What Should We Really Expect from the Cincinnatti Bengals

We're all familiar with this situation; the Bengals have another losing season, although they seemed to have enough talent to compete and even win the division last season. But last season was lost to injuries (Rivers, Palmer).

Some say that the season rests on Carson Palmer's right arm. Others say it all depends on Andre Smith and the line's ability to protect Palmer. Still others say it depends on Ochocinco's bounceback year.

The way I see it, next season depends on two things, and that's the same gameplan that the two AFC North teams that played in the AFC Title Game are famous for using. Defense.

The Ravens and the Steelers were the first and second ranked defense. The Bengals were twelve. That will get better this year. For a number of reasons. First of all, just glancing at the roster, they won't need to sign anyone off the street (Dhani Jones, Chris Crocker).

That's not to say these weren't good players, just that the Bengals have lacked depth over the past few years. Another is five linebackers competing for three starting jobs. Last year, Rivers got hurt, and Johnson filled and to some extent, it worked out.

But now, if you're that third man and you look at the coach wrong, you could find a seat on the bench.The DLine is hopefully another improvement. Although some believe Peko is one of the most underrated players in the NFL, he's still in between Odom and Geathers, who did nothing last year. They added Tank and Johnson, who could also play linebacker.

Perhaps the biggest addition to help the defense? Kevin Huber. It should be easy not to give up points when the other team will start from midfield, assuming your offense starts on the one and goes nowhere.

You can't win with defense alone though, somebody, somewhere has to score.

That man may have to be Shayne Graham, but you still need someone on offense. Benson comes back the favorite to start, although they just got Brian Leonard, who could also play fullback. Benson looked good last year with no official offseason training and no fullback, I can't imagine he'll be any worse this year.

Every team needs a possession reciever. This season I feel the passing game lies on Chris Henry's shoulders. Defenses no to look out for Chad and Coles. If Henry can win his one-on-one, he'll be seen as the best third reciever in the NFL again.This year, I see a winning season, but not a Division Title. Possibly a Wildcard berth, but don't hold your breath.