Cincinnati Bengals Living Up to the "Sleeper" Name so Far in 2009

This article can also be found on WhoDeyBengals.com

Despite a disappointing season in which they finished with a 4-11-1 record, many analysts were predicting the 2009 Cincinnati Bengals as a sleeper team, and to breakout as playoff contenders.

Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer was returning after missing most of the 2008 season with an elbow injury. Cedric Benson finished last season on a strong note, averaging 118 yards rushing the final three games. Chad Ochocinco was looking to recover from his worst season since his rookie year after hauling in just 53 receptions for 540 yards, and four touchdowns.

Through the first five weeks of the 2009 season, the Bengals have lived up to their sleeper hype—along with making believers of the rest who were doubters. Not only are they 4-1, but they stand alone at first place in the AFC North—defeating their division rivals (Steelers, Browns, and Ravens) the last three weeks.

So what's different about this year's Bengals?

For starters, the return of Palmer may be one of the biggest differences when compared to last year's Bengals.

When Palmer was sidelined last season, Ryan Fitzpatrick took over as the leader for the Bengals' offense at quarterback.

One thing we learned about Fitzpatrick last season: He is nowhere close to being the type of quarterback Palmer is (or ever will be). With Fitzpatrick under center last season, the Bengals struggled to put up points each game, finishing last in the NFL by only scoring 12.8 points per game.

Through five games this season, the Bengals have increased their scoring average to 20.2 points per game, which ranks them tied for 20th with the New York Jets. This is impressive, considering they've played against three defenses who rank in the Top 14 teams as far as points allowed per game (Broncos, Steelers, and Ravens). Not to mention, each of these team's defenses average under 20 points allowed per game.

The point average may not be as high as it could be, but the Bengals have to be impressed with the fact they rank in the Top 10 in both passing, and rushing yards per game. On top of that, their last three wins have come from scoring on their final drive on offense in the fourth quarter—which have helped them establish the nickname "Cardiac Cats."

The city of Cincinnati has every reason in the world to be excited about the way their Bengals are performing so far this season. With three upcoming home games at Paul Brown Stadium against the Texans, Bears, and Ravens, the Bengals have a chance to continue their recent success and show why they were selected as a "sleeper" in 2009.

Be sure to check out WhoDeyBengals.com!