2006 Cincinnati Bengals season
Encyclopedia
The 2006
Cincinnati Bengals
season began with the team trying to improve on their 11–5 record in 2005
, defending their AFC North Division Championship title, and progress further through the playoffs than they made in the 2005 season having lost to Pittsburgh in the 1st round after losing star quarterback Carson Palmer to injury on the second play of the game.
. Some of the characteristics it highlights are:
from the practice squad.
Feb 1 Signed WR P.K. Sam (Free Agent from New England Patriots
).
Feb 7 Signed QB Doug Johnson (Free Agent from Tennessee Titans
).
Feb 13 Signed LB Rashad Jeanty
(Free Agent from CFL
team Edmonton Eskimos
).
Mar 10 Terminated contract of DE Duane Clemons
.
Mar 13 Signed S Dexter Jackson (Unrestricted Free Agent from Tampa Bay Buccaneers
).
Mar 21 Signed WR Antonio Chatman
(Unrestricted Free Agent from Green Bay Packers
).
Mar 31 Terminated the contract of S Kim Herring
.
Apr 3 Signed DT Sam Adams (Unrestricted Free Agent from Buffalo Bills
).
Apr 21 Signed QB Anthony Wright
(Unrestricted Free Agent from Baltimore Ravens
).
wanted Carson
to play in the preseason earlier than Carson said. The controversy was dismissed by Lewis as miscommunication and sensationalism by the media.
, Kansas City, Missouri
The Bengals opened the regular season on the road against the Kansas City Chiefs
on September 10. The Chiefs scored first on a 29-yard field goal by opposing kicker Lawrence Tynes
. However, in the second quarter, the Bengals exploded with 17-straight points. Kicker Shayne Graham
tied the game up with a 37-yard field goal, then RB Rudi Johnson
ran 22 yards for a touchdown, and RB Kenny Watson
ran 8 yards for a TD, making the score 17–3 at halftime. After both sides failed to score in the third quarter, a third quarter marked by Trent Green
getting tackled so hard that he did not remember it (and subsequently resulted in his removal from the game), Bengals kicker Shayne Graham made the score 20–3 with a 42-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Chiefs tried to come back with a 9-yard TD pass from opposing back-up QB Damon Huard
to opposing TE Tony Gonzalez. A 36-yard field goal by Graham would put the game away in favor of the Bengals as they began the season 1–0.
, Cincinnati, Ohio
The Bengals began Round 1 of 2006's Battle of Ohio in the Week 2 home-opener against the Cleveland Browns
. Cincinnati started off with QB Carson Palmer
throwing a 22-yard TD pass to WR Kelley Washington
. The Browns would respond with a 30-yard FG by opposing Kicker Phil Dawson
. Fortunately, the Bengals would further their lead with Palmer throwing an 8-yard TD pass to WR Chad Johnson. In the second quarter, Kicker Shayne Graham
kicked a 37-yard field goal as time ran out in the half to give Cincinnati a 17–3 halftime lead. There wouldn't be any scoring in the third quarter, but in the fourth, points were flying everywhere. Graham would give the Bengals a 37-yard field goal, but then, the Browns responded with a 1-yard TD run by opposing RB Reuben Droughns
. Fortunately, two TD runs by RB Rudi Johnson
(a 1-yarder and a 9-yarder) helped put the game out of reach. The Browns would get one more touchdown with opposing QB Charlie Frye
scoring on a 2-yard run, but the game belonged to the Bengals as they improved to 2–0.
There were several injuries to Bengal players in starting positions. David Pollack
, a 2nd year linebacker, suffered a non-paralysis broken neck (fracture of the C6 vertabrae) and was out for the rest of the season, and potentially for his career. Offseason free agent veteran acquisition, Dexter Jackson, had a severe ankle sprain and the amount of time he would be lost was not clear. Long time Bengal center, Rich Braham
also suffered a leg injury and was expected to be out for some weeks. Popular receiving star, Chad Johnson had a few incidents that appeared to hamper him. On his 8-yard touchdown pass his shoulder was injured (noticeable by his unenthusiastic post-score celebratory dance) and, even though he continued to play, appeared to be in pain. Later in the game, during an intercepted pass by the Browns, he was blindsided hit by Brown's safety causing a concussion. A special team starter, Tab Perry
, was also injured (hip) and appears to be out for a few games.
The loss of so many starting players and possible unavailability of other key players is a concern for the upcoming game at Pittsburgh.
, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The Bengals maintained their shared lead in the AFC North (3–0, 2–0) by defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers
28–20 at Heinz Field
in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
. The game was marred by sloppy play by both teams, however Cincinnati benefitted greatly by creating 5 Steeler turnovers and blocking a Jeff Reed field goal attempt.
Pittsburgh appeared to be well on their way to a win, with Willie Parker
scoring a touchdown on their first drive of the game. Following a Deshea Townsend
interception of Carson Palmer
, the Steelers again drove into the redzone, however a Ben Roethlisberger
pass was intercepted by Madieu Williams in the end zone and returned to the three-yard line.
The change in momentum was evident as the Bengals marched 97 yards capped by a 16 yard touchdown pass from Palmer to Chris Henry. Following a blocked field goal by John Thornton, Palmer and Henry would reconnect in the endzone late in the second quarter giving Cincinnati a 14–7 lead at the half.
In the third quarter Pittsburgh took back the momentum, scoring a field goal on their first drive followed by an Ike Taylor interception of Palmer on the Bengals' first drive of the half, setting up the Steelers on the Bengals' 7. Parker scored 4 plays later giving the Steelers a 17–14 lead.
After the touchdown, neither offense could get on track with the next seven drives ending in either punts or turnovers. With 8 minutes left in the game, the Bengals were forced to punt. A muffed return by Ricardo Colclough and subsequent recovery by the Bengals' Tony Stewart gave the Bengals the ball on the Steelers' 9. Palmer connect with T. J. Houshmandzadeh
on the first play from scrimmage giving the Bengals a 21–17 lead. The Bengal defense responded by forcing a fumble on the next Steeler drive, giving the offense the ball on the Steeler 30-yard line. On the first play of the drive, Palmer again went to Houshmandzadeh in the end zone, connecting for a 30 yard touchdown and extending the lead to 28–17. The Steeler offense returned on the next possession, driving to the Bengals' 18 and adding another Jeff Reed field goal. After forcing a Bengal 3-and-out, the Steelers received the ball on their own 11 with 2:42 to play in the game. Roethlisberger was able to drive the Steelers down to the Bengals' 16 yard line, however the game effectively ended when a pass intended for Nate Washington in the end zone was intercepted by Kevin Kaesviharn.
The Bengals showed maturity and patience in an important win against the Steelers while improving to 3–0. However, the Bengals allowed 6 sacks, gave up 3 turnovers and were unable to involve either of the "Johnsons" as a significant part of the offense. The Bengals looked to improve in week 4 at home against the Patriots.
was arrested for a DUI with teammates Chris Henry and Reggie McNeal
in the vehicle. Odell had just entered the 3rd game of a 4 game suspension for violating the NFL's drug policy. The NFL suspended him for the remainder of the season.
, Cincinnati, Ohio
The Bengals quarterback protection issues seemed to continue as Palmer was sacked an additional four times during this game. This was a major change to last year's success in that area, where Palmer was sacked only 21 times for the entire year. Already, this year, he's been sacked 16 times. For the offense and defense the running game proved problematic. Rudi Johnson
failed to gain 50 yards on the ground while the Patriots' running backs, former Bengal Corey Dillon
and rookie RB Laurence Maroney
, combined for 192 rushing yards. Even Patriots QB Tom Brady
uncharacteristically got into the act with a 22-yard scamper, even though he's usually considered a run-shy player. Caleb Miller
started in the right linebacker position and led the Bengals in tackles during the game.
The passing offense for the Bengals appeared largely unsuccessful. Although WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh gained 94 yards, his starting counterpart, WR Chad Johnson, did not gain more than 70. WR Chris Henry was deactivated for the game for what was believed to be a disciplinary measure by Head Coach Marvin Lewis
for his involvement in Odell Thurman
's DUI incident.
This was the first game that Corey Dillon played at Paul Brown Stadium
as a non-Bengal during a regular season game. His controversial behavior in his latter years with the Bengals made him a target for anger for many Bengals' fans. According to post-game reports, Dillon waved the rookie running back off the field when the Patriots were close to scoring a touchdown so Dillon could run it in himself. When he did he threw the football into the stands and proceeded to celebrate with such length and production, he drew a flag for a personal foul from the referees. Typically an NFL ball that made it to stands is considered a rare souvenir, but because of Dillon's reputation within the Bengals' fan base, the ball was rejected by the fans and tossed back onto the field instead.
