Al Behrman - AP about 1 year ago: Cincinnati Bengals rookie defensive tackle Clinton McDonald waits for the snap during practice at their NFL football training camp, Saturday, Aug. 1, 2009, in Georgetown, Ky. (AP Photo/Al Behrman) Browse more photos » During the 2009 NFL Draft, the Bengals drafted Clinton McDonald with their 249th overall pick. He spent his entire rookie year with the Bengals practice squad. Considering that Marvin likes big guys that play multiple positions, McDonald was somewhat favored in that respect because he works as a defensive tackle and defensive end. When the season concluded, like all of the practice squad players, he was later released and then re-signed by the Bengals on January 10. However McDonald, who was lucky enough to wear the awesome 69 number, was waived by the Bengals Saturday, according to Aaron Wilson. Most likely McDonald will find himself on the team's practice squad again if he clears waivers. Based on our 53-man prediction roster, we had the Bengals keeping eight defensive line. They are: Antwan Odom, Robert Geathers, Jonathan Fanene, Carlos Dunlap, Domata Peko, Tank Johnson, Pat Sims and Geno Atkins. Our cut list thus far is: Dezmon Briscoe, Matt Jones, Kyries Hebert, Dave Rayner, Isaac Sowells, Marvin White, Maurice Purify and McDonald. Eight reported cuts, 14 more reported cuts to go. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890556/dan-coats-has-made-bengals-53.html Dan Coats has made the Bengals 53 Reedy. Told ya. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890555/nfl-roster-cuts-bengals-tefb-daniel-coats-makes-53man.html More photos » Darron Cummings - AP 1 day ago: Cincinnati Bengals tight end Daniel Coats (86) is tackled by Indianapolis Colts linebacker Ramon Humber (59) during the first quarter of an NFL preseason football game in Indianapolis, Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings) Browse more photos » Daniel Coats. If a player brings about a reaction that's non-too-kind from Bengals fans, it's Daniel Coats. His hands, the culprit. According to Football Outsiders, Coats dropped seven of the 31 passes for a league high drop rate of 22.6%. However, Coats isn't expected to be much of a factor in the team's passing game, unless they push Coats out in the flats and Palmer hits the fullback/tight end for an out under pressure. Now according to Coats, he played through much of the season with an injured finger. "I tore all the ligaments in my ring finger in the third game of the regular season last year." Coats was hardly used in the passing game this preseason, catching three passes for 29 yards receiving. Still, being an intended target is but a fraction of his uses with the Bengals. They like his versatility, playing tight end, fullback and special teams. And the whole tight end and fullback versatility aspect is a big thing for the Bengals, who are unlikely to keep a fullback by this time tomorrow. Therefore, the Bengals are keeping Coats, tweets Joe Reedy. Coats was our 47th lock for the roster on our 53-man roster prediction. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890554/cut-reports-trickling-in.html Latest cut list per Joe Reedy of Cincinnati.com: So as of 2:30 p.m. the cuts we know about are: WR Dez Briscoe, WR Matt Jones, K Dave Rayner, S Kyries Hebert, RB James Johnson, OT/G Isaac Sowells, S Marvin White, WR Maurice Purify The only surprise so far is Hebert, who looked to be in a good [...] Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890553/source-bengals-cut-former-browns-fourthrounder-isaac-sowells-national-football-post.html The Cincinnati Bengals have cut former fourth-round offensive guard Isaac Sowells, according to a league source... Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890552/source-bengal-cut-clinton-mcdonald-marvin-white-national-football-post.html The Cincinnati Bengals have released defensive end Clinton McDonald and safety Marvin White. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2890551/source-bengals-cut-clinton-mcdonald-marvin-white-national-football-post.html The Cincinnati Bengals have released defensive end Clinton McDonald and safety Marvin White. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2888357/former-bengals-getting-traded-chopped.html More photos » Bradley C Bower - AP about 1 year ago: Philadelphia Eagles guard Shawn Andrews, right, and his brother Stacy Andrews, left, participate in football minicamp at the team's Nova-Care Complex Friday, May 1, 2009, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Bradley C Bower) Browse more photos » While we wait for word on the Cincinnati Bengals' final cuts, due this afternoon, it's notable that around the league, former Cincinnati players are dropping like flies. Word broke a couple days ago that the Seattle Seahawks were looking to move WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Conventional wisdom was that no one would go after him because of the size of his contract, but it turns out that there's a clause requiring the Seahawks to pay the difference between the $7 million he's supposed to receive from them this year and anything another team pays him. As a result, Joe Reedy tweets that four teams, the Vikings, Jets, Chargers and Cardinals, have put offers on the table. So a return of Housh to Cincy seems very unlikely to happen, much, I'm sure, to 85's disappointment. Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, the Eagles acquired veteran guard Reggie Wells from Arizona, leading to reports that former Cincinnati Bengals franchise player Stacy Andrews will be traded or released. Stacy left two years ago to join his brother Shawn on the Eagles' offensive line. Ironically, Shawn was released earlier this year and signed with the division rival Giants. In short, the Eagles appear to have wasted a lot of money (and a first round pick) on the Andrews sisters. Pardon me while I point and laugh. Okay, I'm back. Moving on, the New England Patriots learned what we already knew, that Eric Ghiaciuc isn't any good. Ghiacuic was released by the Pats on Friday. Since leaving the Bengals, he's been rejected by Kansas City, San Diego and, now, New England. Next stop UFL? CFL? McD's? Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2888356/former-bengals-getting-traded-chopped.html More photos » Bradley C Bower - AP about 1 year ago: Philadelphia Eagles guard Shawn Andrews, right, and his brother Stacy Andrews, left, participate in football minicamp at the team's Nova-Care Complex Friday, May 1, 2009, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Bradley C Bower) Browse more photos » While we wait for word on the Cincinnati Bengals' final cuts, due this afternoon, it's notable that around the league, former Cincinnati players are dropping like flies. Word broke a couple days ago that the Seattle Seahawks were looking to move WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Conventional wisdom was that no one would go after him because of the size of his contract, but it turns out that there's a clause requiring the Seahawks to pay the difference between the $7 million he's supposed to receive from them this year and anything another team pays him. As a result, Joe Reedy tweets that four teams, the Vikings, Jets, Chargers and Cardinals, have put offers on the table. So a return of Housh to Cincy seems very unlikely to happen, much, I'm sure, to 85's disappointment. Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, the Eagles acquired veteran guard Reggie Wells from Arizona, leading to reports that former Cincinnati Bengals franchise player Stacy Andrews will be traded or released. Stacy left two years ago to join his brother Shawn on the Eagles' offensive line. Ironically, Shawn was released earlier this year and signed with the division rival Giants. In short, the Eagles appear to have wasted a lot of money (and a first round pick) on the Andrews sisters. Pardon me while I point and laugh. Okay, I'm back. Moving on, the New England Patriots learned what we already knew, that Eric Ghiaciuc isn't any good. Ghiacuic was released by the Pats on Friday. Since leaving the Bengals, he's been rejected by Kansas City, San Diego and, now, New England. Next stop UFL? CFL? McD's? Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2888355/steelers-down-to-two-qbs-saying-which-will-start.html PITTSBURGH - Ben Roethlisberger isn't the only Steelers quarterback who might be out for four weeks. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2888354/nfl-preseason-results-schedule.html Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2887359/roster-ramblings.html The Bengals need to say goodbye to 22 players who?ve fought the last 6 weeks in a bid to win a coveted job as an NFL player by 6:00 PM Saturday.  The decisions are never easy, but this year the roster is especially deep, meaning players cut here could have an excellent shot of catching on [...] Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2882452/houshmandzadeh-rejoining-bengals.html Joe Reedy has the latest on the Bengals' logjam at wide receiver - including the rumor that T.J. Houshmandzadeh may be on his way back to Cincinnati. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2882451/terrence-cody-says-knee-surgery-was-successful-national-football-post.html OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Baltimore Ravens rookie nose guard Terrence "Mount" Cody proclaimed his... Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2881928/quothe-shows-speed-that-we-know-hes-got-was-thing-cedric-had-coming-out-virginia.html "He shows the speed that we know he's got. That was the thing Cedric had coming out of Virginia a year ago. It kind of got him elevated up in the draft. We know he can do it. He's been an impressive guy for us." Marvin Lewis on Cedric Peerman Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2881332/quothes-all-about-revenuesharing-he-comes-right-out-says-i-just-want-some-your-money.html "He?s all about revenue-sharing ? he comes right out and says, ?I just want some of your money.? He?s worn out his welcome with 99 percent of that room. He came out and said that new stadiums are the worst thing to happen to the NFL because they raised the bar for other clubs. Unbelievable." Unnamed NFC owner on Mike Brown Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2881331/nfl-roster-cuts-cincinnati-bengals-coaches-to-decide-their-2010-place-kicker.html More photos » Darron Cummings - AP Cincinnati Bengals place kicker Mike Nugent (2) looks on after kicking a 52-yard field goal during the first quarter of an NFL preseason football game against the Indianapolis Colts in Indianapolis, Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010. Colts cornerback Ray Fisher (28) runs past Nugent. