Cincinnati Bengals 2009 Season Preview

On the eve of the season opener for the Cincinnati Bengals, my mind is filled with optimism and questions.  

Last year was the most pathetic display of offense I have ever seen.  The return of Carson Palmer immediately makes them better.  

The defense was respectable in 2008, and should improve with newcomers Rey Maualuga, Tank Johnson and Roy Williams.  

Here are some of the questions that will be answered starting tomorrow.

Will Carson Palmer be ready to go?  Palmer suffered a sprained ankle in the first preseason game.  It appeared that the Bengals were being extra careful in sitting Palmer for the remainder of the preseason.  Reports are that he is ready to go.  Even with J.T. O'Sullivan being a major upgrade over Ryan Fitzpatrick as Palmer's backup, the fate of the Bengals rides on Palmer's shoulders.

Tight end?  Anyone?  Anyone?  The tight end position has taken two major hits so far. Reggie Kelly is out for the season with a ruptured Achilles tendon.  Ben Utecht has been dealing with the effects of his fifth concussion and wondering if he will ever play football again.

Is Chris Henry a changed man?  Henry's talent and physical abilities have never been a question.  It has been off-the-field wrongdoings that have plagued the wide receiver.  He has managed to stay out of trouble for a while now, and will be a valuable offensive weapon if he can continue to do so.

Is Chad Ochocinco back?  The receiver formerly known as Chad Johnson is looking to rebound from a dismal season that saw him miss the Pro Bowl for the first time in six years.  He seems to be recharged, rejuvenated and ready to show the rest of the NFL that he still has it.

Does it really all come down to the offensive line?  The offensive line gave up 51 sacks last year.  That simply cannot happen if this team is going to have any measure of success.  If the line can protect Palmer and create holes for Cedric Benson, the Bengals have a chance to make some noise in the AFC North.