SB Nation - Fui Vakanpuna

Arizona Cardinals Fly Around the NFC West: Roster Move Addition

Hawkwind — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:56:31 -0000

about 1 month ago: St. Louis Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo, left, is congratulated by linebackers coach Paul Ferraro after beating the Detroit Lions 17-10 in an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Browse more photos »

The Arizona Cardinals weren't the only team in the NFC West that made some roster moves this week, but even mid-season roster moves aren't the lead story this week. First it's worth mentioning that the Cardinals will make one more roster move in the upcoming couple of days because the Bengals have signed fullback Fui Vakanpuna off the Cardinals practice squad. It'll be interesting to see who the Cardinals sign to fill the vacant practice squad spot.

St. Louis Rams: Normally we list the teams in order of division standings but when a team breaks a 17 game losing streak, they deserve some recognition. It had literally been 378 days since the Rams last won a regular season game and Steven Jackson (149 yards rushing) did most of the heavy lifting against the equally hapless Lions. Despite the win the Rams still have major questions at quarterback and some are starting to think that Marc Bulger's career is very near the end. One bright spot, outside of Jackson of course, is the development of the offensive line though, especially first round pick Jason Smith. The Rams also made a roster move, releasing wide receiver Tim Carter and signing cornerback Danny Gorrer.

San Francisco 49ers: The Niners lost a game to the Colts that was closer than just about everyone expected (18-14) but the Niners aren't waving the "moral victory" flag either. Not only does this loss push their current losing streak to three but they also lost three significant starters during the game. Joe Staley (MCL and PCL strain) is expected to miss six weeks, Nate Clements (fractured scapula) is expected to miss six to eight weeks and Demetric Evans (AC sprain) is expected to miss at least three weeks. These injuries forced the Niners to make a couple of moves, signing cornerback Keith Smith (formerly of the Lions) and releasing seldom used wide receiver Michael Spurlock. Their also expected to make at least one more roster move (possibly pulling up an OT from their practice squad). Considering that Sunday's game was Alex Smith's first start since 2007, here's also a complete breakdown of his peformance and Niner's fans have also determined that the NFC West will come down to a dog fight (we can still say "dog fight" right?) between their team and the Cards.

Seattle Seahawks: Following thier second consecutive lopsided loss, which dropped them to 2-5, the Seahawks seem to be cleaining house. In the past two days they've made nine roster moves including the release of veteran running back Edgerrin James. Also included in the released/cut department include Travis Fisher and C.J. Wallace. New to the 53 man roster will be Mike Hass (WR), Roy Lewis (CB) and Jamar Adams (S), all of whom were on their practice squad. Filling thier now vacant practice squad spots will be Trae Williams (CB), DeAngelo Willingham (CB) and Devin Moore (RB). Needless to say roster cleaning like this is indicative of a team that has given up on any hopes of competing this season and moving on with the hopes of allowing younger players to grow during the remaining nine games. One interesting thought is that some Hawks fans are wondering if it's time to pass the torch from Matt Hasselbeck to Seneca Wallace (part I and II). Needless to say we're watching the demise of the Hawks and it could turn into quite a show over the next couple of seasons.

NFC West Standings

	W	L	PF	PA
Arizona	4	3	157	143
San Francisco	3	4	147	140
Seattle	2	5	135	147
St. Louis	1	7	77	221

(updated 11.3.2009 at 3:44 AM CST)

Report: Bengals signed Fui Vakapuna off the Arizona Cardinals' practice squad

Kirkendall — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:26:34 -0000

Even though Jeremi Johnson is working through a knee injury he suffered against the Chicago Bears, the Bengals signed fullback Fui Vakapuna off the Arizona Cardinals practice squad, Geoff Hobson writes. Vakapuna will go to the team's 53-man roster, which will require the team to either release/waive a player, or move them to an open spot on the practice squad.

Along with Jeremi Johnson and Chris Pressley, Vakapuna was featured on Hard Knocks as a major storyline of whom makes the squad as the team's fullback. And Vakapuna was generally the least impressive of the three. Johnson made the squad and Pressley was moved to the team's practice squad before he was signed away to Tampa Bay's 53-man roster.

Arizona Cardinals Finalize Practice Squad and Add Veteran Offensive Tackle

Hawkwind — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:59:46 -0000

When the Arizona Cardinals cut their roster down to 53 players, head coach Ken Whisenhunt said that there could still be some 'tweaking' once the dust settled from other team's cuts and it didn't take long for him to take action. The Red Birds added veteran offensive lineman Jeremy Bridges, a former Cardinal who played here in 2004 and 2005. Bridges, a 29 year old former sixth round pick, has also played for the Eagles (who drafted him), Panthers and spent the summer and past couple of months with the Redskins. Over the past three seasons he started 28 games over the past three seasons at both guard and tackle (although not at the same time obviously). He was signed by the Redskins and expected to compete for the starting right tackle job but when he lost the job, he also lost a roster spot. Bridges gives the Cardinals much improved depth at offensive tackle and some flexibility should either Mike Gandy or Levi Brown suffer some type of injury. To make room for Bridges the Cardinals cut Elton Brown.

That wasn't the only move the Cardinals made yesterday though because they also filled out their eight man practice squad, finally. Almost immediately they added four players of their own, Ed Gant (WR), Trevor Canfield (G/C) and Alex Field (DE) and Keilen Dykes (DT/DE) and the team finally announced the remaining four players yesterday, OLB/DE Chris Harrington (cut by the Bengals), FB Fui Vakapuna (cut by the Bengals), ILB Lee Robinson (cut by the Broncos) and CB Rashad Barksdale (cut by the Jets). We should all be familiar with Chris Harrington as he was the Cardinals sixth round pick in 2008 and he quickly became an ROTB favorite (here and here). We'll have more on each of the new faces after the jump.....

Fui Vakapuna - Vakapuna was a seventh round pick of the Bengals this season after coming out of BYU where he split time as a power running back and a lead blocking fullback. By all accounts the Bengals were absolutely enamored with Vakapuna leading up to the draft and it was a surprise to some when he was cut. The 5-11, 250 pound fullback is considered to be a powerful lead blocker and an adequate pass catcher out of the backfield. He also has the athleticism to contribute on special teams.

Lee Robinson - Robinson is an undrafted rookie who spent the entire training camp and preseason with the Broncos, which means that he did play in the preseason finale against the Cards (2 tackles). The official site is listing Robinson as an inside linebacker and the Broncos did use him on the inside but most scouts projected him as a outside pass rush linebacker coming out of the draft so he has some versatility. He has good size (6-3, 245) and was a very productive four year starter at Alcorn State. Here is one very complimentary video discussing Robinson's potential.

Rashad Barksdale - Barksdale, a former 6th round pick of the Eagles in 2007, has good size (6-0, 208) and has actually appeared in six NFL games for the Chiefs back in 2007. In the past two seasons he's been a member of the Eagles, Chiefs, Giants and most recently the Jets, although his stop in Kansas City was his only time spent on the 53 man roster.

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Now that the practice squad is finalized we can see that they've got two defensive lineman and two linebackers comprising half of the eight man squad. It's pretty clear where the team sees themselves lacking depth. I'm still a bit surprised that the Cards would carry another wide receiver on their practice squad even though they already have seven on the active roster but these things can still be tweaked. Thoughts?

Pour Some Sugar On Me - Preseason Wrap-up: Can We Build a Team That Can Beat the Raiders? Yes We Can!

Sugar — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:00:22 -0000

I understand how important this last preseason game was for roughly 20-30 players per team. I do. For some it was the difference between making the 53-man roster or getting cut. For others who were relatively certain of their impending unemployment, it was a chance to get on tape for potential future employers. For coaches, it was one last look at a few players they may try to retain on the practice squad. But for just about everybody else (in the world) these games were simply painful to watch.

As a Redskins' fan, I of course watched the game against the Jaguars intently and hung on most every play. But as I watched the games around the league, I found myself losing interest quickly as penalty flags rained down on my living room as if Pacman Jones himself were throwing them.

To write a recap of each game would be worse than having to read Peter King rate every latte he has ever drank. So instead, this week I thought I would put my preseason watch-a-ton to the test. Every team has made their final cuts. I will attempt to build a 53-man roster from all the players released by the Saturday deadline. This may include some players who ended up on the practice squad, but you'll have to excuse that. After all, even though I did watch pretty much every preseason game played in the last month, my knowledge of certain teams' backups probably doesn't go much further than guys who should rightfully land on the practice squad. This already feels like a poor man's version of Madden fantasy draft. I get to decide who I am going to keep and at what position they will play. My ultimate goal: a 53-man roster capable of beating the Oakland Raiders final 53-man roster. Our team name: Sugartime Ballers. At the end, you'll get to vote on whether you think the Ballers can take down the Raiders. The first picks after the jump...

QB (3): Jeff Garcia, Joey Harrington, Chase Daniel

This team is going to have a questionable offensive line, so I am going to need a veteran quarterback capable of escaping pressure and getting rid of the ball. I watched as much of the Raiders' preseason as I could stomach and to me it seemed like Jeff Garcia was the quarterback that gave them the best chance to win now. My guess is that they sensed that too and decided that going with a guy staring down 40 years old would be the nail in the coffin for the JaMarcus Russell era, at least from a confidence perspective. Joey Harrington (cut by the Saints) is experienced in the art of art of hand signaling, which is what I want in my backup QB. Plus he is a great pianist so he can play getaway music on the piano as Jeff Garcia is running fro his life behind whatever offensive line I can put together. Chase Daniel gave it a good run in D.C., but failed to be named as the 3rd quarterback when the team decided to go with nobody instead (ouch).