The Cincinnati Bengals
fell to second place in the AFC North (3–1) after a disappointing loss to the New England Patriots
, 38–13. Going into the bye-week, there is an expectation of the extra weekend will give some injured Bengals the time they need to return and play. Historically speaking, Lewis has done a great job with the first game after a bye, having won the majority of those games but as coach for the Bengals his record to this point was 1–2.
, Tampa, Florida
Hoping to rebound from their home loss to the Patriots, the Bengals flew to Raymond James Stadium
for a Week 6 fight with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
. After a scoreless first quarter, Cincinnati took an early lead, as QB Carson Palmer
completed a 33-yard TD pass to WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh for the only score of the half. In the third quarter, the Bucs would tie the game, as QB Bruce Gradkowski
completed a 2-yard TD pass to TE Alex Smith
, but the Bengals would regain the lead as kicker Shayne Graham
kicked a 37-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Graham would help Cincinnati increase the lead with a 47-yard field goal. During the last drive for the Buccaneers, on 1st down after penetrating the Bengals' 20 yard line close to scoring, DE Justin Smith apparently made the first sack of Gradkowski for the game during a solo tackle, however, the officiating crew felt Smith tackled the QB in such a way as to have driven the QB's head into the ground and penalized the Bengals for roughing the passer. The call is currently being reviewed by the league but a public statement will probably never be made by the NFL officiating committee if the call was errant or not (the NFL later reviewed the play and sent a letter of apology to the Bengals for the bad call). During the apparent sack, Smith caused a fumble which was recovered by the Bengals, with less than 2 minutes left on the clock and the Bucs with no time outs. When the play was overturned due to the controversial call, Tampa Bay managed to win on an 8-yard TD pass from Gradkowski to WR Michael Clayton later in the drive. Originally, it was ruled incomplete, but replay reviews managed to see that Clayton managed to break the plane of the goal line before losing the ball. With less than 1:30 minutes left in the game the Bengals drove from their 30 to the Bucs' side of the field and tried an extremely long 62-yard field goal against the prevailing winds and missed. With the loss, Cincinnati hold a 3–2 record. Lewis' win/loss ratio after the bye with the Bengals fell to 1–3.
In a post-game interview when Marvin Lewis
was asked how Justin Smith might have avoided drawing the controversial roughing the passer penalty during the attempted sack, he responded "I don’t know. I guess you have to cuddle him to the ground."
Other comments
Justin Smith said "I've never seen anything like that in my six years in the NFL." The official who made the call "must have season tickets down here." He further explained ""The dude (QB) ducked", suggesting it wasn't the force of Smith tackling but the QB's effort to double-over and protect the ball that made it appear he was being forced into the ground head first.
Houshmandzadeh said "You might as well put a red jersey on (Gradkowski) and play two-hand touch."
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Hoping to rebound from their embarrassing loss to the Bucs, the Bengals went home for a showdown with the Carolina Panthers
. In the first quarter, things didn't start out good for Cincinnati as Panthers QB Jake Delhomme
completed a 7-yard TD pass to TE Kris Mangum
for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Bengals managed to get on the board with QB Carson Palmer
completing a 16-yard TD pass to TE Reggie Kelly
. However, Carolina would respond with Delhomme completing a 20-yard TD pass to RB Nick Goings
. Fortunately, in the second half of the game, it was all Cincinnati, with kicker Shayne Graham
nailing a 23-yard field goal in the third quarter and Palmer completing a 1-yard TD pass to WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
. The drive which led to Housh's (a nickname used by local radio commentators for Houshmandzadeh) was kept alive by an uncharacteristically risky play. On 4th and 1 instead of the expected, and typically successful quarterback push in the middle or a short-yardage dive play involving a running back, the Bengals ran a "play action pass". Carson tossed a high arching pass down the sideline where a sprinting Chad Johnson caught up to it and made a tumbling catch just out of the reach of the defender for a 32-yard gain. The Panthers' last scoring opportunity was thwarted by Delhomme's first interception ever thrown as a Panther when in the opponent's 20 yard line. Kevin Kaesviharn
made the interception to end the threat, much like the pass he intercepted during the Steeler's game earlier this year. This game saw the return of 3rd down running back specialist Chris Perry and safety Dexter Jackson. With the victory, the Bengals improved to 4–2, tying the Ravens for the lead in the AFC North.
During this time period the Bengals' held a workout for former Bengal Peter Warrick
. This appears to be in response to their thinning receiving corps.
After being relatively silent for most of the season Chad Johnson spoke out boastfully before the Atlanta game predicting he would score multiple touchdowns and damage the defensive back rival, DeAngelo Hall
, into being cut from Atlanta's team. Chad stated he was using this opportunity for the offense to regain some of its confidence and swagger.
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Following their victory against the Panthers, the Bengals stayed at home for a throwdown with the visiting Atlanta Falcons
. In the first quarter, the Falcons drew first blood, as kicker Morten Andersen
nailed a 42-yard field goal. The Bengals would respond with a 1-yard TD run by RB Rudi Johnson
. Yet, Atlanta drew closer with Andersen kicking a 40-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Cincinnati added on to their lead with QB Carson Palmer
completing a 12-yard TD pass to WR Chad Johnson. However, the Falcons would respond with QB Michael Vick
completing a 16-yard TD pass to TE Alge Crumpler
. Fortunately, the Bengals had kicker Shayne Graham
nail a 51-yard field goal near the end of the half. In the third quarter, the Falcons started to get some steam with Vick completing a 26-yard TD pass to WR Michael Jenkins. Graham would kick a 26-yard field goal for Cincinnati's only score of the period, yet Vick managed to hook up with FB Justin Griffith
, which was followed up with a bobbled snap on the PAT and a failed two-point conversion). In the fourth quarter, Andersen helped the Falcons get a 39-yard field goal and a semi-hefty lead over Cincinnati. The Bengals would respond with Palmer completing a 55-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry. However, on their last drive, any chance for Cincinnati to pull off a comeback ended in a fumble, as the Falcons held on to win, while making the Bengals fall to 4–3.What happened during practice is Chad Johnson, on the back of his name label, it says Ocho Cinco instead of C. Johnson.Soon, Carson Palmer
ripped it off to reveal C.Johnson.
, Baltimore, Maryland
Hoping to rebound from their home loss to the Falcons, the Bengals flew to M&T Bank Stadium
for an AFC North fight with the Baltimore Ravens
. From the get-go, the Bengals trailed, as RB Jamal Lewis
got a 2-yard TD run, while QB Carson Palmer
got intercepted by CB Samari Rolle
at Cincinnati's 49-yard line. Rolle would go 24 yards, before lateraling the ball off to Free Safety Ed Reed
, who ran the remaining 25 yards for a touchdown. In the second quarter, kicker Matt Stover
got a 43-yard field goal for the Ravens. The Bengals would finally get a touchdown, as Palmer completed a 26-yard TD pass to WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
. In the third quarter, Stover got two more field goals for Baltimore (a 25-yarder and a 36-yarder), while Cincinnati kicker Shayne Graham
nailed a 51-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Bengals started to claw back with RB Rudi Johnson
getting a 4-yard TD run. However, Stover got another field goal, which was from 35 yards out. Even though Graham would get a 31-yard field goal, the Ravens emerged as the victor, while the Bengals fell to 4–4.
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Hoping to snap their two-game skid, the Bengals went home for a Week 10 match-up of former AFL West rivals with the San Diego Chargers
. The Bengals started off strong with FB Jeremi Johnson
getting a 3-yard TD run. Afterwards, RB Rudi Johnson
got a 7-yard TD run and QB Carson Palmer
completed a 51-yard TD to WR Chad Johnson. In the second quarter, the Chargers managed to get on the board with RB LaDainian Tomlinson
getting a 9-yard TD run. Cincinnati would respond with Palmer completing a 7-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry. For the second half, the points came in huge chunks. In the third quarter, San Diego responded with Tomlinson getting a 4-yard TD run, while QB Philip Rivers
completed a 46-yard TD pass to WR Malcom Floyd
. The Bengals would respond with kicker Shayne Graham
getting a 21-yard field goal. The Chargers would strike with Rivers completing a 9-yard TD pass to TE Brandon Manumaleuna
. The Bengals would answer with Palmer completing a 73-yard TD pass to Chad Johnson. In the fourth quarter, the points didn't stop coming in, as San Diego responded with Tomlinson getting a 2-yard TD run and a 9-yard TD run. Cincinnati would get a 44-yard field goal from Graham, but the Chargers wrapped up this high scoring contest with Rivers and Manumaleuna hooking up with each other again on a 5-yard TD pass. With the loss, the Bengals fell to 4–5.
