Cincinnati Bengals: Week 12 Report Card

For the first time in team history, the Cincinnati Bengals have run the table in their division.  With a 16-7 victory over the Cleveland Browns, the Bengals finished the AFC North portion of their schedule with a perfect 6-0 record.  Marvin Lewis saw his team carry out what has become a familiar but effective game plan.

Offense

When the Bengals did throw the ball, Carson Palmer seemed out of sync with his receivers.  He totaled just 110 yards passing, but did connect with J.P. Foschi for the game's only touchdown.  Cedric Benson was not active for the game but the Bengals didn't miss a beat with the tandem of Larry Johnson and Bernard Scott.  They rushed for 107 and 87 yards, respectively.  The tight ends and offensive line also deserve credit as the Bengals averaged 4.7 yards per carry as a team.  Grade: C .

Defense

Offensively, the Browns are horrible.  When Brady Quinn did have time to throw, he was erratic.  However, when a defense holds an NFL offense (sort of) to 169 yards, it should be considered a good day.  Jamal Lewis gained just 40 yards on the ground, his largest gain being six yards.  It was the seventh straight game that the Bengals defense has not allowed 100 yards rushing, a franchise record.  Grade: A .

Special Teams

The Bengals did not give Joshua Cribbs the opportunity to burn them returning punts.  Kevin Huber punted five times, three of which went out of bounds.  Shayne Graham kicked three field goals.  Grade: A .