RB (5): Dominic Rhodes, Anthony Alridge, Ian Johnson, Fui Vakapuna, Isaac Redman

It struck me as a little odd when the Bills jettisoned Rhodes. With Lynch out for the beginning frames of the season and Fred Jackson a little dinged this preseason, I figured a veteran like Rhodes would have value for that team. Alridge just barely missed being the last running back kept by the Redskins and adds speed out of my backfield. Ian Johnson is a young buck that got bounced by the Vikings. I have a soft spot in my heart for this guy after watching him have such a great career at Boise State, not to mention the now famous Statue of Liberty play against Oklahoma a couple seasons ago. Vakapuna is a guy I picked because I need a blocking fullback and I have been watching HBO's Hard Knocks this season featuring the Bengals. He is a big, athletic dude, and we are going to need a Samoan presence in the backfield on this team. Redman had a great preseason in Pittsburgh but the numbers game beat him. We are lucky to have him and Vakapuna muscling up in our backfield.

TE (4): Leonard Pope, Alex Smith, Bear Pascoe, Garrett Mills

The Cards cut Pope and the Pats cut Smith. Both are capable receivers that understand the position well. Bear Pascoe was on the 49ers squad and I remember hearing his name for the first time late in the game against the Raiders I think. He was described by his college coach at Fresno State as the "most devastating blocker" they had ever seen. He started out there as a quarterback. He blocked 6 kicks on special teams, and keeps his edge by participating in rodeos. He's an old-school kind of player and on my team he will play an old-school role: Iron Man. At 6'5", 250+ lbs, he will never leave the field. Our wildcat offense will be called the "Wild Bear" formation and we will direct snap it to him. He will rush the passer on defense and he will line up all over the field on offense. His importance on this roster almost necessitated adding a 4th tight end to help carry the load at the position, and Mills, fresh off the Vikings roster, will fit in nicely. The Raiders will not have a chance.

OL (9): Damien McIntosh, Tony Pashos, Andrew Crummey, Kynan Forney, Jeremy Bridges, Scott Burley,Justin Geisenger, Mike Butterworth, Mark Wilson

McIntosh (Chiefs), Pashos (Jaguars), Crummey (Bengals), Forney (Chargers), and Bridges (Redskins) are my starting five. Burley (Redskins), Geisinger (Panthers), and Butterworth (Falcons) are my backups. Burely went to University of Maryland and has been hanging around the league the last two years. Geisinger is a journeyman lineman who spent a season with the Redskins but has also been a member of the Bills and Titans. The Raiders gave Mark Wilson his walking papers, but he has had steady employment as a backup since 2004. Mike Butterworth made this team because I simply ran out of guys that I really knew much about...and I love maple syrup on pancakes.

All of my starters would likely be welcome on most squads in the league after a few weeks when teams are all of a sudden hit by injuries and become starved for guys who have played before. Forney was a huge shock getting cut by San Diego. He might be one of the two or three best players on the Ballers.

WR (6): Keary Colbert, Robert Ferguson, David Tyree, David Patten, Trent Shelton, Steve Sanders

Ferguson (Falcons), Colbert (Lions), and Patten (Browns) have all been unfortunate members of previous unfortunate fantasy teams of mine. So they owe me. Hard to argue against Tyree (Giants). He can start on special teams and catch balls with his helmet. With Bear Pascoe behind center, he might have to catch a few wild pitches. Shelton (Redskins) should make their practice squad and Steve Sanders (Cardinals) was great on Beverly Hills, 90210.

DL (8): Shaun Smith, Alex Buzbee, Ryan Boschetti, Darryl Richard, Rob Jackson, Tommie Hill, Matthias Askew, Terrance Taylor

The Patriots drafted Richard last April, and that is pretty much good enough for me. I recall Tommie Hill made a huge play late in the first Monday Night game against the Panthers, scoring a touchdown with no time left on the clock. Not being good enough for the Giants defensive line does not necessarily make you bad. Rob Jackson and Alex Buzbee both got cut from the Redskins so I have seen plenty of them and are comfortable with them as backups. Boschetti got dumped by the Raiders--can't remember anyone listing their personnel decisions as better than...well, anyone's. Shaun Smith was a shock to get sent home by the Lions. He is definitely good enough to anchor the Ballers' defensive line. And Terrance Taylor was a 4th round pick for the Colts. I am little surprised to see him gone from there, but we will not ask too many questions and scoop him up.

LB (8): Tim Crowder, Zach Thomas, Rocky Boiman, Khary Campbell, Bruce Davis, Jeremy Leman, Robert Thomas, Cody Glenn

Crowder should have cracked the Broncos' Final 53. Our squad will benefit from the veteran presence of Zach Thomas, who might not really have ever been realistically in the Chiefs' plans. Rocky Boiman has been around, most recently ending his second stint with the Titans. He has a ring from the Colts' Super Bowl victory and his experience will be put to good use for the Ballers. Khary Campbell is a special teams standout that did not make the last cuts in Houston. Bruce Davis was a huge underachiever for the Steelers. Here's hoping he can turn it around for the Ballers. Leman (Panthers) was a guy who I thought played well enough in the preseason to stick. I guess that is why my phone isn't ringing off the hook to become anybody's GM. Thomas and Glenn were both waived by the Skins. Thomas has plenty of experience in the league and Glenn (while still an odd draft choice by Vinny Cerrato--read: "wasted draft choice") is a raw player from the Nebraska Cornhuskers' program.

DB (8): Deltha O'Neal, Brian Russell, Brian Williams, Bernard Pollard, Corey Lynch , Deangelo Smith, Corey Ivy, Lendy Holmes

O'Neal (Texans), Williams (Jaguars), Russell (Seahawks), and Pollard (Chiefs) are my starting defensive backs (first two are CB's, second two will man the safety positions. Smith (Cowgirls), Lynch (Bengals), Ivy (Browns), and Holmes (Redskins) round out our scrappy secondary.

P: A.J. Trapasso - Any guy who takes aim for a $40 million video board in a preseason game, ESPECIALLY one bought by Jerry Jones, gets a spot on my team.

K: Brandon Coutu (Seahawks) - The 'Hawks kept this guy on their roster all season last year behind Olindo Mare in the hopes they could trade him. He has a hell of a leg and will get a shot from another team very soon.

Give Me the Numbers, Stat!

27-17, Ballers over the Raiders. Bear Pascoe has 78 yards rushing, 2 rushing touchdowns, 1 blocked field goal and 3 sacks. Jeff Garcia runs in for the other TD and throws the ball straight into the owner's box where Al Davis is sitting. Davis sues the NFL.

Next week at this time, we will be through the first weekend of meaningful football. Imagine...four quarters without any fourth-stringers (God willing). The season of excessive penalty-calling is over. Let the games begin. We'll see you back here on Tuesday--with nary a mention of any battles for the backup long snapper position.

Poll

Can this team I have constructed beat the Raiders today, on a neutral field, with a run-heavy offensive philosophy behind the Iron Man Bear Pascoe?

Yes, handily

164 votes

Maybe 51 times out of 100

142 votes

Maybe once in a 100 tries

51 votes

Not a chance

42 votes

399 votes | Poll has closed

Predicting the Cincinnati Bengals' 53-man roster. A look into the minds of CincyJungle writers

Kirkendall — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 14:05:53 -0000

On Friday, Josh (Kirkendall), Craig (A Pragmatic Bengals Fan), Chris (IFChris) and Jake (jsl413) sat in a room and decided to take on the task filling out the 53-man roster. While initially our intended goal was based on prediction, we also set the roster with players that we think makes the team stronger. For example, our more radical idea that might not be on the mind of the Bengals brass, is to take four running backs, two fullbacks and only two tight ends. We thought that keeping four good running backs and two good full backs would make the team far more stronger than simply adding a third tight end that's currently on the roster; or some tight end that another team released. Even if Dorsey is the fourth running back, he's a strong contributor on special teams. So he makes the team stronger, in our minds. Anyway.

Let's get right to it. Here's our 53-man roster.