, New Orleans, Louisiana
Hoping to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, the Bengals traveled to the Louisiana Superdome
for a Week 11 fight with the New Orleans Saints
. In the first quarter, the Bengals drew first blood as QB Carson Palmer
completed a 41-yard TD pass to WR Chad Johnson. However, the Saints would reply with QB Drew Brees
completing a 72-yard TD strike to WR Joe Horn
. In the second quarter, Cincinnati took the lead before halftime as kicker Shayne Graham
nailed a 21-yard field goal. After a scoreless third quarter, New Orleans tried to come back in the fourth quarter, as kicker John Carney nailed a 24-yard field goal. Fortunately, the Bengals offense went into overdrive as Palmer and Johnson connected with each other two more times with a 60-yard TD pass and a 4-yard TD pass. Then, the defense helped out as rookie DB Ethan Kilmer
returned an interception 52 yards for a touchdown. The Saints could managed only one more touchdown, as Brees completed a 27-yard TD pass to WR Terrance Copper
(with a missed PAT), but the Bengals managed to snap a three-game skid and improve to 5–5.
, Cleveland, Ohio
Coming off of their impressive road win over the Saints, the Bengals flew to Cleveland Browns Stadium
for Round 2 of the Battle of Ohio
against the Cleveland Browns
. From beginning to end, Cincinnati dominated the game. In the first quarter, the domination began with RB Rudi Johnson
getting a 1-yard TD run for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, QB Carson Palmer
completed a 7-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry, while kicker Shayne Graham
completed a 24-yard field goal. In the third quarter, Palmer would hook up with WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
on a 6-yard TD pass (with a failed PAT) for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Palmer and Henry would hook up one more time on a 10-yard TD pass. With their second-straight sweep over Cleveland, the Bengals improved to 6–5.
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Coming off of their dominate road win over the Browns, the Bengals went home for a Thursday Night fight in an AFC North rematch against the Baltimore Ravens
. After a scoreless first quarter, kicker Shayne Graham
helped the Bengals draw first blood with a 23-yard and a 27-yard field goal. In the third quarter, things went even better as QB Carson Palmer
completed a 40-yard TD pass to WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
on a flea flicker for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, the Ravens had a late comeback as QB Steve McNair
completed a 36-yard TD pass to WR Derrick Mason
, but fortunately, the Bengals squashed any chance of Baltimore's comeback by succeeding on the onside kick. With the win, the Bengals improved to 7–5. Shane Graham missed the 1st extra point attempt in his entire career as it was blocked bringing his 158 success streak to an end. Chris Perry suffered another season-ending injury during this game and has not played a full season of professional football in his career yet.
, Cincinnati, Ohio
The 2–10 Raiders came into Paul Brown Stadium
Kevin Malone was at this game in which with a highly-ranked pass defense and poorly ranked offense. Even though QB Carson Palmer
uncharacteristically threw 3 interceptions and RB Rudi Johnson
fumbled the ball away, the 4 turnovers given to the Raiders were not enough for their offense to mount any consistent scoring efforts. Graham missed another extra point but it was unblocked. Cincinnati also did not punt once during this game. For the first time in Bengals' history, four players were over 100 yards in offensive production (Carson, Houshmandzadeh, Chad and Rudi Johnson). The Bengals' defense, although facing an unproductive Raiders' offense, continued their dominance.
After going on this 4-game win streak, and various AFC teams contending for the wild card spots losing on week 14, the Bengals regained control of their own destiny in regards to the playoffs while improving to 8–5. The next week they would go to Indianapolis to face the Colts. The possibility of the Bengals winning the AFC North division was still alive.
, Indianapolis, Indiana
Following their victory over the Raiders, the Bengals flew to the RCA Dome
for a Monday Night fight with the Indianapolis Colts
. In the first quarter, things started off slow with Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri
nailing 30-yard field goal, while kicker Shayne Graham
got a 27-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Indianapolis took the lead with QB Peyton Manning
completed a 4-yard TD pass to WR Marvin Harrison
. Cincinnati responded with RB Rudi Johnson
got a 12-yard TD run. However, Manning hooked up with Harrison again on a 3-yard TD pass. In the third quarter, the Bengals managed to have Graham kick a 30-yard field goal. However, things got worse with Manning completing a 1-yard TD pass to Harrison while completing an 18-yard TD pass to WR Reggie Wayne
. In the fourth quarter, Cincinnati's only response was Graham's 28-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Colts wrapped the game up with Vinatieri's 44-yard field goal. With the loss, not only did the Bengals fall to 8–6, but their loss allowed their division rival, the Baltimore Ravens
, to win the division.
, Denver, Colorado
Trying to rebound from their road loss to the Colts, the Bengals flew to Invesco Field at Mile High
for a snowy Week 16 intraconference fight with the Denver Broncos
. In the first quarter, Cincinnati struck first with RB Rudi Johnson
's 6-yard TD run for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Broncos struck back with QB Jay Cutler
completing a 1-yard TD pass to TE Tony Scheffler
and a 39-yard TD pass to WR Javon Walker
. Fortunately, the Bengals pounced back into the lead with kicker Shayne Graham
's 46-yard field goal and QB Carson Palmer
's 11-yard TD pass WR Chris Henry. However, in the second half, Denver pulled ahead with RB Mike Bell
's 2-yard TD run in the third quarter and kicker Jason Elam
's 24-yard field goal. Cincinnati would pull within one point with Palmer's 10-yard TD pass to WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
. Unfortunately, on the extra point attempt, punter/holder Kyle Larson
had the snap go right through his hands, securing the loss. With that, the Bengals fell to 8–7.
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Trying to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, the Bengals wrapped up their regular season at home with a crucial AFC North rematch game against the Pittsburgh Steelers
. The Bengals had two possible options for reaching the post-season 1 – A Bengals win and a Jets
loss, or 2 – A Kansas City Chiefs
win, a Denver Broncos
loss and a Bengals win. After a scoreless first quarter, the Steelers struck first with RB Willie Parker
scoring a 1-yard TD run. Afterwards, Cincinnati would manage to score with kicker Shayne Graham
nailing a 34-yard field goal. After a scoreless third quarter, the Bengals would take the lead after recovering a Willie Parker
fumble on the 1-yard-line, when QB Carson Palmer
completed a 66-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry. Afterwards, Pittsburgh retook the lead with Parker getting another 1-yard TD run. Cincinnati would then jump back into the lead with Palmer completing a 5-yard TD pass to TE Tony Stewart
. The Steelers would manage to tie the game late in the 4th period with kicker Jeff Reed
's 35-yard field goal, yet the Bengals managed to quickly move into field goal range. However, Graham's game-winning 39-yard field goal attempt went wide right. In overtime, the Steelers won with QB Ben Roethlisberger
completing a 67-yard TD pass to WR Santonio Holmes
. With the loss, not only did Cincinnati fall to 8–8, but their three-straight losses to end the season denied the Bengals of their playoff chances. In a cruel twist of fate, the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars
and the Denver Broncos
lost to the San Francisco 49ers
meaning that the Bengals cost themselves the post-season and ensured that Cincinnati would once again have nothing invested in the playoffs. It was Marvin Lewis' third 8 – 8 season in his four years as the Bengals head coach.
2006 NFL season
The 2006 NFL season was the 87th regular season of the National Football League.Regular season play was held from September 7 to December 31, 2006...
Cincinnati Bengals
Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals are a professional football team based in Cincinnati, Ohio. They are members of the AFC's North Division in the National Football League . The Bengals began play in 1968 as an expansion team in the American Football League , and joined the NFL in 1970 in the AFL-NFL...
season began with the team trying to improve on their 11–5 record in 2005
2005 NFL season
The 2005 NFL season was the 86th regular season of the National Football League.With the New England Patriots as the defending league champions, regular season play was held from September 8, 2005 to January 1, 2006...
, defending their AFC North Division Championship title, and progress further through the playoffs than they made in the 2005 season having lost to Pittsburgh in the 1st round after losing star quarterback Carson Palmer to injury on the second play of the game.
Theme
Each year ps a theme to focus the players and coaches attention on certain mental and discipline aspects of the game and team. The 2006–07 season used The Pyramid developed by successful former UCLA basketball coach John WoodenJohn Wooden
John Robert Wooden was an American basketball player and coach. Nicknamed the "Wizard of Westwood", he won ten NCAA national championships in a 12-year period — seven in a row — as head coach at UCLA, an unprecedented feat. Within this period, his teams won a record 88 consecutive games...
. Some of the characteristics it highlights are:
- Industriousness
- Friendship
- Loyalty
- Cooperation
- Enthusiasm
- Self control
- Alertness
- Initiative
- Intentness
- Condition
- Skill
- Team Spirit
- Poise
- Confidence
- Competitive Greatness
Personnel moves
Jan 10 Signed S Tony BuaTony Bua
Tony Bua is an American football player for Team Arkansas of the All American Football League. Formerly of the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League and also of the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League...
from the practice squad.
Feb 1 Signed WR P.K. Sam (Free Agent from New England Patriots
New England Patriots
The New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National...