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings) Browse more photos » One of several decisions that the coaching staff must make for the Bengals to drop 22 players by 2 p.m. Saturday afternoon, is declaring a winner between the Bengals place kickers. Neither kicker converted every field goal, with Rayner missing two of his eight attempts and Nugent missing one of four. To be fair, though, Nugent's lone miss was a 59-yard attempt with three seconds left against the Philadelphia Eagles. Overall, the two finished the season with a photo finish, Nugent converting a greater overall field goal percentage, but only kicking half of Rayner's attempts. Neither player had an edge on kickoffs, with Rayner taking a .2-yard average on kickoffs. Rayner converted all five extra point attempts with Nugent kicking all six.   FG Att / FGM XP Dave Rayner 8 / 6 5 / 5 Mike Nugent 4 / 3 6 / 6 The advantage that may give Nugent the edge is successfully kicking a 50-yard (or more) field goal in back-to-back games. Rayner, on the other hand, had two misses of 34 and 44 yards. Field Goal notes per game.   Mike Nugent David Rayner Cowboys No attempts No attempts Broncos No attempts Converted four FGs at 36, 27, 31 and 26 yards. Missed a 44-yarder Eagles Missed 59-yard FG attempt (short) Missed 34-yard FG attempt (wide left) Bills Converted 54-yard FG Converted 32-yard FG Colts Converted two FGs at 52 and 34 yards Converted 39-yard FG The idea that Rayner was a better kickoff specialist of the two, didn't show up as much during the preseason. Even though he had the two highest averages against the Cowboys and Bills, he also dipped to a 63-yard average against the Eagles. Kickoffs Per Game .   Mike Nugent David Rayner   Kickoff Avg. # Kickoffs Touchbacks Kickoff Avg. # Kickoffs Touchbacks Cowboys -- -- -- 71.5 2 1 Broncos 66.3 3 0 69.4 5 0 Eagles -- -- -- 63.0 4 0 Bills 66.7 3 1 72.5 2 0 Colts 70.0 3 0 67.0 4 0 Total 67.7 9 1 67.9 17 1 Comparatively speaking, both kickers had nearly a three-yard disadvantage compared to former Bengals place kicker Shayne Graham, who averaged 70.6 yards per kickoff. One has to suspect that Nugent, born and raised in the state of Ohio (if that matters), has a slight advantage. "I feel great, I feel healthy and I?m trying to get 100 percent," said Nugent. "Not to take things too far ? it?s just preseason ? but I feel that working with Darrin (Simmons) has made me a better kicker. I didn?t kick the way I wanted to the last couple of years, but Darrin and I worked on some things, and I really feel I?m hitting the ball more consistently." Even with Nugent's consecutive 50-yard conversions in mind, there stands a chance that Cincinnati could visit the waiver wire for a kicker with other teams having their own place kicking battles. Friday morning, the Houston Texans released veteran place kicker Kris Brown. You also suspect that Baltimore will release either Graham or Billy Cundiff. Poll What will the Bengals do with place kickers? Mike Nugent Dave Rayner Kicker will be picked up off waivers   3 votes | Results Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2881330/nfl-preseason-results-box-scores.html Cincinnati 30, Indianapolis 28 Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2880918/bengals-make-roster-runs-in-final-exhibition-game.html INDIANAPOLIS - In the exhibition finale, most of the guys on the roster bubble who needed to have strong performances delivered. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2880659/reason-for-concerns-afc-north-sportingnewscom.html A capsule look at reasons for concern among teams in the AFC North: Baltimore Ravens 1. An offensive line in flux. There is no timeframe when RT Jared Gaither will return from a back injury. The top backup, Oniel Cousins, has missed substantial practice time with a concussion and was inconsistent when healthy. The coaches probably will move RG Marshal Yanda to tackle and insert backup C Chris Chester at right guard. That leaves this unit with little depth. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2878131/bengals-close-preseason-3028-win-over-colts-time-for-coaches-to-make-final-roster-decisions.html More photos » Andy Lyons - Getty Images about 1 hour ago: INDIANAPOLIS - SEPTEMBER 02: J.T. O'Sullivan #4 of the Cincinnati Bengals looks to throw a pass during the NFL preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 2 2010 in Indianapolis Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) Browse more photos » The point of Thursday's game was to get a better account of individual battles that are vying for a spot on the team's roster. With that being the cause, during Cincinnati's 30-28 win over the Indianapolis Colts, it would be impossible to predict the team's full 53-man roster, with so many questions; like will the Bengals only take two quarterbacks, how many linebackers will they take? Jerome Simpson made his best case to make the roster. On third-and-10 with 11:04 left in the second quarter, J.T. O'Sullivan, under severe pressure and hit as he released the football, completed an 18-yard pass to Simpson with an amazing vertical between two defenders. Simpson picked up the first down. After Carson Palmer played the first series, J.T. O'Sullivan came in, completing nine of 12 passes for 102 yards passing. O'Sullivan was literally under assault from the Colts with a second-team offensive line that played terribly uninspiring. Jordan Palmer outperformed him, arguably playing against lesser talent on defense, completely 10 of 14 passes for 115 yards passing and two touchdowns. Cedric Peerman, behind a suddenly used wishbone offense, scored on a 93-yard touchdown run with 11:22 left in the third quarter. With over six minutes left in the fourth quarter, Peerman also returned a kickoff 50 yards. On the following play, with 6:18 left in the game, Jordan Palmer in shotgun heaves a pass down the right sidelines to a wide open Dezmon Briscoe, who had a quick hesitation move, beating the Colts secondary by three yards. Peerman would go on to record 165 total yards with 15 yards receiving and 100 yards rushing. Johnny Sears was dominated, mostly covering rookie receiver Blair White, who caught five passes for 96 yards receiving in the first half. Otis Hudson gave up a quarterback sack to Colts rookie defensive end Ricardo Mathews; the J.T. O'Sullivan led offense couldn't recover for a first down. David Jones allowed a 22-yard touchdown to Brandon James, not even turning to find the ball, with 5:07 left in the third quarter. Based on a recent article pointing out 46 players that will likely make the team, we'd be remise not to update the list. After Thursday night, we have Daniel Coats becoming the team's fourth tight end, primarily because he played mostly fullback while Joe Tronzo never played with the first team offense. We also have Cedric Peerman becoming the team's fourth running back, bringing our locks total up to 48. Peerman also made a huge argument that he could help with the team's kickoff return game. Simpson had his best game of the preseason, recording six receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown. Briscoe recorded a 50-yard reception. Alternatively, Cosby had arguably a down game, averaging nine yards on three punt returns with no receptions on offense. The battle between Mike Nugent and Dave Rayner has been a close competition since July. Having converted two 50-yard field goals this preseason, Nugent seems to have the advantage. Cincinnati finishes with 3-2 record this preseason. Next up, final cuts. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2877220/open-thread-cincinnati-bengals-22-at-indianapolis-colts-03.html Here we are. The Cincinnati Bengals, mostly everyone except the starters who may play half-a-quarter, will conclude their preseason Thursday night, taking on the second-team Indianapolis Colts. After this weekend, which will include the team's announced final roster, the Bengals regular season will begin. Everything we had hoped during the offseason will be set into motion. Few battles remain. Save for the competition between Mike Nugent and David Rayner, the only roster competitions are basically being fought by guys that will take the bottom of their respective position on the roster. I would say that all things considered, that's a good thing. I totally Marvinism'ed you. Tonight's game will kickoff at 7 p.m. and will be shown on Channel 12 locally. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2877219/final-preseason-game-primer-bengals-at-colts.html Tonight the Bengals face their final preseason foe, the familiar tilt with Indianapolis.  The team plays them yearly, most likely due to the very short travel distance between Cincy and Indy. It’s the last preseason game for both squads, so don’t look for starters to play more than a series or two.  The purpose for this [...] Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2875823/thin-at-safety-bengals-invite-former-cowboys-pat-watkins-for-visit.html More photos » Marcio Sanchez - AP about 1 year ago: Dallas Cowboys safety Pat Watkins (25) tackles Oakland Raiders cornerback Justin Miller (22) in the second quarter during their preseason NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Thursday, Aug. 13, 2009. (AP Photo/Marcio Sanchez) Browse more photos » Every team has a weakness, either void of talent or caused by injury. One of the team's biggest weaknesses is at safety, through injury and simply just lacking in talent. Though not malicious in thought, after you get past Roy Williams, Chris Crocker and Chinedum Ndukwe, the unknown, mixed with inexperience causes just enough concern that the team is even looking outside the roster for help. According to Joe Reedy, the Bengals invited safety Pat Watkins in Cincinnati on Tuesday. Watkins was released by Dallas on Tuesday after missing most of training camp with a knee injury. He has missed 11 games the past two years due to knee