Quarterback (3)	Carson Palmer	Defensive End (4)	Antwan Odom
	J.T. O'Sullivan		Robert Geathers
	Jordan Palmer		Michael Johnson
			Jonathan Fanene
Running back (4)	Cedric Benson
	Bernard Scott	Defensive Tackle (4)	Pat Sims
	Brian Leonard		Domata Peko
	DeDe Dorsey		Tank Johnson
			Langston Moore
Fullbacks (2)	Jeremi Johnson
	Fui Vakapuna	Linebackers (7)	Keith Rivers
			Dhani Jones
Tight Ends (2)	Daniel Coats		Rey Maualuga
	Chase Coffman		Rashad Jeanty
			Brandon Johnson
Wide Receiver (6)	Chad Ochocinco		Abdul Hodge
	Laveranues Coles		Darryl Blackstock
	Chris Henry
	Andre Caldwell	Secondary (9)	Johnathan Joseph
	Jerome Simpson		Leon Hall
	Quan Cosby		Chris Crocker
			Chinedum Ndukwe
Offensive Line (9)	Andrew Whitworth		Roy Williams
	Bobbie Williams		Kyries Hebert
	Nate Livings		Tom Nelson
	Kyle Cook		Morgan Trent
	Anthony Collins		David Jones
	Andre Smith
	Scott Kooistra	Special Teams (3)	Shayne Graham
	Jonathan Luigs		Kevin Huber
	Dennis Roland		Brad St. Louis

There's several notable players missing. For example, after some debate, we elected to keep Jason Shirley off the roster, thinking he could be a Marvin Lewis project; which could force him on the practice squad if he clears waivers. In our minds, he's just not ready yet. Marvin White missed the cut; not because of anything he did, but we felt others were surpassing him. However, we shouldn't be surprised if he makes the team. Antonio Chatman's history is too much for a roster spot and a debate broke out between keeping Cosby and Maurice Purify. And we all loved Dan Stuka.

Stay with us all day as we analyze the team's roster cuts as they come through.

Here's a transcript of our entire conversation, or round table, that shows how we came to the conclusion on our 53-man roster.

TRANSCRIPT

Josh Kirkendall: We have 75 players and 53 spots. So by the end of the day, we'll be eliminating 22 players. I know you guys agree that quarterback is relatively easy enough. So let's get to the meat and potatoes of the topic. Running back.
Craig: Wow, diving right in.
Jake: Well running back, to me, is going to be Cedric Benson, Brian Leonard, and Bernard Scott. Just a question of if they keep four. They will want to protect Scott, and they went out and traded for Leonard, so they must see something in him
Craig: I agree with Jake, but not on the order. I think it'll be Benson, Scott, and Leonard. If they keep 4, obviously DeDe Dorsey will stick. Odd man out is James Johnson.
Jake: I honestly think we'll see Scott/Leonard split 2nd string duties. They're both pretty good.
Josh: I agree. I think Cedric and Scott are locks. And Scott and Dorsey have the same skillset. So if the team goes with three running backs, then Dorsey is the odd man out. However, if they go four, then do the Bengals only keep Jeremi Johnson at full back? Many, including the coaches, have high praise with Chris Pressley.
Jake: I don't think they'll risk just keeping Johnson at FB. If they do, they'll definitely put Pressley on the practice squad.
Josh: Last year, the Bengals took three running backs and 2 fullbacks.
Craig: As much as I like Vakapuna's ceiling, you can't let go of a guy who bent a friggin' facemask. Pressley has to stay if at all possible.
Josh: Do you think there's a chance that they keep Johnson and Vakapuna, but put Pressley on the practice squad. In terms of exposure, or notoriety, more people recognize Vakapuna's name more than Pressley's.
Craig: I think Hard Knocks may make it tough to sneak Pressley through to the PS, honestly.
Josh: Good point.

(Chris wakes from his slumber)

Chris: So is Kenny Watson done?
Jake: He was cut a while ago.
Chris: (sigh)
Josh: If the Bengals go four running backs, then who is the fullback?
Chris: Fui
Craig: I think, unfortunate as it is, that JJ is the first FB on the roster. Redeemer and all.
Jake: I think Jeremi Johnson is completely capable as long as he keeps in shape. He had a couple of excellent seasons, remember.
Josh: I agree there. JJ makes the squad as the starting fullback.
Chris: From the limited stuff I've seen, I like what Fui brings.
Josh: Now, if the Bengals take three running backs, who is your backup fullback?
Craig: At this point, I think that Pressley is the second man on the roster. The coaches in the meetings said, point blank, that Pressley is the best blocker.
Josh: You've seen on Hard Knocks how much the coaches play his tough style. Didn't Mike Brown ask what a fullback does?
Chris: Wow
Jake: They love physicality. They want to compete with Baltimore and Pittsburgh.
Craig: That's why I hate Johnson being around. There's no reason to not keep Fui and Pressley around. Jake hits it on the head. Pressley gives them the best chance at pancaking the linebacking corps of the AFC North.
Chris: So who's the starter?
Craig: Johnson.
Chris: Gotcha
Josh: An interesting thought is keeping Johnson and Vakapuna and sneak Pressley through Waivers for the practice squad. How many squads are looking for a FB anyway? He might not be that well known. Though I think Craig is right about Hard Knocks documenting him so much. Damned Hard Knocks.

Josh: I had an interesting thought. What if the Bengals go with four running backs, two fullbacks and only two tight ends? And you know that Coats and Chase make the squad. It's a weakened position anyway and I don't expect signing someone that make us instantly better. Plus the offense has never really utilized the TE position.
Jake: When was the last time they carried only 2 tight ends?
Josh: Actually, they only kept two last year and in 2006.
Craig: That's actually a good though, Josh. I like that.
Jake: Interesting. Well, given how shallow it is, I guess two isn't a bad idea. They can use Andre Smith at a TE in goalline packages.
Craig: They can toss that around, if he ever gets in shape.
Chris: I was going more for fullback for Andre
Jake: No way a 350 pounder can play anywhere but on the line of scrimmage.
Craig: Again...did you see the fat guy waddle he was rocking in last week's Hard Knocks? Dude looked terrrrrible.
Josh: The thought is that you keep the running back and fullback position strong, while keeping TE status quo. The question at this point is who will be available after cut down day that the team could sign that would make the tight ends better. And does Foschi really make your squad better than, say, Dorsey and/or Pressley?
Craig: Absolutely not would be the answer to your question, Josh.
Jake: Does Pressley have the ability to learn TE?
Josh: Like a hybrid?
Jake: Yeah, like Coats. Except better.
Josh: I will make another prediction that Foschi makes the practice squad. Of the things he's shown, he's not bad. Needs some refinement; could he could be a decent third TE in this league.
Chris: I like the two tight ends and it keeps a space in off chance Utecht ever gets healthy. Which is doubtful
Josh: Utecht is out for the year. On IR.
Craig: I doubt we see him ever again.
Chris: Me too
Josh: That could depend on Coats.
Craig: I don't mind Coats, but I don't think anyone sees him as a long term answer to anything? Pressley wouldn't be a bad option as a RB/FB hybrid. How are his hands?
Josh: To be honest, I'm not sure. He didn't have a catch this preseason.
Chris: Coffman is obviously being groomed here.
Chris: Keep in mind, Kelly might be healthy next season too
Josh: I'm not sure he'll be back either. He's UFA after this year
Craig: I look for big things from Coffman, just not this year. Not early, anyway. I wouldn't mind seeing Kelly come back as a coach in some capacity.
Josh: Yea, he's a strong lockerroom presence. The team respects him alot.
Chris: If he still wants to play, I'd sign to a one-year at least
Craig: Absolutely.
Chris: Make him Chase's personal coach
Jake: Chase isn't going be anything like Kelly was though. He's not the blocking type. Although if he developed strength, that's something he could work on this year, that would be a bonus.
Josh: There's a lot of interesting thoughts here. But the question is, what do we do? Do we keep 3RB/2FB/3TE or 4 RB/1FB/3TB or 4RB/2FB/2TE? I like the latter. The 4RB/2FB/2TE.
Chris: The latter
Craig: I say 4/2/2. I think that's the best way to keep the most talent on the squad.
Jake: I'd say 4 2 2
Josh: Sweet.

Josh: So who is the second fullback? I favor Pressley. Though I believe the team will go with Vakapuna.
Craig: I really think its Pressley, which means we'll lose Fui.
Chris: If the staff says Pressley is the better blocker...
Craig: Although, check that; Mike Brown is in the equation. The coaches want Pressley, but I bet dollars to doughnuts that Mike goes with the draft pick.
Josh: I wouldn't doubt that.
Craig: So are we agreed on Vakapuna then, even reluctantly?
Chris: I want the best blocker
Josh: I'm honestly not sure.
Jake: I'd assume we keep the draft pick. Pressley to the practice squad.
Chris: Then yeah, the draft pick
Craig: If he makes it there
Josh: I think I favor Pressley, but I see the team taking Fui.
Chris: Fui is supposed to be a good pass-catcher

(Josh departs momentarily)

Craig: What are your guys' plans for the holiday weekend?
Chris: I cannot wait for tomorrow. College football overdose.
Jake: Party?
Craig: I know! I have a wedding to attend tomorrow, then I'll be at the Canfield Fair all day on Sunday. Performing in a big show Sunday night.
Chris: Yes, absolutely a party
Jake: All my friends are away.
Craig: It's all right, you'll have several college athletes to keep you company!
Chris: Beer and college football. That'll be all the friends we need.