).
Feb 7 Signed QB Doug Johnson (Free Agent from Tennessee Titans
Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans are a professional American football team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. They are members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Previously known as the Houston Oilers, the team began play in 1960 as a charter...
).
Feb 13 Signed LB Rashad Jeanty
Rashad Jeanty
Rashad Jeanty is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League after he went undrafted in 2002. After playing four seasons with the Eskimos, he signed with the Cincinnati Bengals of the NFL in 2006. He was a...
(Free Agent from CFL
Canadian Football League
The Canadian Football League or CFL is a professional sports league located in Canada. The CFL is the highest level of competition in Canadian football, a form of gridiron football closely related to American football....
team Edmonton Eskimos
Edmonton Eskimos
The Edmonton Eskimos are a Canadian football team based in Edmonton, Alberta. They currently play in the West Division of the Canadian Football League . Edmonton is currently the third-youngest franchise in the CFL, although there were clubs with the name Edmonton Eskimos as early as 1895...
).
Mar 10 Terminated contract of DE Duane Clemons
Duane Clemons
Duane Anthony Clemons is a former American Football defensive end who played in the National Football League between 1996 and 2005...
.
Mar 13 Signed S Dexter Jackson (Unrestricted Free Agent from Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional American football franchise based in Tampa, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the Southern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League – they are the only team in the division not to come from the old NFC West...
).
Mar 21 Signed WR Antonio Chatman
Antonio Chatman
Antonio Tavaras Chatman is an American football wide receiver and punt returner for the Sacramento Mountain Lions of the United Football League. He was signed by the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2002...
(Unrestricted Free Agent from Green Bay Packers
Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers are an American football team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Packers are the current NFL champions...
).
Mar 31 Terminated the contract of S Kim Herring
Kim Herring
Kimani 'Kim' Masai Herring is a former American football safety in the National Football League.-High school years:...
.
Apr 3 Signed DT Sam Adams (Unrestricted Free Agent from Buffalo Bills
Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills are a professional football team based in Buffalo, New York. They are currently members of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
).
Apr 21 Signed QB Anthony Wright
Anthony Wright (quarterback)
Anthony Lavron Wright is a retired American football quarterback. He was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 1999...
(Unrestricted Free Agent from Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are a professional football franchise based in Baltimore, Maryland.The Baltimore Ravens are officially a quasi-expansion franchise, having originated in 1995 with the Cleveland Browns relocation controversy after Art Modell, then owner of the Cleveland Browns, announced his...
).
Draft picks
| Round | Pick(Overall) | Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 24(24) | Jonathan Joseph | CB | University of South Carolina University of South Carolina The University of South Carolina is a public, co-educational research university located in Columbia, South Carolina, United States, with 7 surrounding satellite campuses. Its historic campus covers over in downtown Columbia not far from the South Carolina State House... |
| 2 | 23(55) | Andrew Whitworth Andrew Whitworth Andrew Whitworth is an American football offensive lineman for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. He was drafted in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Louisiana State University.-Early years:Whitworth was rated by CNNSI.com as the sixth-best... |
T | LSU Louisiana State University Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, most often referred to as Louisiana State University, or LSU, is a public coeducational university located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The University was founded in 1853 in what is now known as Pineville, Louisiana, under the name... |
| 3 | 27(91) | Frostee Rucker Frostee Rucker Rucker was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He was placed on the injured reserve list his rookie year in 2006.In 2007, Rucker contributed on special teams and situational opportunities on defense... |
DE | Southern California Southern California Southern California is a megaregion, or megapolitan area, in the southern area of the U.S. state of California. Large urban areas include Greater Los Angeles and Greater San Diego. The urban area stretches along the coast from Ventura through the Southland and Inland Empire to San Diego... |
| 4 | 26(123) | Domata Peko Domata Peko Peko was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft.The Bengals signed Peko to a five-year extension worth $29.3 million.-External links:*... |
DT | Michigan State |
| 5 | 24(157) | A.J. Nicholson | OLB | Florida State |
| 6 | 24(193) | Reggie McNeal Reggie McNeal Reginald Parrish McNeal is a quarterback and wide receiver in the Canadian Football League with the Edmonton Eskimos. He played college football at Texas A&M University.-High school career:... |
QB/WR | Texas A&M Texas A&M University Texas A&M University is a coeducational public research university located in College Station, Texas . It is the flagship institution of the Texas A&M University System. The sixth-largest university in the United States, A&M's enrollment for Fall 2011 was over 50,000 for the first time in school... |
| 7 | 1(209) | Ethan Kilmer Ethan Kilmer Ethan Michael Kilmer is a former American football safety of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2006 NFL Draft... |
WR/DB | Penn State |
| 7 | 23(231) | Bennie Brazell Bennie Brazell Bennie Brazell is an American football wide receiver for the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2006 NFL Draft... |
WR | LSU Louisiana State University Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, most often referred to as Louisiana State University, or LSU, is a public coeducational university located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The University was founded in 1853 in what is now known as Pineville, Louisiana, under the name... |
Carson Palmer's rehab
Exceeding expectations Carson Palmer was able to play on his reconstructed ligaments in only 8 months.SI interview
Carson's fame was boosted by a favorable interview with Sports Illustrated documenting his recovery progress.Lewis/Carson conflict on perceived recovery time
There was a minor controversy when it appeared that Marvin LewisMarvin Lewis
Marvin Ronald Lewis is the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League, a position he has held since January 14, 2003...
wanted Carson
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
to play in the preseason earlier than Carson said. The controversy was dismissed by Lewis as miscommunication and sensationalism by the media.
Legal troubles
During the 2006 offseason and season, nine different Bengals players were either arrested or suspended for their actions off the playing field. The sports media wrote extensively on the legal woes and character questions of some of the Bengals players. The media also commonly noted that the 2006 Bengals had more arrests than wins. The following is a list: http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/9572479/2- Chris Henry: marijuana charges, charged with pulling a gun on a group in Orlando, speeding and drunken driving, charged with providing alcohol to minors, over the course of several months in 4 different incidents over that time.
- Odell ThurmanOdell ThurmanOdell Lamar Thurman is an American football linebacker for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Georgia....
: suspended for the first four games of the 2006–2007 regular season due to a drug-test related suspension which Odell stated was due to him skipping a test, not failing one. He chalked it up to being immature. In addition to Thurmans's drug-related suspension, he was also arrested for drunk driving early Monday morning after the Bengal's victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Thurman is scheduled to be in court on Oct. 2, 2006.
- Frostee RuckerFrostee RuckerRucker was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He was placed on the injured reserve list his rookie year in 2006.In 2007, Rucker contributed on special teams and situational opportunities on defense...
: charged with two counts of spousal abuse and vandalism (the alleged incident occurred prior to Cincinnati drafting him)
- A.J. Nicholson: charged with burglary; previously arrested twice on suspicion of alcohol-related offenses (the alleged incident occurred prior to Cincinnati drafting him)
- Matthias AskewMatthias AskewMatthias Askew is an American football defensive tackle who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft...
: subdued by a taser after refusing to move his allegedly illegally parked car (Askew was cut from the team during the preason games. He is currently seeking legal action against the officers responsible for his being tasered in a lawsuit worth $50 million after the charges were proven unfounded).
- Eric SteinbachEric SteinbachEric Steinbach is an American football player who currently plays for the Cleveland Browns in the National Football League. He was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round in the 2003 NFL draft. He played college football for the University of Iowa.-High School years:Steinbach is a...
: charged with boating under the influence.
- Reggie McNealReggie McNealReginald Parrish McNeal is a quarterback and wide receiver in the Canadian Football League with the Edmonton Eskimos. He played college football at Texas A&M University.-High school career:...
: charged with resisting arrest and drug possession (Dec. 3rd, 2006)
- Deltha O'NealDeltha O'NealDeltha Lee O'Neal, III is an American football cornerback who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the first round as the 15th pick overall in the 2000 NFL Draft, after playing college football at California.A two-time Pro Bowl selection, O'Neal has also been a member...
: charged with driving while intoxicated following a traffic stop (Dec. 9, 2006).