and neck injuries. Since being drafted in the fifth round in 2006, Watkins has played in 49 games, starting 10. His best season was his rookie year of 2006, which was Mike Zimmer?s last year in Dallas as defensive coordinator. In nine starts, he made 36 tackles, three interceptions and had four pass deflections along with two forced fumbles. He?s also a special teams ace, ranking second with 18 tackles last year. Not to be all broken-record like, but missed 11 games to knee and neck injuries the past two years? With this medical staff? So it's not the same thing, in that Watkins wouldn't be offered $8 million just to sign. But it does shake me back to the nightmare earlier this week. Either way, the team knows that they're thin at safety, keeping their eyes open for anyone that becomes available. Don't be surprised if the team looks especially hard at the waiver wire after final cut down day to see who can improve the position. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2874030/open-thread-preseason-game-5-determines-roster-how-will-chips-fall.html Two things are going to happen tonight. A cold front will pass through Cincinnati to finally knock off this ridiculous 90 degree obsession mother earth has in store for us. Seriously, the sun baking water into vapor is like a torture of tyrants. Also tonight, the Bengals will play their final preseason game of the year. The final audition. Who are the bubble players to make this team of Merry Men? Any surprise cuts? What about veteran cuts? All of that will be known after Thursday night's game, which for some, will either give them safe passage onto the team's roster. So this is your Thursday open thread and the topic is two-fold. What positions do you think are still up in the air and which bubble players do you feel makes the team? Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2874022/boddenless-patriots-to-face-ocho-show.html Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2872970/bengals-still-undecided-on-backup-quarterback.html CINCINNATI ? For the Bengals, there are still some lingering issues going into an exhibition game tonight at the Indianapolis Colts. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2872967/backup-qbs-on-bubble.html Most of the Bengals' roster decisions have been settled, but there are still some lingering issues going into Thursday night's preseason finale at Indianapolis. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2871619/bengals-authentic-nfl-logoed-headwear-hits-golf-market-courtesy-reebok-taylormade.html TaylorMade-adidas Golf Company, a subsidiary of the adidas Group, has introduced a new line of hats and visors, which features the primary colors and logos of all 32 NFL teams. Golfers across the country can now fly the colors of their favorite teams on the golf course (not on Sundays of course). Fans can choose [...] Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2868384/bengals-could-go-without-fullback-to-start-regular-season.html In our most recent not-prediction posting, declaring the players that we figure as "locks" to make the team, we didn't lock in a fullback, saying that our tight ends could be used as de facto fullbacks -- especially between Reggie Kelly and Daniel Coats. And with as much three-receiver formations they used with the first team offense against the Bills, often putting Reggie Kelly into motion towards the point of attack, it makes you believe that the Bengals could forgo the use of a natural fullback entirely. The evidence mounts while the Bengals are thinking about it. “Once Fui got hurt in camp we had to have Plan B so the second plan would be to have the tight ends play fullback …,” offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski said. “I don’t know that it would limit you greatly but the hardest thing for the tight ends playing fullback is the downhill isolation blocks. A lot of the other things that we do are easy enough for them to do. It would affect your goal line and short-yardage probably quite a bit.” Even so, the Bengals tend to use their bigger packages in short-yardage or obvious-rushing situations, placing two offensive tackles side-by-side on one side of the line while a tight end lines up with a guard on the opposite end. Or they simply bring in Dennis Roland as an eligible receiver and place him on either side where a tight end would normally line up. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2868383/jason-cole-antonio-bryants-career-could-be-in-jeopardy-because-injured-knee.html More photos » David Kohl - AP 5 months ago: Recently signed Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Antonio Bryant answers questions during a news conference at Paul Brown Stadium, Thursday, March 18, 2010, in Cincinnati. Bryant signed a four-year deal with the NFL football team last week. (AP Photo/David Kohl) Browse more photos » It would make sense that the Bengals are leaving the door open for an eventual Antonio Bryant return -- a scenario we pondered when Bryant was released. When asked if there's a chance for Bryant to return, Marvin Lewis said during a Tuesday morning press conference that "I love the kid, and he’s such a football