The next team out of the NFC North is the Bengals. What a mess this team is. Whether it be big mouth players, criminals, or just pathetic defense, this team has issues. Things don't look to be getting any better in division play either.

Division : AFC North
Yards Allowed Per Game
Steelers : 266 (1st)
Ravens : 302 (6th)
Bengals : 349 (27th)
Browns : 360 (30th)


Points Allowed Per Game
Steelers : 17 (2nd)
Browns : 24 (21st)
Ravens : 24 (23rd)
Bengals : 24 (24th)

The Bengals are not only the worst defensive team in the division, they're also one of the worst in the league. This isn't always such a bad thing though. It seems quite often that a team that gives up a ton of points also scores a lot of points. The continued defensive struggles point to yet another good year for Palmer, Housh, and Ocho Cinco. What does it mean for Rudi Johnson though? If you're always behind on the scoreboard it becomes hard to work the run. It also doesn't help if you're facing a difficult schedule.

Week 1 : Ravens (15th)
Week 2 : Titans (5th)
Week 3 : Giants (13th)
Week 4 : Browns (28th)
Week 5 : Cowboys (11th)
Week 6 : Jets (18th)
Week 7 : Steelers (1st)
Bye
Week 9 : Jaguars (10th)
Week 10 : Texans (22nd)
Week 11 : Eagles (7th)
Week 12 : Steelers (1st)
Week 13 : Ravens (15th)
Week 14 : Colts (2nd)
Week 15 : Redskins (8th)
Week 16 : Browns (28th)
Week 17 : Chiefs (14th)

Strength Of Schedule Index : 12.16

Colts (2nd) Redskins (8th) Browns (28th)

Cincinnati's schedule is a lot like Baltimore's. Only difference is that Baltimore was lucky enough to draw Miami and Oakland while Cincy gets KC and NYJ. Having to play the NFC East is going to be really hard on AFC North teams this year. There isn't a single cupcake in that division. There could be some ugly moments for owners in this mess. There isn't a 3 game stretch on this schedule that looks inviting. I don't think you can downgrade someone like Chad Johnson or Housh because the schedule is tough, but it's at least something to keep in mind.

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Originally Posted by Miller_time No denying they have a brutal schedule, if they perform to ability, shouldn't be a problem, but they haven't exactly played to their abilities the last couple years. Could be a bumpy year, or a proving year.....

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Originally Posted by Miller_time Well prepare to be surprised.

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Originally Posted by ExperiencedRookie As I see it .. QB : Brady, Manning, Romo, Brees, and ? WR : Moss, TO, Wayne, Braylon, and ? If Palmer can hook up his WR's early and often then possibly. As far as the Bengals record goes, 8-8 would be an achievement.