Lawsuit dropped
The lawsuit introduced by a city council member charging the Bengals' organization with making the deal in bad faith was dropped.Staff
| 2006 Cincinnati Bengals staff | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Front Office
Head Coaches
Offensive Coaches
|
Defensive Coaches
Special Teams Coaches
Strength and Conditioning
|
|||||
Roster
| 2006 Cincinnati Bengals final roster | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers
Tight Ends
|
Offensive Linemen
Stacy Andrews Stacy Dewayne Andrews is an American football offensive guard for the New York Giants of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He played college football at Mississippi.Andrews has also played for the Philadelphia Eagles... G Eric Ghiaciuc Eric M. Ghiaciuc [GUY-check] is an American football offensive lineman of Romanian descent who is currently a Free Agent in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft... C Levi Jones Levi J. Jones is an American football offensive tackle for the Washington Redskins of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals 10th overall in the 2002 NFL Draft. He played college football at Arizona State.-College career:Jones attended Arizona State University... T Scott Kooistra Daniel Scott Kooistra [KOI-struh] is an American football offensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2003 NFL Draft... T Eric Steinbach Eric Steinbach is an American football player who currently plays for the Cleveland Browns in the National Football League. He was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round in the 2003 NFL draft. He played college football for the University of Iowa.-High School years:Steinbach is a... G Andrew Whitworth Andrew Whitworth is an American football offensive lineman for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. He was drafted in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Louisiana State University.-Early years:Whitworth was rated by CNNSI.com as the sixth-best... T Ben Wilkerson Ben Wilkerson is an American football center who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2005... G Bobbie Williams Bobbie Joe Williams, Jr. is an American football guard for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2000 NFL Draft... G Defensive Linemen
|
Linebackers
Ahmad Brooks Ahmad Brooks is an American football linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2006 NFL Supplemental Draft. He played college football at Virginia.He is the son of late NFL defensive tackle Perry... OLB Andre Frazier Andre Frazier is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2005. He played college football at Cincinnati.... OLB Rashad Jeanty Rashad Jeanty is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League after he went undrafted in 2002. After playing four seasons with the Eskimos, he signed with the Cincinnati Bengals of the NFL in 2006. He was a... OLB Landon Johnson Landon Tremone Johnson is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2004 NFL Draft... OLB Caleb Miller Caleb Miller is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2004 NFL Draft... OLB Brian Simmons Brian Eugene Simmons is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals 17th overall in the 1998 NFL Draft... ILB Marcus Wilkins Marcus Wesley Wilkins is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was originally signed by the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent in 2002. He played college football at Texas.... OLB Defensive Backs
Special Teams
|
Injured Reserve 
Rashad Bauman Leddure Rashad Bauman is a former American football player in the National Football League who played cornerback. He attended the University of Oregon and was a third team All-American selection by the NFL Draft Report , as well as an All-Pac 10 Conference second-team choice... CB Rich Braham Rich Braham is a former National Football League center who played for the Cincinnati Bengals.-High school career:Braham attended University High School in Morgantown, West Virginia, where he lettered in both football and basketball... C Bennie Brazell Bennie Brazell is an American football wide receiver for the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2006 NFL Draft... WR Greg Brooks (American football) Greg Brooks is a former American football Cornerback for the Cincinnati Bengals in the National Football League.-External links:**... CB Antonio Chatman Antonio Tavaras Chatman is an American football wide receiver and punt returner for the Sacramento Mountain Lions of the United Football League. He was signed by the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2002... WR Anthony Mitchell (American football) Anthony Maurice Mitchell is a former American football safety in the National Football League. He was signed by the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 1999... SS Tab Perry Tab Wilson Perry is an American football wide receiver for the Las Vegas Locomotives of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft... WR David Pollack -Injury:In the Bengals' September 17, 2006 game against in-state rival Cleveland Browns, Pollack suffered what was later determined to be a broken sixth cervical vertebrae on a first quarter tackle on running back Reuben Droughns. He reportedly suffered no paralysis, but was taken off the field on... OLB Frostee Rucker Rucker was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He was placed on the injured reserve list his rookie year in 2006.In 2007, Rucker contributed on special teams and situational opportunities on defense... DE Kelley Washington James Kelley Washington is an American football wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft... WR Terrence Whitehead Terrence Harrell Whitehead is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2006... HB Physically Unable to Perform
Suspended
Practice Squad
Practice Squad Injured Reserve
International Practice Squad
|
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Week 1: at Kansas City Chiefs
at Arrowhead StadiumArrowhead Stadium
Arrowhead Stadium is a stadium located in Kansas City, Missouri and home to the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs....
, Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri is the largest city in the U.S. state of Missouri and is the anchor city of the Kansas City Metropolitan Area, the second largest metropolitan area in Missouri. It encompasses in parts of Jackson, Clay, Cass, and Platte counties...
The Bengals opened the regular season on the road against the Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs are a professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri. They are a member of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Originally named the Dallas Texans, the club was founded by Lamar Hunt in 1960 as a...
on September 10. The Chiefs scored first on a 29-yard field goal by opposing kicker Lawrence Tynes
Lawrence Tynes
Lawrence James Henry Tynes is an American football placekicker for the New York Giants. He was originally signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2001.-Early years:...
. However, in the second quarter, the Bengals exploded with 17-straight points. Kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
tied the game up with a 37-yard field goal, then RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
ran 22 yards for a touchdown, and RB Kenny Watson
Kenny Watson
Kenneth Dwight Watson is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent in 2001...
ran 8 yards for a TD, making the score 17–3 at halftime. After both sides failed to score in the third quarter, a third quarter marked by Trent Green
Trent Green
Trent Jason Green is a retired professional American football quarterback. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the eighth round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He played college football at Indiana University....
getting tackled so hard that he did not remember it (and subsequently resulted in his removal from the game), Bengals kicker Shayne Graham made the score 20–3 with a 42-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Chiefs tried to come back with a 9-yard TD pass from opposing back-up QB Damon Huard
Damon Huard
Damon Paul Huard is a former American football quarterback. He was signed by the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 1996. He played college football at Washington....
to opposing TE Tony Gonzalez. A 36-yard field goal by Graham would put the game away in favor of the Bengals as they began the season 1–0.
Week 2: vs. Cleveland Browns
at Paul Brown StadiumPaul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio. Cincinnati is the county seat of Hamilton County. Settled in 1788, the city is located to north of the Ohio River at the Ohio-Kentucky border, near Indiana. The population within city limits is 296,943 according to the 2010 census, making it Ohio's...
The Bengals began Round 1 of 2006's Battle of Ohio in the Week 2 home-opener against the Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns are a professional football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are currently members of the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
. Cincinnati started off with QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
throwing a 22-yard TD pass to WR Kelley Washington
Kelley Washington
James Kelley Washington is an American football wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
. The Browns would respond with a 30-yard FG by opposing Kicker Phil Dawson
Phil Dawson
Philip Drury Dawson is an American football placekicker for the Cleveland Browns in the National Football League. He holds the franchise record for most field goals made, passing Hall of Famer Lou Groza in 2010...
. Fortunately, the Bengals would further their lead with Palmer throwing an 8-yard TD pass to WR Chad Johnson. In the second quarter, Kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
kicked a 37-yard field goal as time ran out in the half to give Cincinnati a 17–3 halftime lead. There wouldn't be any scoring in the third quarter, but in the fourth, points were flying everywhere. Graham would give the Bengals a 37-yard field goal, but then, the Browns responded with a 1-yard TD run by opposing RB Reuben Droughns
Reuben Droughns
Reuben Droughns is an American football running back who is currently the head coach for the Serbian team Vukovi Beograd, the two-time champions of the Central European Football League. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 2000 NFL Draft...
. Fortunately, two TD runs by RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
(a 1-yarder and a 9-yarder) helped put the game out of reach. The Browns would get one more touchdown with opposing QB Charlie Frye
Charlie Frye
Charles Frye, , is an American football quarterback who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Akron.-Early years:...
scoring on a 2-yard run, but the game belonged to the Bengals as they improved to 2–0.
There were several injuries to Bengal players in starting positions. David Pollack
David Pollack
-Injury:In the Bengals' September 17, 2006 game against in-state rival Cleveland Browns, Pollack suffered what was later determined to be a broken sixth cervical vertebrae on a first quarter tackle on running back Reuben Droughns. He reportedly suffered no paralysis, but was taken off the field on...
, a 2nd year linebacker, suffered a non-paralysis broken neck (fracture of the C6 vertabrae) and was out for the rest of the season, and potentially for his career. Offseason free agent veteran acquisition, Dexter Jackson, had a severe ankle sprain and the amount of time he would be lost was not clear. Long time Bengal center, Rich Braham
Rich Braham
Rich Braham is a former National Football League center who played for the Cincinnati Bengals.-High school career:Braham attended University High School in Morgantown, West Virginia, where he lettered in both football and basketball...
also suffered a leg injury and was expected to be out for some weeks. Popular receiving star, Chad Johnson had a few incidents that appeared to hamper him. On his 8-yard touchdown pass his shoulder was injured (noticeable by his unenthusiastic post-score celebratory dance) and, even though he continued to play, appeared to be in pain. Later in the game, during an intercepted pass by the Browns, he was blindsided hit by Brown's safety causing a concussion. A special team starter, Tab Perry
Tab Perry
Tab Wilson Perry is an American football wide receiver for the Las Vegas Locomotives of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
, was also injured (hip) and appears to be out for a few games.