Josh: I believe the top four wide receivers are set: Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles, Chris Henry, and Andre Caldwell. I think the team keeps Jerome Simpson simply because he was the team's second round pick last year. There are four wide receivers competing for that last spot. Now, do you guys believe Simpson makes the squad? If so, then who will be the sixth? I believe Quan Cosby makes it.
Jake: I think Simpson definitely makes it. He's flashed some skills.
Craig: It's down to Purify or Cosby for me if Simpson stays; which I think he does also.
Jake: I didn't see enough of the game last night to make the call if Cosby makes it
Craig: Cosby didn't do much if anything last night, but neither did Purify; if I recall correctly, anyway. Again, I missed the first half.
Chris: Simpson stays.
Josh: What about Antonio Chatman? He could be a Marvin Lewis favorite, making the squad by default. Purify's only advantage is that he has more receptions than Cosby. Cosby has none on offense, by the way.
Jake: How could Chatman possibly make it at this point?
Craig: Man. Forgot about Chatman, completely.
Josh: I don't see it either.
Craig: I think I agree. Chatman has to be out.
Jake: I mean, I guess I see that he's Marvin’s boy, but man, please, no.
Josh: Then you have Freddie Brown.
Chris: He can't stay over Cosby or Purify? Or won't I guess
Craig: Ocho, Coles, Henry, Caldwell, Simpson, Purify for Craig. Tom Nelson makes Cosby expendable/PS candidate.
Josh: They could justify that Chatman, when healthy, is the better receiver on offense. And to be honest, I would agree. However, the durability issue makes it impossible for me to keep.
Craig: I don't see Chatman outplaying Purify at this point. Not even close. Although, when healthy, yeah. I suppose.
Chris: Ocho, Coles, Henry, Simpson, Caldwell, Chatman
Josh: Wow. We're totally split on this one. I predict Cosby, only because of his punt return potential. Chris has Chatman, Craig has Purify and Jake just hates Chatman.
Chris: I have Chatman because he's Marvin's boy and has experience with the team.
Jake: I don't like any of the options at number six.
Josh: I honestly can see that, Chris.
Craig: I'd like to see Cosby stick, I really would. Maybe they practice squad Purify again if Chatman doesn't stick.
Jake: He hasn't played or practiced. No way Chatman makes it
Chris: Yeah, that's true too. If not Chatman, Cosby. But Purify is damn physical for his size.
Jake: Cosby has some good special teams utility, but I don't think he has enough to stick. Bernard Scott looked great in that kick return.
Craig: I just hate to see them maybe lose Purify. The guy's a beast physically.
Chris: That's true. More so than Cosby
Josh: So it's between Cosby and Purify. Let's take a vote.
Chris: I'm changing my vote again
Craig: He made Roy Williams look like a fool in the Oklahoma.
Chris: Damn persuasive up in here
Josh: That was embarrassing as hell for Roy.
Craig: That said, first punt return for touchdown in, what, five years?
Josh: Who was also trying to cop out of the drills with Coles.
Jake: Purify is my vote.
Chris: I voted for Cosby for punt return. But the Scott point made perfect sense.
Craig: I'm so glad I'm not making this decision for the team! Don't forget Tom Nelson's 44-yard return last week either.
Josh: Alright, Purify?
Craig: The more they're going to want to use Scott in the offense the less they're going to use him in the return game, remember.
Josh: Good point, Craig.
Chris: I hate that concept
Josh: I think Scott would be kickoff return anyway, not punt return.
Jake: If they keep four running backs, Scott won't get much playing time. We think they keep 4 RB, so Scott can return kicks and play on some third downs.
Josh: Dorsey could too.
Craig: Ah! Okay. Ocho. Coles. Henry. Caldwell. Simpson. Cosby. That's my final answer.
Josh: But the issue is punt return; Scott hasn't returned a punt yet. Cosby, in the preseason, returned seven punts and Nelson got six.
Craig: Purify to the practice squad for the second year running.
Chris: I’m back on Cosby again
Josh: OK, time for final vote.
Chris: Cosby
Craig: Cosby
Jake: I think Cosby will make it. Sorry. I want Purify.
Josh: I can see why. You're right. He is a beast.
Craig: I'd be okay with Cosby, really. We have enough talent on offense that I think the 6th WR has to contribute in other ways anyway, so Cosby is the better call the more I think about it.
Josh: I just think that Cosby brings more immediate contributions. Purify isn't a returner and I highly doubt he gets any playing time with Chad, Coles, Henry and Caldwell in front.

Josh: In 2006 and 2008, the Bengals took nine offensive linemen. In 2007, they kept eight. We can assume they're keeping Andre Whitworth, Bobbie Williams, Kyle Cook, Nate Livings, Anthony Collins, Andre Smith, Jonathan Luigs and Scott Kooistra. So we're left with one spot left.
Jake: Jason Shirley
Josh: OK, there's two thoughts here. We could go with eight and be done.
Craig: Well, if we do keep nine including Shirley or someone else, which position is left to suffer?
Josh: The issue with a ninth is that we could be cutting into the defensive roster -- which might not be a bad idea because they seem like the stronger of the two units.
Chris: Or keep eight and keep Purify. But yeah, I see the point about not hurting the defense as bad
Josh: And I disagree with Shirley. While he's literally throwing guys when blocking, I just don't think he's ready to make the roster. He's the typical Marvin Lewis project guy. I think he's still eligible for the practice squad. I think Dennis Roland has a better shot.
Chris: "literally throwing guys when blocking" Is a hard talent to ignore, even if he is a little raw.
Craig: Shirley should be eligible for the practice squad, but I'd bet good money that we'd lose him in the process, especially with him being such a mauler at guard.
Josh: I agree, Chris. That's why I think they'll hope he clears waivers. It wasn't so long ago that Marvin Lewis said flatly on Hard Knocks that Shirley's last chance to make the squad at all was to convert to the offense. In reality, the question is do you want to keep a fourth guard, or a fourth tackle.
Craig: Fourth tackle, for my money. How are we looking at Andre Smith in this equation? Are we actually talking about a fifth tackle?
Josh: That's why I think Roland's the better choice right now. Think of it this way. If Smith doesn't return soon, and god forbid, Whitworth or Collins goes down, we're out of tackles.
Chris: I need a beer
Josh: Sure, Kooistra can play the position, but he's been working mostly guard too.
Craig: I agree with you, Josh. Roland is the smart choice here.
Josh: For now at least. If Shirley passes waivers and I believe he will, and then he's signed to the practice squad, that would be the best scenario for him.
Craig: I'm cool with that. I might be overestimating, but I do worry that he won't clear waivers.
Josh: We also have Evan Mathis and Andrew Crummey. Think those two have a shot?
Craig: I'd say Mathis more than Crummey.
Josh: Alright, full vote. Between Roland and Shirley.
Chris: Roland
Craig: 2. Reluctantly.
Jake: Humph. Roland, I guess. I'd like Shirley.
Josh: I think we all would, to be honest.
Chris: Yep. Tackle will win out, however
Josh: Alright. The offense is set. SWEET!

Craig: Sidebar: Any kind of wishing we could keep Swank?
Josh: He proved that franchising Graham was kind of redonkulous. I love that word.
Jake: Swank hasn't been that impressive. But he made what Josh said true
Craig: Makes me think of Koothrapali in Big Bang Theory.

Josh: Now, historically, the Bengals have taken eight defensive linemen. Mostly it's four defensive ends and four defensive tackles. Here's what I think are locks; Antwan Odom, Robert Geathers, Michael Johnson, Pat Sims, Tank Johnson and Domata Peko. That leaves two guys.
Craig: Rucker should be in the equation probably.
Josh: Well, you got Fanene and Rucker at defensive end. Harrington too.
Craig: Right, Fanene and Harrington the tight end.
Josh: Then you have Clinton McDonald, Langston Moore and Vernell Jenkins at DT.
Chris: I'm voting Jenkins. And you all already know that
Josh: A little UK love?
Jake: Moore's gotta make it.
Craig: Moore is a good pick too.
Chris: Absolutely
Craig: So we really need one end and one tackle. Rucker and Moore?
Josh: I think Moore is the more likely pick. Does that leave McDonald on the practice squad? As for Rucker, I think Fanene beats him out. And the only reason I say that is Rucker's durability. He has none.
Chris: True
Craig: Yeah, you're right. For some reason I always forget about Fanene.
Jake: Might be hard to deny Rucker a spot though, he has quite a bit of talent and has played well.
Craig: He's one of those guys that's just solid and makes plays.
Josh: In three seasons, Rucker has only played 16 games.
Chris: Sterling
Craig: Ouch.
Josh: I like Rucker too. I mean, the dude will catch on with easily another team.
Chris: And be healthy
Craig: And be a perennial All-Pro and eventual HoF inductee.
Chris: You got it
Josh: Cincinnati karma.
Jake: Fanene has been pretty solid though when he gets playing time.
Craig: I like Fanene for his DE/DT versatility. Similar to Bryan Robinson in that regard.
Josh: Fanene has only missed two games in the past two seasons, though he hasn't been flashy. I like his versatility too.
Craig: I think this team is at the point where they need to (at least on the defensive side of the ball) put guys in place who make plays, not guys who might make plays. This defensive unit is CLOSE.
So for his solid play and durability/versatility, my vote goes to Fanene I think.
Josh: I agree. And if Rucker stays healthy, he fits that bill. But you have to depend on the guy too.
Craig: Right. That was my primary point.
Josh: On the other hand, Harrington has two sacks this preseason.
Craig: Yeah. Crap.
Chris: That's big
Josh: Decisions, decisions, decisions.
Craig: What string was he playing against?
Josh: Not much against the first team. Not really sure if he had many first half snaps.
Craig: So that's in the equation too, kind of, sorta.
Josh: Agreed. So the question between Rucker and Fanene is health. Harrington, if he passes waivers, can be ~~the team's starting tight end and~~ join the practice squad.
Craig: So Rucker=out. Another third round pick down the tubes (3rd?). Guys? Fanene or Harrington? All considered I think it has to be Fanene.
Josh : I'm picking Fanene, only because of the question about Rucker's health.
Chris: Didn't we establish Mike Brown likes draft picks?
Craig: lol @ the TE comment. That'll never get old.
Josh: I've cried every night in my sleep after that.
Craig: So we agree that WE want Fanene. Thoughts on what will actually happen?
Josh: I actually think it'll be Fanene. He's on his second contract right now anyway. So you know the team likes him, and Jake is right, Fanene is solid.
Craig: I'm good with that, Josh.
Jake: I think Fanene will stick.
Josh : So we went with Langston Moore and Jonathan Fanene.