player. All he wants to do is play football, which is a good thing."Alright, so he didn't say anything that would help rip the fabric of space to take a peak into the future. With Lewisisms (or Lewisenese as some have called it), you have to read between the lines. Not that we're promoting Cincinnati bringing back Bryant; just saying he left that door open. That's all. However, let's say that the team suffers a major injury at wide receiver midway through the season and Bryant remains a free agent. Would you go after Bryant, who could be healthy enough to play, or would you go with the younger guys already on the roster? The answer, of course, is based on the person -- some would like to give the younger guys a chance. Would another team snag Bryant beforehand? His injury, plus the relatively unknown question if Bryant was honest about his knee during Cincinnati's courting, would be a likely detriment. However, what is becoming clearer this week is that his knee appears to be worse than we know. In his opening August 29 article that reads, "the career of wide receiver Antonio Bryant could be in jeopardy because of recurring knee problems that date to the 2009 season, two NFL sources say", Yahoo! Sports' Jason Cole writes, ”He barely practiced in training camp and now this happens,” said a league source with knowledge of Bryant’s knee problems. ”The guy can’t stay healthy at this point. He gets to the point that he’s feeling good, then it swells on him again. When that keeps happening, that’s a very strong indication that there are structural problems.” This indirectly corresponds with Peter King's latest Monday Morning Quarterback, writing: "If you're not looking for it, you won't find it,'' this official said. "It's a long-term knee problem that won't go away.'' The ailment refers to a complicated cartilage injury to the knee. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2868382/jason-cole-antonio-bryants-career-could-be-in-jeopardy-because-injured-knee.html More photos » David Kohl - AP 5 months ago: Recently signed Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Antonio Bryant answers questions during a news conference at Paul Brown Stadium, Thursday, March 18, 2010, in Cincinnati. Bryant signed a four-year deal with the NFL football team last week. (AP Photo/David Kohl) Browse more photos » It would make sense that the Bengals are leaving the door open for an eventual Antonio Bryant return -- a scenario we pondered when Bryant was released. When asked if there's a chance for Bryant to return, Marvin Lewis said during a Tuesday morning press conference that "I love the kid, and he’s such a football player. All he wants to do is play football, which is a good thing."Alright, so he didn't say anything that would help rip the fabric of space to take a peak into the future. With Lewisisms (or Lewisenese as some have called it), you have to read between the lines. Not that we're promoting Cincinnati bringing back Bryant; just saying he left that door open. That's all. However, let's say that the team suffers a major injury at wide receiver midway through the season and Bryant remains a free agent. Would you go after Bryant, who could be healthy enough to play, or would you go with the younger guys already on the roster? The answer, of course, is based on the person -- some would like to give the younger guys a chance. Would another team snag Bryant beforehand? His injury, plus the relatively unknown question if Bryant was honest about his knee during Cincinnati's courting, would be a likely detriment. However, what is becoming clearer this week is that his knee appears to be worse than we know. In his opening August 29 article that reads, "the career of wide receiver Antonio Bryant could be in jeopardy because of recurring knee problems that date to the 2009 season, two NFL sources say", Yahoo! Sports' Jason Cole writes, ”He barely practiced in training camp and now this happens,” said a league source with knowledge of Bryant’s knee problems. ”The guy can’t stay healthy at this point. He gets to the point that he’s feeling good, then it swells on him again. When that keeps happening, that’s a very strong indication that there are structural problems.” This indirectly corresponds with Peter King's latest Monday Morning Quarterback, writing: "If you're not looking for it, you won't find it,'' this official said. "It's a long-term knee problem that won't go away.'' The ailment refers to a complicated cartilage injury to the knee. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2868381/daily-banter-cuban-missles-launching-its-good-time-to-be-cincinnati-fan.html Al Behrman - AP about 19 hours ago: Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman walks off the field after pitching the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2010, in Cincinnati. Chapman was making his major league debut. Cincinnati won 8-4. (AP Photo/Al Behrman) View full size photo » You have to admit: Professional sports in Cincinnati is riding a high we haven't seen in some time. Last night, the Cincinnati Reds beat the Milwaukee Brewers and the Houston Astros (god love'em) shutout the St. Louis Cardinals in consecutive nights, giving the Reds a seven-game lead in the division with 30 games remaining; their magic number is 25. Not only that, but the Reds have the best record in the entire National League. The CIFL's Cincinnati Commandos, a professional indoor football league, finished 2010 with an 11-1 record and the CIFL title. And while the season hasn't started, expectations are very high for the Cincinnati Bengals this year. And did you see Aroldis Chapman last night, reaching 100 MPH (103 on a ground out to Craig Counsell) four times? Of course you did. It's not like you were watching Teen Mom, right? The Reds are playing inspired baseball, causing this old football junkie to tune into Fox Sports Ohio every night, eagerly anticipating that Joey Votto will reach out from the television screen and steal all of our wives. Will the Bengals do it this year? Who knows. All I know is that it's a great time to be a Cincinnati fan. With one preseason game remaining, the essence of the season's kickoff is drawing so much closer. In fact, you've probably seen all you're going to see with our starters. They might play two possessions this Thursday against the Indianapolis Colts. Based on last year against the same team, everyone that started the season started the preseason finale, save for Carson Palmer who spent most of the preseason resting a sprained ankle. The Bengals would go on to record 296 yards rushing in last year's preseason finale; mostly from the scrubs (a term of an endearment). Along with Cincinnati sports, football is heavy in the air, like a thick fog after a three-day long rainstorm. Ranging from the NFL's final preseason game, to college football kicking off on Thursday, the time of year we've been waiting for approaches with the warm embrace of an autumn wind. Don't forget Buckeye fans, the Ohio State University plays Marshall Thursday night on the Big Ten Network. SOMETIMES YOU MISS ONE. I was scouting the internet, checking out the opinions and insights from the many good writers out there. I especially like the insight. So I clicked on Jack Bechta's August 26 piece headlined "How an agent can define a career." When 6th round pick DT Kelly Gregg was cut by the Bengals in 1999, they signed him to the practice squad. The personnel director emphatically told me, “Kelly will never play in the League, and he is lucky to have a practice roster spot.” Gregg thus goes on to have somewhat of a successful NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens, recording 19.5 quarterback sacks and five straight seasons with 60 tackles or more between 2003 and 2007. Sometimes you find the diamonds in the rough, sometimes you simply miss one. And the Bengals missed that one. + Geoff Hobson doesn't call safety Kyries Hebert a lock this year. I have to disagree. While the depth might be good on special teams, it's terrible at safety, easily considered one of the weakest positions on the team in terms of depth. + While they're not reportedly involved, should the Bengals think about trading for Arizona Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart to backup Carson Palmer? + National Football Post's Matt Bowen likes Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley. + Jerome Simpson's chances of making the team could be through special teams. According to Joe Reedy: Lewis and special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons have mentioned that change in Simpson this week. Simpson has played on both kickoff and punt coverage. + The battle between place kickers is still up in the air. + Bengals wide receiver Maurice Purify is suspended a game for disorderly conduct. Shaun Rogers was fined one game check for taking a loaded gun to the freakin' airport. + Fox Sports' John Czarnecki suggests that Mike Brown should fire himself. Bengals owner Mike Brown should fire himself from all personnel decisions. The Bucs knew that receiver Antonio Bryant had a serious knee problem, but Brown, who detests having lots of scouts and personnel men, gave Bryant a huge free-agent contract worth $7 million in bonus money already paid and the kid still wants his $1.95 million salary even though he hasn’t practiced all summer. The best thing about having scouts is maybe one or two of them could have found out how much of a risk Bryant was. Those weren’t fantasy dollars that Brown tossed away. They are like some teams that fill needs with poor risks – they pass guys that others wanto to flunk and see what they want to see. + Of the 14 teams CBSSports.com's Pete Prisco saw during training camp, the Bengals were within his top-five of the best teams he saw. + While it doesn't seem likely that the Seahawks will release T.J. Houshmandzadeh, there are some in Seattle's media talking about it. + ESPN.com's Jeff Chadiha lists the top-ten young indispensable players. None were Bengals. + NFL Network's Bucky Brooks believes that Marvin Lewis has a shot at repeating as the coach of the year in 2010. Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates http://www.sportsnipe.com/main_sportsnews/2865825/bryants-agent-bengals-pursuing-settlement.html Cincinnati Bengals - Sport Snipe - Team News - Stats - Updates