The loss of so many starting players and possible unavailability of other key players is a concern for the upcoming game at Pittsburgh.
Week 3: at Pittsburgh Steelers
at Heinz FieldHeinz Field
Heinz Field is a stadium located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It primarily serves as the home to the Pittsburgh Steelers and University of Pittsburgh Panthers American football teams, members of the National Football League and National Collegiate Athletic Association respectively...
, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is the second-largest city in the US Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the county seat of Allegheny County. Regionally, it anchors the largest urban area of Appalachia and the Ohio River Valley, and nationally, it is the 22nd-largest urban area in the United States...
The Bengals maintained their shared lead in the AFC North (3–0, 2–0) by defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The team currently belongs to the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Founded in , the Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC...
28–20 at Heinz Field
Heinz Field
Heinz Field is a stadium located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It primarily serves as the home to the Pittsburgh Steelers and University of Pittsburgh Panthers American football teams, members of the National Football League and National Collegiate Athletic Association respectively...
in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is the second-largest city in the US Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the county seat of Allegheny County. Regionally, it anchors the largest urban area of Appalachia and the Ohio River Valley, and nationally, it is the 22nd-largest urban area in the United States...
. The game was marred by sloppy play by both teams, however Cincinnati benefitted greatly by creating 5 Steeler turnovers and blocking a Jeff Reed field goal attempt.
Pittsburgh appeared to be well on their way to a win, with Willie Parker
Willie Parker
"Fast" Willie Everette Parker Jr. is an American football running back for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He played college football at North Carolina...
scoring a touchdown on their first drive of the game. Following a Deshea Townsend
Deshea Townsend
Trevor Deshea Townsend is a former defensive back in the National Football League, and is currently a defensive backs coach for the Arizona Cardinals and most recently a player for the Indianapolis Colts...
interception of Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
, the Steelers again drove into the redzone, however a Ben Roethlisberger
Ben Roethlisberger
Benjamin Todd "Ben" Roethlisberger , nicknamed Big Ben, is an American football quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Steelers in the first round in the 2004 NFL Draft...
pass was intercepted by Madieu Williams in the end zone and returned to the three-yard line.
The change in momentum was evident as the Bengals marched 97 yards capped by a 16 yard touchdown pass from Palmer to Chris Henry. Following a blocked field goal by John Thornton, Palmer and Henry would reconnect in the endzone late in the second quarter giving Cincinnati a 14–7 lead at the half.
In the third quarter Pittsburgh took back the momentum, scoring a field goal on their first drive followed by an Ike Taylor interception of Palmer on the Bengals' first drive of the half, setting up the Steelers on the Bengals' 7. Parker scored 4 plays later giving the Steelers a 17–14 lead.
After the touchdown, neither offense could get on track with the next seven drives ending in either punts or turnovers. With 8 minutes left in the game, the Bengals were forced to punt. A muffed return by Ricardo Colclough and subsequent recovery by the Bengals' Tony Stewart gave the Bengals the ball on the Steelers' 9. Palmer connect with T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh, Jr. is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State. Houshmandzadeh is of mixed...
on the first play from scrimmage giving the Bengals a 21–17 lead. The Bengal defense responded by forcing a fumble on the next Steeler drive, giving the offense the ball on the Steeler 30-yard line. On the first play of the drive, Palmer again went to Houshmandzadeh in the end zone, connecting for a 30 yard touchdown and extending the lead to 28–17. The Steeler offense returned on the next possession, driving to the Bengals' 18 and adding another Jeff Reed field goal. After forcing a Bengal 3-and-out, the Steelers received the ball on their own 11 with 2:42 to play in the game. Roethlisberger was able to drive the Steelers down to the Bengals' 16 yard line, however the game effectively ended when a pass intended for Nate Washington in the end zone was intercepted by Kevin Kaesviharn.
The Bengals showed maturity and patience in an important win against the Steelers while improving to 3–0. However, the Bengals allowed 6 sacks, gave up 3 turnovers and were unable to involve either of the "Johnsons" as a significant part of the offense. The Bengals looked to improve in week 4 at home against the Patriots.
Aftermath
Odell ThurmanOdell Thurman
Odell Lamar Thurman is an American football linebacker for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Georgia....
was arrested for a DUI with teammates Chris Henry and Reggie McNeal
Reggie McNeal
Reginald Parrish McNeal is a quarterback and wide receiver in the Canadian Football League with the Edmonton Eskimos. He played college football at Texas A&M University.-High school career:...
in the vehicle. Odell had just entered the 3rd game of a 4 game suspension for violating the NFL's drug policy. The NFL suspended him for the remainder of the season.
Week 4: vs. New England Patriots
at Paul Brown StadiumPaul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio. Cincinnati is the county seat of Hamilton County. Settled in 1788, the city is located to north of the Ohio River at the Ohio-Kentucky border, near Indiana. The population within city limits is 296,943 according to the 2010 census, making it Ohio's...
The Bengals quarterback protection issues seemed to continue as Palmer was sacked an additional four times during this game. This was a major change to last year's success in that area, where Palmer was sacked only 21 times for the entire year. Already, this year, he's been sacked 16 times. For the offense and defense the running game proved problematic. Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
failed to gain 50 yards on the ground while the Patriots' running backs, former Bengal Corey Dillon
Corey Dillon
Corey James Dillon is a former American football running back. He played his ten-season career for the Cincinnati Bengals and the New England Patriots, wearing jersey number 28 for both teams. Dillon played college football the University of Washington where he wore the number 4.-High school...
and rookie RB Laurence Maroney
Laurence Maroney
Laurence Maroney is an American football running back who is currently a free agent in the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots 21st overall in the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Minnesota.-Early years:Maroney attended Normandy Senior High School in St...
, combined for 192 rushing yards. Even Patriots QB Tom Brady
Tom Brady
Thomas Edward Patrick "Tom" Brady, Jr. is an American football quarterback for the New England Patriots of the National Football League . After playing college football at Michigan, Brady was drafted by the Patriots in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft.He has played in four Super Bowls,...
uncharacteristically got into the act with a 22-yard scamper, even though he's usually considered a run-shy player. Caleb Miller
Caleb Miller
Caleb Miller is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2004 NFL Draft...
started in the right linebacker position and led the Bengals in tackles during the game.
The passing offense for the Bengals appeared largely unsuccessful. Although WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh gained 94 yards, his starting counterpart, WR Chad Johnson, did not gain more than 70. WR Chris Henry was deactivated for the game for what was believed to be a disciplinary measure by Head Coach Marvin Lewis
Marvin Lewis
Marvin Ronald Lewis is the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League, a position he has held since January 14, 2003...
for his involvement in Odell Thurman
Odell Thurman
Odell Lamar Thurman is an American football linebacker for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Georgia....
's DUI incident.
This was the first game that Corey Dillon played at Paul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
as a non-Bengal during a regular season game. His controversial behavior in his latter years with the Bengals made him a target for anger for many Bengals' fans. According to post-game reports, Dillon waved the rookie running back off the field when the Patriots were close to scoring a touchdown so Dillon could run it in himself. When he did he threw the football into the stands and proceeded to celebrate with such length and production, he drew a flag for a personal foul from the referees. Typically an NFL ball that made it to stands is considered a rare souvenir, but because of Dillon's reputation within the Bengals' fan base, the ball was rejected by the fans and tossed back onto the field instead.
The Cincinnati Bengals
Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals are a professional football team based in Cincinnati, Ohio. They are members of the AFC's North Division in the National Football League . The Bengals began play in 1968 as an expansion team in the American Football League , and joined the NFL in 1970 in the AFL-NFL...
fell to second place in the AFC North (3–1) after a disappointing loss to the New England Patriots
New England Patriots
The New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National...
, 38–13. Going into the bye-week, there is an expectation of the extra weekend will give some injured Bengals the time they need to return and play. Historically speaking, Lewis has done a great job with the first game after a bye, having won the majority of those games but as coach for the Bengals his record to this point was 1–2.
Week 5: Bye
The NFL determined Chris Henry would be suspended for the next 2 NFL games due to his involvement with the DUI incident involving Odell Thurman.Week 6: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
at Raymond James StadiumRaymond James Stadium
Raymond James Stadium, also known as the "Ray Jay", is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Tampa, Florida. It is home to the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers as well as the NCAA's South Florida Bulls football team. The stadium seats 65,857 , and it is expandable to 75,000 for special events...
, Tampa, Florida
Tampa, Florida
Tampa is a city in the U.S. state of Florida. It serves as the county seat for Hillsborough County. Tampa is located on the west coast of Florida. The population of Tampa in 2010 was 335,709....