Josh: In respect to linebackers, the Bengals took eight in 2006, seven in 2007, and six in 2008. The locks, I think, are Keith Rivers, Dhani Jones, Rey Maualuga, Rashad Jeanty and Brandon Johnson.
Craig: Yep.
Josh: I really liked Hodge during preseason and he's a special teams contributor. I think he backs up Dhani.
Jake: Hodge absolutely sticks. Simmons will be sure of it.
Craig: Right.
Chris: That's six.
Craig: So. Maxwell? In or out?
Jake: I dunno about Maxwell.
Josh: I think Blackstock makes it, if for any reason, he can play defensive end also.
Craig: I was going to say I think Blackstock sticks. His career-ending hit on Utecht has to count for something other than wasting another of my Bengals jerseys.
Josh: Then you have Dan Stuka.
Chris: I vote for him on name alone. That's just a badass name
Craig: We need to bring back Bjork.
Jake: Reminds me too much of Ditka
Josh: There's another issue we need to consider. Do we just keep six backers and 10 in the secondary? Or seven backers and 9 in the secondary.
Craig: Got to be 7 and 9, I think.
Chris: "What's your name, punk?" "Dan STUKA." "Oh, damn. Don't mess w/that guy." "Damn right.
Chris: I'm sorry
Josh: It's a sweet football name. Then the seventh linebacker has to be Blackstock.
Craig: Absolutely. Blackstock at #7 backer.
Chris: Yes, Blackstock
Josh: Alright, we'll go with Blackstock.

Craig: So we're on to the secondary then?
Josh : Now this will be the toughest one of the night -- and the last.
Craig: Josh, locks?
Chris: (whispers) Dan Stuka will be watching us. Remember that.
Josh: I got Johnathan Joseph, Leon Hall, Chris Crocker, Chinedum Ndukwe and Roy Williams. Now, I think Tom Nelson is a close lock -- like most everyone else, I loved his play.
Craig: Hall, Joseph, Jones, Crocker, Ndukwe, Williams, Nelson would be my locks. Personally.
Josh: I agree, so Nelson makes the team?
Chris: Who's that kid that made that huge sack against the Pats?
Craig: I don't see how he can't make the team. The guy's a beast.
Josh: Chris likes Nelson too.
Chris: Yeah, him
Craig: Nelson brings versatility as I think he could be a nickel corner also.
Chris: He's certainly got the speed for nickel
Josh: I question David Jones. Is the talent in the secondary deep enough? Is Jones worth keeping, though he didn't make any preseason games?
Craig: It depends on how confident they are with either trying Nelson there or Geoff Pope.
Josh: No thanks on Pope.
Craig: Just sayin'.
Josh: Kyries Hebert is another I like that doesn't much notice, because his strength is his special teams play.
Craig: I'm glad Fletcher is already gone so we don't have to factor him in.
Josh: No doubt
Craig: Yeah, Hebert's got to stay. Led in teams tackles last year, didn't he?
Josh: Yea. We're up to seven. What about Morgan Trent? We need to start looking at cornerbacks. We've listed five safeties already.
Craig: Okay. I think Trent sticks.
Josh: Trent makes the team. You agree?
Chris: Absolutely. Haven't seen much, but what I've read.
Josh : He hasn't been bad.
Craig: So one more. Lynch? That's another safety so maybe Lynch goes.
Josh: I don't know. This is where I think David Jones squeezes in.
Craig: Yeah, more than likely.
Josh: You could also go Pope or Rico Murray.
Craig: Jones improved over last season. No. Jones is better than either of them. Practice squad Pope again, he may be ready next year.
Josh: Jones was placed on the depth chart as the third CB at the start of training camp. Do we reluctantly agree with Jones, or do you guys think we should go with six safeties and keep Lynch?
Craig: That probably depends on Nelson's cover skills.
Chris: Three cornerbacks?
Craig: I wouldn't mind keeping Lynch around, but we definitely need another corner.
Josh: What about Marvin White. We're completely excluding him.
Craig: I'm getting a headache.
Josh: We could swap out Hebert for White.
Craig: Crap, I didn't even realize that White wasn't on our list. I think that says enough about him, though. I think White goes.
Josh: Axe White?
Craig: How do you keep him over your number one special teams guy?
Josh: I'm just not sure where he'd fit in. It would be a numbers game. On the other hand, would the Bengals elect to keep White over Nelson?
Craig: A couple of years ago our special teams squad was decimated and it took over a year to shore it back up. I don't want to see that happen again.
Chris: Better not
Craig: White/Nelson. That's actually probably the best battle happening right now on defense.
Josh: Or, we could dump a running back for another guy in the secondary.
Craig: Dump Dorsey if we want to go that route.
Josh: Dump the oft-injured Dorsey for White. Now we're getting interesting.
Craig: For me? No question. None at all.
Chris: See ya
Craig: What will Mike Brown do, though?
Josh: Exactly.
Chris: Suck. That's what he'll do
Josh: I can see that.
Craig: Son of a gun. I'm stressing about this like we have any say in the matter right now, rubbing my temples and such.
Josh: LOL. We're on the last roster spot. Here's something else to consider. Dating back to 2006, the Bengals have always taken ten or more defensive backs.
Chris: STUKA. Sorry
Craig: So we're short unless we knock off Dorsey, which throws us back into the Dorsey/Leonard discussion. I really wish he hadn't have blocked/returned that punt.
Josh: In regards to Dorsey, I'm not sure if we should use a spot on him for blocking a punt. While it's nice, it's never a certainty. And with Dorsey's skillset, we have Scott.
Craig: I know that. You know that. Bratkowski talked on this week's Hard Knocks about him blocking the field goal two years ago.
Josh: Yea, it just goes to show how fickle the coaches are on the competition.
Craig: Right. I mean, I like a punt block and touchdown as much as the next guy, but...
Josh: On another note, think about it this time last year. You know who we were discussing? Perry, Watson, Dorsey. So you're starting to favor cutting Dorsey for a 10th defensive back?
Craig: Wow. What a difference a year makes. Yes. Yes, I am. Dorsey goes, White stays for me.
Chris: I don't see them dumping a four-year player for a 10th defensive back. Just sayin'
Josh: I think it's a valid point. Do you get rid of Dorsey, who played redonkulous this preseason, for sheer numbers in the secondary? Instead of White, we could keep Lynch. Or we could keep Pope However, here's another point. How much playing time do we really expect Dorsey to get with Cedric, Scott and Leonard in front of him.
Chris: What if Cedric goes back to sucking?
Craig: Dorsey is just going to get hurt. Again.
Chris: Maybe more than it would first seem.
Craig: Chris, that's when Scott takes over.
Chris: Every down?
Craig: Leonard will share. I'm not worried about Cedric, though.
Chris: I am.
Josh: Honestly, if Benson goes down, then I think Leonard becomes the feature back and then Dorsey would be the team's third-down back. And if Benson sucks, then Palmer throws for 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns. No problem.
Chris: Over Scott? Leonard.
Josh: I think Leonard has the build and style to be a feature back. Scott needs to be that change of pace guy. I would be surprised if he ever gets 15 carries this year.
Craig: LT, Josh?
Josh: You're comparing Scott to LT?
Craig: No. Just sayin'.
Chris: He's got mad skill
Josh: Hey, who knows what happens. I just don't think takes over a feature back role this year.
Craig: Okay. Does DeDe stay or go?
Chris: Stay.

Josh: Here's where we are. We have 52 players set now. We have only 9 defensive backs. The Bengals have historically taken 10 or more. We're thinking of freeing up a spot to give us a 10th, and we instinctively went right to DeDe.
Jake: I have company.
Craig: Nice.
Chris: Pics?
Josh: iPhone?

Josh: We're so close! One more... we... can... do... it... We just need to make a decision. Do we take someone out in favor of a 10th defensive back?
Craig: Okay. DeDe is long past practice squad-eligible, right? Not that it would matter, someone would snatch him up like the Colts did anyway.
Josh: You guys know that the Bengals coaches are right now talking about this.
Chris: I'm keeping Dorsey.

Hard Knocks IV: Cutdown day looms

Kirkendall — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 03:18:58 -0000

The upcoming cutdown day took front and center with several players. Antonio Chatman, Chris Pressley, DeDe Dorsey and Brian Leonard had dinner, talking about it. Andrew Whitworth and his wife Melissa sat on the couch talking about losing friends. The battle between Brian Leonard, DeDe Dorsey and Bernard Scott at running back. The battle of Corey Lynch and Tom Nelson, who took a carriage ride downtown, at safety. Then there's Chris Pressley and Fui Vakapuna at fullback; which with this episode made you think that the Bengals are definitely going with two fullbacks. You get the feeling that Chris Pressley will make the team, based on the impression that the coach's favor his physical play. During one practice, Pressley had to have his busted facemask replaced. We still haven't gotten to the part where Muhammad Ali joined the Bengals during Training Camp in Georgetown College.

