There was a brief 85 vs. Housh discussion here before the season started that was quickly dismissed by many, but I think it is a good time to ask the question again, with a bit of a twist.

At this point, everybody knows that the Bengals are having a very bad start to the 2007 season. Chad Johnson leads the team in receiving yards, but trails Housh by 11 in total receptions, and 2 in touchdowns.

In addition to that, there were signs pointing to internal implosion among the team and the coaches following week 4. Personally, I think there is a good bit of tension between Marvin Lewis and Chad Johnson, and this has gone on since last year. Chad Johnson is a great talent, no denying that, but he is also a "me" guy, and there is no denying that unless you are being a blind homer.

My concern is the possibility of seeing a bigger focus made toward Housh in the passing game, and a growing possibility of the Bengals moving forward without Chad Johnson in the near future.

Curious as to what others think might be going on between the Bengals and Johnson.

I think that Chad Johnson has a winner's mentality and as stated, he is on a very talented team that is struggling. The Bengals did not finish well last season and missed the playoffs, and this year they've started off 1-3. Personally, I think that there needs to be tension between Johnson and Marvin Lewis; there needs to be tension between the entire team and Marvin Lewis. None of these guys are doing their jobs the way that they should be done, so I think it is a good thing that everything doesn't seem "honky dorey" in Cincy. The fact that Johnson gets so emotional when the team does bad, along with many other Bengals' players, is a good indication that they are all passionate about the franchise.

I'm not saying that #85 isn't a "me" guy, I think most of the best guys in the league are whether you are vocal about it like Johnson or you are silent about it like LT. But what I will ask is this, has there every been an issue with Johnson's "selfishness" when the team is winning?

I doubt that Ocho Cinco will be parting ways with the Bengals any time soon. This isn't Keshawn Johnson we are talking about here, it is unlikely that you are going to find a replacement in the draft or in free agency for CJ, and for a reciever of his caliber, to trade for him would involve to steep a price tag. Johnson will remain a Bengal, the team will work out its issues, and they will be a winning organization before you know it.

I am pretty sure I raised this in that other thread....but what is hurting Johnson is no Henry. When Henry is in, they move Housh to a slot, send Henry deep, and Chad can do as he pleases. I still think Chad will be fine, and a top 5 wr....but he does better when others are there to take the load off. Housh will lead this team in receptions..but Chad will have more yards.

The issue I am really curious about is little rumors of internal problems within the team, and some fingers being pointed at Chad Johnson. From what I have read and listened to, Johnson has an issue with pouting and not performing whenever the coaches don't cater to him. Just rumors, but something to pay attention to.

Not really sure what to read into it at this point, but given the post-game actions between Lewis and the team, it is looking more and more like the team is falling apart.

Dunno, just thought I would throw that out there.

Actually, it isn't just Chad, the whole receiving core is getting fingers pointing...even Housh. Housh got on Marvin on the sideline as well. I will see if I can find the artcle on it.

Yeah, this situation had several people involved. Mainly what I have heard being talked about though goes back much further than that.

I can't remember who made the actual statement, but basically what I heard earlier this week was anytime the coaching staff tries to discipline Chad Johnson, he basically goes into seclusion and his production drops. He is still great with the fans, but what was basically being said is that it has led to internal problems.