Newcomers Give Bengal Defense An Edge

By David Campbell

Marvin Lewis made his name with defense. Now, for the first time in seven years with the Cincinnati Bengals, Lewis finally has a defense worthy of his reputation.

Defense was one of the bright spots during the 2008 season for the Bengals, finishing 12th in yards allowed despite being put in seemingly impossible situations by an anemic offense. But Cincy didn't stand pat in the offseason and brought in some big names that could pay instant dividends.

Free agents Tank Johnson and Roy Williams, and draft picks Rey Maualuga and Michael Johnson change the face of an already good defense. And that face will have distinct snarl.

All four players are hitters. All four players bring attitude. And all four players walk onto a football field expecting to win. It's been a long time since any Bengal defender could say that.

The additions change the way defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer will attack opposing defenses. Last year, Zimmer spent much of the time in containment. This year, his Bengals can take the initiative.

The key could be Williams. While criticized for his apparent lack of pass coverage schools, Williams is a ferocious line of scrimmage defender. While he may not start right away, expect the heavy-hitter to upgrade the run defense significantly while giving the Bengals an experienced blitzer off the edge.

Johnson, his off the field problems notwithstanding, is an impressive pass-rusher for the defensive tackle and could open up the field for ends Robert Geathers, Antawn Odom and Johnson.

But it will be Maualuga that will be the most fun to watch. A cross between Troy Polamalu and Ray Lewis, Maualuga gives the Bengals a swagger not seen in these parts since the 1980s. Maualuga has a non-stop motor, hits like a freight-train and is a born leader. For the first time since Takeo Spikes and Brian Simmons, the Bengals have two linebackers (along with Keith Rivers) capable of changing the game.

The end result should be more pressure on the quarterback, the key to any successful defense. And with the defense on the rise, the Bengals could find themselves back in the playoffs.