Funny moments.

Pulling into the garage underneath Paul Brown stadium, Marvin Lewis couldn't pull in because the gate was broken; or at least not responding to the proxy card. So he jumped the curb and got in, laughing his unique laugh.
Chad Ochocinco chatted with his girlfriend, who said that Chad faked being in a wheelchair to get a seat next to her. He then faked that he needed to use her cell phone, and put his number in it. Brilliant!
Jordan Palmer promoted his site, runpee.com, which points out times during a movie in which you can go to the bathroom.

Good Moments

Bobbie Williams helped Jason Shirley on the sidelines during practice, who was absolutely obliterating guys against the St. Louis Rams.
Mike Zimmer told Tank Johnson, who called Bill Walsh Donnie, that the only thing that could bring Johnson down is himself.
The team's clubhouse assistant, James Brown, was profiled momentarily. The players and coaches love him. And before each game, Brown leads them onto the field.
During the same game, Carson Palmer pulled Bernard Scott aside, telling him not to worry about the fumble. All that matters, he said, is how you respond.
He gave the same advise to Jordan, who threw an interception on a pass intended for Chris Henry.
While not really a good moment, it was actually nice to see Marvin Lewis talk to a guy that was waived from the team. In this case, he sat with defensive tackle Pernell Phillips, advising him to keep working and maybe another team will pick him up; or the Bengals could sign him to the practice squad.
Tank and Roy Williams went to the Reds game with the Los Angeles Dodgers in town, and got a chance to speak with Joe Torre.
Marvin Lewis advised the team (aka Chad Ochocinco) about Twittering.

Oh Boy moments

Do you get the feeling that when the players enter the lockerroom, that they nervously walk past Jim Lippincott, who leans against the wall waiting for the players he has to tell is getting waived?
The relationship and conversation between Katie Blackburn and Alvin Keels presents the most awkward moments of the show.
I don't hate Mike Brown as a man or anything other than an NFL owner. But when he's on the show, I just bury my head.
Replayed the game against the Rams, which ended with Augustus Parrish's disastrous attempt at blocking a guy who would eventually sack Jordan Palmer, who fumbled the ball. Game over.
The show ended with Andre Smith's signing and subsequent broken foot.

Game Rewind: The offensive line still lacks adjustments, but are very close

Kirkendall — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 16:13:45 -0000

Some in Cincinnati, not on this site, have opined that Thursday night's win over the New England Patriots was boring. A win shouldn't ever be boring, preseason or not. Second of all, preseason isn't about thrilling chucking bombs to wide receivers making one-handed diving catches; it's mostly coaches learning their personnel in game conditions. Such as how far can Chad Ochocinco kick the football on kickoff? Finally, while the game wasn't a dramatic high-scoring affair, it was an exciting defensive effort (isn't that one of the all-time complaints about the Bengals since Marvin Lewis took over?) and at any moment, either team could take the lead and win the game. That's what a competitive game is all about; a far cry from the three game stretch against the Ravens, Texans and Steelers in 2008 when the Bengals were outscored by 80 points. Now that is boring. And depressing. And aggravating.

Aside from the actual game, there were noteworthy items with individual performances that my colleagues have pointed out. Here is a cliff notes version of the defense. Pat Sims, in my opinion, is very close to being a very good defensive tackle; not just on this team, but in the league. If you sit back and actually watch Rashad Jeanty, the quietest linebacker on the team, he makes plays. And when he doesn't make plays, it seems like it's always more noticeable. However, it will be damned near impossible to keep Rey Maualuga from starting by the end of the year. Dhani Jones struggled to chip off blocks. Keith Rivers has unlimited potential and my only remark for his speed, aggression and strength is, wow. He has Pro Bowl potential. I didn't document Chase Coffman, thinking we'll see him on Hard Knocks anyway.

It's easy enough to understand how a game unfolds when you track the critical plays; like turnovers, touchdowns, time of possession, third down efficiency. A majority of the game is an uneventful mesh of 3-4 yard gains (or losses), field position, change of possession, first downs and commercial breaks. While uneventful, they set the critical plays that determine games, most of which, surprisingly, turns out to be luck or ingenious playcalling, as well as talent and overall skill.

All that aside, I still believe that the storyline is how the offensive line rebounds after 2008. The return of Carson Palmer, Keith Rivers, Chad Ochocinco, the amazing story of a reborn Chris Henry and the offseason acquisitions of Rey Maualuga, Michael Johnson, Tank Johnson and Roy Williams are close seconds. None of which holds the importance that the Bengals offensive line does. Furthermore, three guys are new; one changed positions. Furthermore part two, Reggie Kelly is out for the year and the line certainly becomes all the more critical.

It's no secret that New England's defense mixes schemes. However, head coach Bill Belichick is notorious for not showing too much during the preseason to save their best for the regular season, so opponents don't gain too much intelligence. In truth, the Patriots played a very bland defense, mixing basic 4-3 and 3-4 formations. They stacked the line several times using 4-4 and 6-2 formations, lining up the safety in the linebacker zones. However, the one criticism with this offensive line, which we noted last week, isn't so much talent, or being outperformed. It's the inability to adapt during the play and to correctly point out the blitz.

A perfect example, with 12:49 left in the first quarter, the Bengals line up at their own 24-yard line on second-and-21. The call is a play-action with Nate Livings pulling from left to right. Bobbie Williams, Anthony Collins and Daniel Coats all blocked down, neutralizing the defensive end and tackle, who were stunting in.

Focusing on the outside linebacker sprinting up field, Collins and Benson converged on the outside linebacker, which indirectly opened a massive gap on the line for any delayed blitz, shown in this figure.

Livings didn't acknowledge the possibility of a delayed blitz and worked with Benson to make sure the outside linebacker stayed down. Hell, he didn't even look back at the line of scrimmage. As a result, Mayo got the sack and the Bengals lost six yards.

On first-and-ten at their own 38-yard line, the Bengals took the first snap of their second possession with 4:09 left in the first quarter. New England lined up with a six-man front, using a base 4-3 with both outside linebackers on the edges and a safety moving up to put eight-man in the box.

The Bengals nearly made the blocks. Cook, Livings and Whitworth neutralized the left side while Bobbie Williams was assigned Vince Wilfork. Instead of taking him on, Bobbie Williams moved into the second level, allowing Wilfork to go unblocked at the line of scrimmage. We have to believe that this was just miscommunication. Perhaps Williams let Wilfork go believing that Jeremi Johnson would pick him up, or Cook, Livings and Whitworth were supposed to slide to their right. Instead Wilfork had an open shot at Benson, hitting him at the line of scrimmage for no gain.

Williams had a rough go of it. With 3:12 left in the second quarter, the Bengals line up at New England's 17-yard line on first and ten. Williams missed the block on #92 Ron Brace, who encountered Bernard Scott in the backfield. Scott sidestepped the tackle.

Fui Vakapuna, who lined up in the slot and motioned left, stopping behind Bobbie Williams in an off-set I formation, disregarded Brace and attempted to block linebacker Tedy Bruschi. The veteran linebacker sidestepped Vakapuna's block, who clearly lost his balance falling over. Along with safety Pat Chung, Bruschi assisted on the tackle for a one-yard loss.

There are times, however, that the unbelievable is required. For the second week in a row, Andre Caldwell was asked to block either an outside linebacker or a defensive end with unproductive results. Against New Orleans, Caldwell made a diving attempt, trying to block the outside linebacker that eventually crushed Carson Palmer in the endzone just as the quarterback released the football.

On Thursday, the Bengals lined up first-and-twenty at their own 25-yard line with 13:26 left in the first. The play was designed to go up the middle. Cook, Williams and Collins made their blocks. Livings pulled left to right, in Power-O style, and neutralized the strong-side linebacker. It was the right defensive end (or four-point linebacker... we can never tell with New England) that made the play. Andre Caldwell was in motion, slowing one step behind and outside Whitworth. Caldwell didn't have a chance and the defensive end dropped Benson one-yard behind the line of scrimmage.

I think it's important to point out that the second sack on O'Sullivan and first sack on Jordan Palmer shouldn't be filed as offensive line issues -- I would simplify slightly calling them an issue with protection schemes. On the second sack, the Bengals decided to go for in on fourth down, with seven yards to go, at New England's 27-yard line with 14:52 left in the second quarter. The Bengals lined up with five wide receivers, while New England put four on the line with three linebackers -- the third linebacker on the strong-side (where three wide receivers lined up), roaming like a safety. The Patriots called a Cover Four -- where four defensive backs cover the four quarters of the field. Sending the middle linebacker between Livings and Whitworth, naturally opened a gap due to blocking assignments on a defensive tackle and defensive end respectively. Cook blocked towards the weak-side, helping Williams while Collins blocked the defensive end out.