Hoping to rebound from their home loss to the Patriots, the Bengals flew to Raymond James Stadium
Raymond James Stadium
Raymond James Stadium, also known as the "Ray Jay", is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Tampa, Florida. It is home to the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers as well as the NCAA's South Florida Bulls football team. The stadium seats 65,857 , and it is expandable to 75,000 for special events...
for a Week 6 fight with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional American football franchise based in Tampa, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the Southern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League – they are the only team in the division not to come from the old NFC West...
. After a scoreless first quarter, Cincinnati took an early lead, as QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completed a 33-yard TD pass to WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh for the only score of the half. In the third quarter, the Bucs would tie the game, as QB Bruce Gradkowski
Bruce Gradkowski
Bruce Raymond Gradkowski is an American Football quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft after playing college football at Toledo.Gradkowski has previously been a member of the Tampa...
completed a 2-yard TD pass to TE Alex Smith
Alex Smith (tight end)
Edwin Alexander "Alex" Smith , is an American football tight end for the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
, but the Bengals would regain the lead as kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
kicked a 37-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Graham would help Cincinnati increase the lead with a 47-yard field goal. During the last drive for the Buccaneers, on 1st down after penetrating the Bengals' 20 yard line close to scoring, DE Justin Smith apparently made the first sack of Gradkowski for the game during a solo tackle, however, the officiating crew felt Smith tackled the QB in such a way as to have driven the QB's head into the ground and penalized the Bengals for roughing the passer. The call is currently being reviewed by the league but a public statement will probably never be made by the NFL officiating committee if the call was errant or not (the NFL later reviewed the play and sent a letter of apology to the Bengals for the bad call). During the apparent sack, Smith caused a fumble which was recovered by the Bengals, with less than 2 minutes left on the clock and the Bucs with no time outs. When the play was overturned due to the controversial call, Tampa Bay managed to win on an 8-yard TD pass from Gradkowski to WR Michael Clayton later in the drive. Originally, it was ruled incomplete, but replay reviews managed to see that Clayton managed to break the plane of the goal line before losing the ball. With less than 1:30 minutes left in the game the Bengals drove from their 30 to the Bucs' side of the field and tried an extremely long 62-yard field goal against the prevailing winds and missed. With the loss, Cincinnati hold a 3–2 record. Lewis' win/loss ratio after the bye with the Bengals fell to 1–3.
Aftermath
Penalty ControversyIn a post-game interview when Marvin Lewis
Marvin Lewis
Marvin Ronald Lewis is the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League, a position he has held since January 14, 2003...
was asked how Justin Smith might have avoided drawing the controversial roughing the passer penalty during the attempted sack, he responded "I don’t know. I guess you have to cuddle him to the ground."
Other comments
Justin Smith said "I've never seen anything like that in my six years in the NFL." The official who made the call "must have season tickets down here." He further explained ""The dude (QB) ducked", suggesting it wasn't the force of Smith tackling but the QB's effort to double-over and protect the ball that made it appear he was being forced into the ground head first.
Houshmandzadeh said "You might as well put a red jersey on (Gradkowski) and play two-hand touch."
Week 7: vs. Carolina Panthers
at Paul Brown StadiumPaul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio. Cincinnati is the county seat of Hamilton County. Settled in 1788, the city is located to north of the Ohio River at the Ohio-Kentucky border, near Indiana. The population within city limits is 296,943 according to the 2010 census, making it Ohio's...
Hoping to rebound from their embarrassing loss to the Bucs, the Bengals went home for a showdown with the Carolina Panthers
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are currently members of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Panthers, along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, joined the NFL as expansion...
. In the first quarter, things didn't start out good for Cincinnati as Panthers QB Jake Delhomme
Jake Delhomme
Jake Christopher Delhomme is an American football quarterback for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. Delhomme played college football at Louisiana-Lafayette before being signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 1997...
completed a 7-yard TD pass to TE Kris Mangum
Kris Mangum
Kris Thomas Mangum is a former American football player who played tight end for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League throughout his entire NFL career. He attended the University of Mississippi. His father, John Mangum, Sr. and his brother, John Mangum, Jr...
for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Bengals managed to get on the board with QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completing a 16-yard TD pass to TE Reggie Kelly
Reggie Kelly
Reginald Kuta Kelly is an American football tight end for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Falcons in the second round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He played college football at Mississippi State.He also played for the Cincinnati Bengals.-College career:Kelly...
. However, Carolina would respond with Delhomme completing a 20-yard TD pass to RB Nick Goings
Nick Goings
Nick Aaron Goings is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent in 2001...
. Fortunately, in the second half of the game, it was all Cincinnati, with kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
nailing a 23-yard field goal in the third quarter and Palmer completing a 1-yard TD pass to WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh, Jr. is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State. Houshmandzadeh is of mixed...
. The drive which led to Housh's (a nickname used by local radio commentators for Houshmandzadeh) was kept alive by an uncharacteristically risky play. On 4th and 1 instead of the expected, and typically successful quarterback push in the middle or a short-yardage dive play involving a running back, the Bengals ran a "play action pass". Carson tossed a high arching pass down the sideline where a sprinting Chad Johnson caught up to it and made a tumbling catch just out of the reach of the defender for a 32-yard gain. The Panthers' last scoring opportunity was thwarted by Delhomme's first interception ever thrown as a Panther when in the opponent's 20 yard line. Kevin Kaesviharn
Kevin Kaesviharn
Kevin Robert Kaesviharn is an American football safety who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Iowa Barnstormers as a street free agent in 1998...
made the interception to end the threat, much like the pass he intercepted during the Steeler's game earlier this year. This game saw the return of 3rd down running back specialist Chris Perry and safety Dexter Jackson. With the victory, the Bengals improved to 4–2, tying the Ravens for the lead in the AFC North.
Aftermath
There has been some speculation that the Panthers game may prove to be a pivotal moment in the Bengals' season. Specifically a focus on the daring 4th and 1 play that went for 32 yards. The somewhat downtrodden Bengals' offense is expected to have gained some confidence after their showing.During this time period the Bengals' held a workout for former Bengal Peter Warrick
Peter Warrick
Peter Warrick is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals fourth overall in the 2000 NFL Draft...
. This appears to be in response to their thinning receiving corps.
After being relatively silent for most of the season Chad Johnson spoke out boastfully before the Atlanta game predicting he would score multiple touchdowns and damage the defensive back rival, DeAngelo Hall
DeAngelo Hall
DeAngelo Eugene Hall is an American football cornerback for the Washington Redskins of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons eighth overall in the 2004 NFL Draft...
, into being cut from Atlanta's team. Chad stated he was using this opportunity for the offense to regain some of its confidence and swagger.
Week 8 vs. Atlanta Falcons
at Paul Brown StadiumPaul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio. Cincinnati is the county seat of Hamilton County. Settled in 1788, the city is located to north of the Ohio River at the Ohio-Kentucky border, near Indiana. The population within city limits is 296,943 according to the 2010 census, making it Ohio's...
Following their victory against the Panthers, the Bengals stayed at home for a throwdown with the visiting Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons are a professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
. In the first quarter, the Falcons drew first blood, as kicker Morten Andersen
Morten Andersen
Morten Andersen , nicknamed "The Great Dane", is a former National Football League kicker. He holds the distinction of being the all-time leading scorer in NFL history, as well as being the all-time leading scorer for two different teams; the New Orleans Saints, with whom he spent 13 seasons, and...
nailed a 42-yard field goal. The Bengals would respond with a 1-yard TD run by RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
. Yet, Atlanta drew closer with Andersen kicking a 40-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Cincinnati added on to their lead with QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completing a 12-yard TD pass to WR Chad Johnson. However, the Falcons would respond with QB Michael Vick
Michael Vick
Michael Dwayne Vick is an American football quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League...
completing a 16-yard TD pass to TE Alge Crumpler
Alge Crumpler
-Atlanta Falcons:Crumpler was drafted by the Falcons in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft. Crumpler made the first start of his NFL career against the Carolina Panthers on September 23, 2001. He caught his first two passes for a total of 13 yards. His first touchdown was scored against the...
. Fortunately, the Bengals had kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
nail a 51-yard field goal near the end of the half. In the third quarter, the Falcons started to get some steam with Vick completing a 26-yard TD pass to WR Michael Jenkins. Graham would kick a 26-yard field goal for Cincinnati's only score of the period, yet Vick managed to hook up with FB Justin Griffith
Justin Griffith
Justin Montrel Griffith is an American football fullback for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
, which was followed up with a bobbled snap on the PAT and a failed two-point conversion). In the fourth quarter, Andersen helped the Falcons get a 39-yard field goal and a semi-hefty lead over Cincinnati. The Bengals would respond with Palmer completing a 55-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry. However, on their last drive, any chance for Cincinnati to pull off a comeback ended in a fumble, as the Falcons held on to win, while making the Bengals fall to 4–3.What happened during practice is Chad Johnson, on the back of his name label, it says Ocho Cinco instead of C. Johnson.Soon, Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
ripped it off to reveal C.Johnson.