You'll observe that the only correction that could be made is that Cook blocks to the left, allowing Livings to chip off on the blitzing linebacker. Since the Patriots brought five, the Bengals, who were blocking well enough, would have prevented the sack and allowed O'Sullivan the additional time to find something down field. However, that's one of those things where hindsight is always 20/20. In truth, the weak-side linebacker showed blitz and with the potential of six defensive players coming, there's just no way you can block six guys with only five linemen. The best protection would have been to keep a guy in; most likely Coats as a blocking tight end or an H-back, like Reggie Kelly.

On the sack against Jordan Palmer with 6:59 left in the second quarter, the linebacker blitzed on the left (from the offense's point of view), overloading the Bengals left. In other words, there just wasn't a man to block him, very similar to the defensive call that sacked O'Sullivan the second time. Jordan stepped up in the pocket, forcing the linebacker to miss. Unfortunately, as he stepped up, #76-S.Williams shed off Livings' block and Palmer didn't have a chance.

Where adaptability might be a serious weakness with this team, toughness is in good supply. With 1:10 left in the first quarter, the Bengals line-up with three yards to go on third down at the New England 34-yard line. The call was a handoff to Benson between Livings and Whitworth on the left. The defensive end was no trouble; Whitworth made sure of that blocking him out. The point of attack required a double-team on the right defensive tackle (left defensive tackle from the Bengals' point of view). Livings and Cook were tasked with that. Cook chipped off a second later, picking up the right inside linebacker. The play eventually broke down when the RDT broke off Livings block making initial contact with Benson around the line of scrimmage. Luckily, Benson lowered his shoulder in time, generating enough momentum to pick up four yards and the first down.

I certainly don't want to disregard the most critical play of the game. It's very simple. When everyone makes the block, when the quarterback makes the throw and the receivers run the best routes, the Bengals are as efficient as anyone else in the National Football League. It's basic fundamentals. The point is that the offense is close. They have the talent to do this, which wasn't the case last year. It should be pointed out that this offense can't make mistakes, at all. They have to be perfect in order to succeed -- something better offenses can get away with.

The team's lone touchdown was a mixture of all eleven men doing their job, great play-calling and sheer luck. It's the two minute warning at the New England 24-yard line. The situation is fourth-and-17. The Bengals line up with two receivers on the right, Chris Henry on the left and Jeremi Johnson and Daniel Coats flanking J.T. O'Sullivan in shotgun. The Patriots ran a standard four-man front with five defensive backs.

New England brings eight; four down linemen, two linebackers and two safeties. Along with the offensive line, Jeremi Johnson and Daniel Coats, the protection easily neutralized the eight man blitz. One broke free well after the three seconds O'Sullivan needed to complete the pass to Henry, running a seam route down the left hashmark.

The Bengals won the game because New England blitzed on fourth down in which Cincinnati needed 16 yards for the first. One would argue that a prevent zone defense would better serve New England because historically, and statistically, when blitzing eight guys, you allow the offense substantially better opportunities for bigger plays, such as 17-yard touchdown passes. High risk, high reward. In as much no one will want to acknowledge, offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski called the perfect play, anticipating the blitz and calling for the best wide receiver, statistically in the NFL during the preseason, to go vertical.

I still believe this offensive line is very close. The issue isn't that they're being overpowered. It isn't being beaten man-on-man. The first team offensive line just isn't adjusting as quickly as you'd like, allowing rather mundane blitzing schemes to work. It's something that can be fixed, easily. Once that happens, I believe the protection will be solid and that the rushing offense, along with Cedric Benson, will vastly improve on their 30th ranked yards-per-rush average.

Depth of the 2009 Cincinnati Bengals Part 1: Offense

jsl413 — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 23:36:51 -0000

More photos » by Charles Krupa - AP

These guys are backups. One of them is really good, the other is not Carson Palmer. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

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Last night, we learned that the Bengals have excellent depth at the placekicking position in the form of Chad (Ochocinco) Johnson. Reviews from the media and around the league (except Skip Bayless) seem to approve of Johnson's kick. Jets Kicker Jay Feely gave Chad a 80/85 grade for his extra point from a technical point of view, saying "the only thing form wrong that he did technically is that he followed through too much, and his hips opened up... but, I mean, he got good elevation... and I was just as impressed with his kickoff! I think Skip as mad though because I think he kicked better than Skip could kick."

Feely also gave him an 85/85 for his kickoff. It's safe to say Feely is an Ochocinco fan. Speaking of Chad, Mark Schlereth just mentioned on SportsCenter's Fantasy Draft special that he thinks we'll see our star #1 WR recover to his previous form.

Moving on to the meat of this post, I contend that the Bengals are deeper across the board this year than we've seen in quite some time. Let's go position by position down the depth chart to determine how resilient our team will be as we sfight through inevitable NFL injuries this year.

Quarterback: Carson Palmer is obviously the key to making the Bengals go this year. Without Palmer, Cincinnati will not win that many games. But this year, I'm more comfortable with J.T. O'Sullivan than I was with he who must not be named from Harvard last year. So far this preseason, he's shown the ability to complete passes for more than 3 yards, as evidenced by beautiful throws last night to Chris Henry and Jerome Simpson (there was no pass interference) down the field. If Carson goes down, God forbid, we might not lose as much as we did last year.

Running Back: Running back this year is the first interesting position I'll touch on. Cedrick Benson comes into this season as the undisputed starter. But I don't think he'll get feature back carries, especially if he continues to rely on quickness and agility rather than downhill power running for which he is reputed. Given this trend, which was especially apparent last night, I think Brian Leonard is a definitive lock (he was anyway) to make the team and may steal some goal line carries.

Bengals.com lists DeDe Dorsey at #3, and he is no longer eligible for the practice squad. Dorsey is an injury liability, but has shown explosiveness nearly every time he's taken the field in orange and black.

That leaves Bernard Scott, James Johnson, and Marlon Lucky as the odd men out. Lucky is the first cut here, as far as I can tell. He's gotten only 2 touches this preseason, and must not be ready to go if he's getting that little playing time. In extremely limited time, James Johnson has looked decent, but I doubt he makes the team either.

If the Bengals carry 4 tailbacks, I'd assume they keep Scott since they burned a pick on him and his ceiling is so high. The biggest problem I've noticed with him is slow recognition and decision making this preseason. Last night, he missed a couple of holes as he stood around behind the line of scrimmage while he tried to figure out which way to go. When he does hit the hole though, Scott is quick and elusive, and is a big home run threat.

Really, though, no matter which backs the Bengals keep, this will be a deep position in 2009. There is talent all the way down the line. Of course, tailback success is largely dependant on the men pushing each other around in the trenches.

Fullback: On Hard Knocks, we saw running backs coach Jim Anderson reveal that, essentially, our fullback competition is tight this year. The Bengals.com depth chart lists Jeremy Johnson first, Fui Vakapuna second, and Chris Pressley third.

I have to imagine that Johnson makes the team if he continues to keep his work ethic up. He helped Rudi Johnson to a franchise record setting seasons in 2004 and 2005 and is a veteran of the system. But, the coaches have been really high on Vakapuna and Pressley.

I wouldn't be surprised if two of these guys make the team and the other is put on the practice squad. I'd almost expect the Bengals to try to maintain some sort of control over these guys this year as an insurance policy.

Tackle: The Bengals have at least insurance-level depth at both tackle positions this year, assuming Andre Smith at some point signs a contract. Dennis Roland has played well this preseason, indicating that he will be serviceable in an emergency substitution.

The front-runners, though, have looked pretty damn good for the most part. Andrew Whitworth and Anthony Collins have emerged as above-average offensive tackles. I doubt that either of them are Pro Bowl talents, however.

Andre Smith, if he signs, will get playing time this year. His talent indicates that he'll be a mainstay at tackle for years to come, but he is a rookie this year and I believe he would be only a marginal improvement over Collins, who has been present for camp. Regardless, we've got 3 starting quality tackles on this team right now as far as I am concerned.

Guard: The shallowest position on the offense, Bobbie Williams will have to stay healthy this year or the guards may be a sorry bunch. Nate Livings has played, for the most part, well so far in the preseason. But he will have his hands full with the Casey Hamptons of the AFCN. Scott Kooistra is not the worst back up the team could have, but there's a reason the now 7-year veteran is riding pine and Nate Livings, who was impressive at the end of last season let's not forget, is starting. The starters really need to stay healthy here.

Center: Bengals fans know the importance of quality center play in unifying and leading an offensive line. This year, the unit is slightly more veteran, despite some guys getting their first pro starts, these are men that have been in the league. The unit should benefit from the emergence of Kyle Cook, who looked great against the quality NT Vince Wilfork last night, winning the initial "push" battle about 3/4 of the time in the early going yesterday. The O-Line wasn't great at picking up blitzes consistently, but I expect that is something that will improve when Carson returns to the lineup.

The great thing this year is that we have a legitimate backup in center-of-the-future Jonathan Luigs. Luigs' college record at the center position is excellent. If Cook goes down, there just isn't a huge fall-off when we get to Luigs, whose skill set projects him to be a consistent but not quite dominant offensive centerpiece.

Wide Receiver: The deepest position on the offense is unquestionable the wide receiving corps this year. Antonio Chatman is currently listed as the 6th WR on the depth chart, and for a guy that was the #3 last year to be not making the team, that tells you something about the men that have stepped up and look great so far in preseason play.

Chad Johnson has, so far, looked like the Pro Bowl receiver we've been used to the past almost-decade. Chris Henry looks like he has accepted that wide receivers have to fight for some catches, and has looked good over the middle and over the top, too. You know what you get with Laveranues Coles, a solid guy who might get hurt but will be willing to go over the middle.

Young guys Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson are pretty good friends, and continue to develop in the wings. Chad won't last forever, and Coles is on the downside of his career at this point. Behind these "big 5", which I'd contend are one of the best 5-WR units in the league, Freddie Brown, Maurice Purify, and Quan Crosby should battle for a roster spot. Very deep position this year.

Tight End: This position looked a lot better when Reggie Kelly was healthy. But even without him, I think we're OK at TE. Ben Utecht and Chase Coffman both offer superb receiving potential for Carson Palmer this year, which we haven't had since he was drafted. Hopefully Daniel Coats steps into Kelly's shoes and has a good showing as the primary blocking Tight End this year.

What are your thoughts on the backups this year? Is there anyone I'm forgetting that has been impressive in the preseason?

Hard Knocks Episode Two: Barbershop talking shop and Palmer's hand smells

Kirkendall — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 03:34:37 -0000

The second showing of Hard Knocks, while not as controversial, was just as good. The episode started in a barbershop, with two older men chatting about the Bengals and specifically Carson Palmer, which was the show's primary focus for the first segment. Palmer joked with center Kyle Cook, jabbing that his hand wrecked after practice. We learned of Palmer's joking (we think) obsession with the proper gatorade to water ratio. For the most part, the show counted down until the team's first preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. It featured the fullbacks again, starting safety competition and briefly centered around Palmer and his interaction, most of which displayed light-hearted humor, with his teammates.

Lewis referred to running backs coach Jim Anderson about which fullback to start, who said Jeremi Johnson and both coaches agreed to play Fui Vakapuna in the third and Chris Pressley the rest of the way. Pressley, by and large, had a good showing while Jeremi Johnson had another less than desirable display. You get the feeling that the coaches are a bit too nostalgic with Johnson, knowing what he's capable of, rather than giving a fair shake on a guy like Pressley.

You got a better understanding with Tight Ends coach Jonathan Hayes relationship with Chase Coffman; Hayes played with Paul Coffman for two seasons in Kansas City in 1986 and 1987. Hayes has known Chase since he was a child and in turn. During one coaches meeting, Marvin said to Hayes that Chase gets beat around a bit; to which the old family friend and tight end coach told Lewis Chase's nickname: Crash Dummy.

Other things

The story about Corey Lynch meeting the family he saved on Father's Day was awesome. In case you don't remember, or don't know, on Father's Day, Lynch saved a woman's life in a nasty automobile accident. The family met Lynch at Georgetown and the safety hung out with the family for a time.
A segment dove into Chris Henry's continuing redemption story. Lewis got on Henry for his touchdown celebration against the Saints, while the coaches expressed being worried about Henry's propensity to celebrate anytime he does something good.
The blank look on Chad's face while Marvin Lewis is talking about investing his money was classic.
Tank Johnson, who asked during a security meeting if it's possible to change Google results (like removing previous engagements with the law), built a bunk bed for his daughters. Well, not build. More like put together.
You saw Chinedum Ndukwe getting ripped by defensive backs coach Kevin Coyle for not paying attention, while Mike Zimmer worked on Ndukwe's technique. Zimmer also got on Ndukwe for the touchdown allowed against the Saints' Jeremy Shockey.
You just never think you know Dhani Jones.
After losing to the New Orleans Saints, Marvin Lewis went apeshit. Think his message got across? Still nice to actually see the passion.
Jim Anderson said that Chris Pressley was nasty, an animal, in the game while Fui Vakapuna, who left the game with an ankle injury, was just OK.
The personnel meeting with the coaches and Mike Brown was far less dreadful.
Katie Blackburn is coming off very badly in the show. In the last segment, Blackburn was on the phone with Andre Smith's agent Alvin Keels, who only asks he get paid according to the slotting system. Katie just wants to pay something that's fair. You'll hear more of that tomorrow. I'm sure of it.

Interview: Football Outsiders' Robert Weintraub sits with Cincy Jungle

Kirkendall — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:19:19 -0000

If you're one of those truly hardcore fans, like Bengals fans that sit at work, hitting F5 on their browser to refresh Cincy Jungle for the latest updates, most likely you've heard of the gang at Football Outsiders. We've referenced them a lot during the season to qualify and solidify our arguments. Every year they've released a book which provides their modern formulaic stats, projections, and detailed summary and analysis of each team. There really isn't a better book on the market to help edge you into that insane realm of being an educated football fan. The best part is that it's geared towards truly projecting and ranking players and teams based on opponent, game situations, compared to the league as a whole. While the name of this years book changed from Pro Football Prospectus to the Football Outsiders Almanac, it still includes all of the great information they've provided each year.

One of the writers for the new Almanac is Robert Weintraub. He joins us here at Cincy Jungle for a few quick questions.

In the 2009 edition of The Football Outsiders Almanac, it shows that of the top 16 teams with the biggest offensive drop in DVOA (Defense-adjusted Value Over Average) since 1999, all but four teams improved; in some cases dramatically. The Bengals had the 12th biggest drop since 1999 (26.1%). Do you see the 2009 Bengals being one of those teams that dramatically improve?

Robert Weintraub: As you mention, teams generally move away from extreme performances, good or ill, toward the mean. The Bengals can’t get any worse offensively then they were a year ago, so clearly they should improve. The team was the third-hardest hit by injury in the NFL, and that usually means an improvement due to better health. Obviously, Palmer is the key man to return to health—just his playing in all 16 games should show a healthy return to positive offensive DVOA.

Cedric Benson’s past is well known. Coming to Cincinnati midway through 2008, Benson was limited behind a terribly performing offensive line. Once Anthony Collins and Nate Livings started the final six games of the season, things solidified and Benson’s performance in the last three games likely rewarded him with a two-year contract. Dating back to last year, the team’s running backs have seen a massive shuffle in personnel. With all of the team’s changes, do you see the team improving on their 95 yards-per-game average from last year?

Robert Weintraub: Benson was indeed rewarded, but it came after a long look for someone better. It’s hard to see the running game being a huge factor until the O-line gets some cohesiveness. But with the addition of Fui Vakapuna and more two-back attack, plus a full season of Benson, who for all his mediocrity doesn’t fumble and runs hard, Cincy should show some improvement. Again, it can’t get much worse.

The Bengals offensive line was written in The Football Outsiders Almanac as “perhaps the single worst unit in the entire NFL last season.” Stacy Andrews and Eric Ghiaciuc left for free agency and Levi Jones was released. Now the team is left with a lot of unknowns; Kyle Cook at center, Nate Livings at left guard and Andre Smith at right tackle. The Football Outsiders Almanac says the 2009 offensive line will be younger and inexperienced, however shows promise. Why is that?

Robert Weintraub: Addition by subtraction is the key phrase for the ’09 Bengals line. Andrew Whitworth has shown he is capable enough to handle left tackle, and Livings was good in a late-season test as a rookie. Unquestionably, there will be growing pains and a stretch where all the new players aren’t on the same page.Paul Alexander’s job, and it is a crucial one, is to minimize that period.

If you combine Tank Johnson’s numbers with the Bengals numbers from last year, Johnson is ranked as the second-best defensive lineman on the team in terms of stop percentage (81%). However, playing in a 3-4 in Dallas, Johnson’s playing time was limited. Back in a 4-3 defense with the Bengals, combining with Domata Peko and Pat Sims, how much better is the defensive line with Tank Johnson?

Robert Weintraub: Tank gives Cincy something it hasn’t had in many a moon—a legitimate tackle rotation. Individually, Tank, Peko and Sims are all pretty good, not world beaters. But having three players who are decent against the run is critical over the long season, especially in the AFC North. Injury and stamina concerns are lessened by Tank’s presence, and that’s good, regardless of his checkered past. And as you mention, he fits Mike Zimmer’s scheme well, more so than Wade Phillips’.

With Chinedum Ndukwe, Marvin White, Chris Crocker and Roy Williams at safety, the Bengals secondary has a group of hard hitting safeties. The general concern is that where they’re strong against the run, they could be weak against the pass. This means that Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph could be relied upon more this year; perhaps being forced to prove their worth as first-round picks. Where do you see the Bengals secondary heading into 2009?

Robert Weintraub: First and foremost, the secondary needs to stay healthy. Joseph’s injury really set the unit back last season, moving Hall up to #1 WR duty and bringing the odious David Jones onto the field more than anyone wanted to see. Hall and Joseph certainly have the talent to form an excellent CB combo. If they played on a team with even a little pass rush, we might think of them much differently. Marvin White, being the only safety with decent cover skills, could earn more playing time than you might think. The other three will certainly be tested by enemy tight ends and backs early in the season—how each responds will decide who gets the bulk of the playing time.

Which new player with the Bengals do you expect to surprise people?

Robert Weintraub: It’s not very sexy, but Kevin Huber could make a big difference as the new punter. Marvin’s boy Kyle Larson was simply awful in 2008, and Huber has looked good in a small sample in camp. Vakapuna may also become an instant folk hero.

I wanted to thank Robert and Football Outsiders for taking the time out to chat with us. You can pick up a copy of Football Outsiders Almanac through their online store.