Week 9: at Baltimore Ravens
at M&T Bank StadiumM&T Bank Stadium
M&T Bank Stadium is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Baltimore, Maryland. It is the home of the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League. The stadium is immediately adjacent to Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the home of the Baltimore Orioles. Served by the Hamburg Street station of...
, Baltimore, Maryland
Hoping to rebound from their home loss to the Falcons, the Bengals flew to M&T Bank Stadium
M&T Bank Stadium
M&T Bank Stadium is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Baltimore, Maryland. It is the home of the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League. The stadium is immediately adjacent to Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the home of the Baltimore Orioles. Served by the Hamburg Street station of...
for an AFC North fight with the Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are a professional football franchise based in Baltimore, Maryland.The Baltimore Ravens are officially a quasi-expansion franchise, having originated in 1995 with the Cleveland Browns relocation controversy after Art Modell, then owner of the Cleveland Browns, announced his...
. From the get-go, the Bengals trailed, as RB Jamal Lewis
Jamal Lewis
Jamal Lafitte Lewis is a former American football running back in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens fifth overall in the 2000 NFL Draft...
got a 2-yard TD run, while QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
got intercepted by CB Samari Rolle
Samari Rolle
Samari Toure Rolle is a retired American football cornerback. He was drafted by the Tennessee Oilers in the second round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He played college football at Florida State....
at Cincinnati's 49-yard line. Rolle would go 24 yards, before lateraling the ball off to Free Safety Ed Reed
Ed Reed
Edward Earl Reed Jr. is an American football free safety for the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Ravens 24th overall in the 2002 NFL Draft...
, who ran the remaining 25 yards for a touchdown. In the second quarter, kicker Matt Stover
Matt Stover
John Matthew "Matt" Stover is a former American Football placekicker. As of the start of the 2009 NFL season, he was the third most accurate kicker in the history of the National Football League. He is of Greek origin. He has played for the New York Giants, the Cleveland Browns, and the Baltimore...
got a 43-yard field goal for the Ravens. The Bengals would finally get a touchdown, as Palmer completed a 26-yard TD pass to WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh, Jr. is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State. Houshmandzadeh is of mixed...
. In the third quarter, Stover got two more field goals for Baltimore (a 25-yarder and a 36-yarder), while Cincinnati kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
nailed a 51-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Bengals started to claw back with RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
getting a 4-yard TD run. However, Stover got another field goal, which was from 35 yards out. Even though Graham would get a 31-yard field goal, the Ravens emerged as the victor, while the Bengals fell to 4–4.
Week 10 vs. San Diego Chargers
at Paul Brown StadiumPaul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio. Cincinnati is the county seat of Hamilton County. Settled in 1788, the city is located to north of the Ohio River at the Ohio-Kentucky border, near Indiana. The population within city limits is 296,943 according to the 2010 census, making it Ohio's...
Hoping to snap their two-game skid, the Bengals went home for a Week 10 match-up of former AFL West rivals with the San Diego Chargers
San Diego Chargers
The San Diego Chargers are a professional American football team based in San Diego, California. they were members of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
. The Bengals started off strong with FB Jeremi Johnson
Jeremi Johnson
Jeremi Ray Johnson is currently a free agent American football fullback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Bengals in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
getting a 3-yard TD run. Afterwards, RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
got a 7-yard TD run and QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completed a 51-yard TD to WR Chad Johnson. In the second quarter, the Chargers managed to get on the board with RB LaDainian Tomlinson
LaDainian Tomlinson
LaDainian Tramayne Tomlinson is an American football running back for the New York Jets of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers fifth overall in the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Texas Christian.Tomlinson, often referred to by his initials, L...
getting a 9-yard TD run. Cincinnati would respond with Palmer completing a 7-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry. For the second half, the points came in huge chunks. In the third quarter, San Diego responded with Tomlinson getting a 4-yard TD run, while QB Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers is an American football quarterback for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League . He was one half of the Manning-Rivers draft trade which sent him to San Diego and the 1st overall pick, Ole Miss quarterback Eli Manning, to the New York Giants. Rivers played college...
completed a 46-yard TD pass to WR Malcom Floyd
Malcom Floyd
Malcom Floyd is an American football wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He played college football at Wyoming...
. The Bengals would respond with kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
getting a 21-yard field goal. The Chargers would strike with Rivers completing a 9-yard TD pass to TE Brandon Manumaleuna
Brandon Manumaleuna
-St. Louis Rams:Manumaleuna was selected in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. He signed with the team on June 21, 2001. He agreed to a three-year $1.15 million contract including a $255,000 signing bonus. In 2001, Manumaleuna only had one reception on the season...
. The Bengals would answer with Palmer completing a 73-yard TD pass to Chad Johnson. In the fourth quarter, the points didn't stop coming in, as San Diego responded with Tomlinson getting a 2-yard TD run and a 9-yard TD run. Cincinnati would get a 44-yard field goal from Graham, but the Chargers wrapped up this high scoring contest with Rivers and Manumaleuna hooking up with each other again on a 5-yard TD pass. With the loss, the Bengals fell to 4–5.
Week 11 at New Orleans Saints
at the Louisiana SuperdomeLouisiana Superdome
The Mercedes-Benz Superdome, previously known as the Louisiana Superdome and colloquially known as the Superdome, is a sports and exhibition arena located in the Central Business District of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA...
, New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a major United States port and the largest city and metropolitan area in the state of Louisiana. The New Orleans metropolitan area has a population of 1,235,650 as of 2009, the 46th largest in the USA. The New Orleans – Metairie – Bogalusa combined statistical area has a population...
Hoping to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, the Bengals traveled to the Louisiana Superdome
Louisiana Superdome
The Mercedes-Benz Superdome, previously known as the Louisiana Superdome and colloquially known as the Superdome, is a sports and exhibition arena located in the Central Business District of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA...
for a Week 11 fight with the New Orleans Saints
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints are a professional American football team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. They are members of the South Division of the National Football Conference of the National Football League ....
. In the first quarter, the Bengals drew first blood as QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completed a 41-yard TD pass to WR Chad Johnson. However, the Saints would reply with QB Drew Brees
Drew Brees
Drew Christopher Brees is a quarterback for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Purdue....
completing a 72-yard TD strike to WR Joe Horn
Joe Horn
Joseph Horn is a retired American football wide receiver. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round of the 1996 NFL Draft, and also played for the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons...
. In the second quarter, Cincinnati took the lead before halftime as kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
nailed a 21-yard field goal. After a scoreless third quarter, New Orleans tried to come back in the fourth quarter, as kicker John Carney nailed a 24-yard field goal. Fortunately, the Bengals offense went into overdrive as Palmer and Johnson connected with each other two more times with a 60-yard TD pass and a 4-yard TD pass. Then, the defense helped out as rookie DB Ethan Kilmer
Ethan Kilmer
Ethan Michael Kilmer is a former American football safety of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2006 NFL Draft...
returned an interception 52 yards for a touchdown. The Saints could managed only one more touchdown, as Brees completed a 27-yard TD pass to WR Terrance Copper
Terrance Copper
Terrance Terrel Copper is an American football wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was signed by the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent...
(with a missed PAT), but the Bengals managed to snap a three-game skid and improve to 5–5.
Week 12: at Cleveland Browns
at Cleveland Browns StadiumCleveland Browns Stadium
-See also:* List of current National Football League stadiums* Chronology of home stadiums for current National Football League teams* List of American football stadiums by capacity* List of U.S. stadiums by capacity* List of North American stadiums by capacity...
, Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio and is the county seat of Cuyahoga County, the most populous county in the state. The city is located in northeastern Ohio on the southern shore of Lake Erie, approximately west of the Pennsylvania border...
Coming off of their impressive road win over the Saints, the Bengals flew to Cleveland Browns Stadium
Cleveland Browns Stadium
-See also:* List of current National Football League stadiums* Chronology of home stadiums for current National Football League teams* List of American football stadiums by capacity* List of U.S. stadiums by capacity* List of North American stadiums by capacity...
for Round 2 of the Battle of Ohio
Battle of Ohio (NFL)
In the National Football League, the Battle of Ohio refers to games played between the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals. This rivalry has produced 2 of the 8 highest scoring games in NFL history...
against the Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns are a professional football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are currently members of the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
. From beginning to end, Cincinnati dominated the game. In the first quarter, the domination began with RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
getting a 1-yard TD run for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completed a 7-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry, while kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
completed a 24-yard field goal. In the third quarter, Palmer would hook up with WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh, Jr. is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State. Houshmandzadeh is of mixed...
on a 6-yard TD pass (with a failed PAT) for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Palmer and Henry would hook up one more time on a 10-yard TD pass. With their second-straight sweep over Cleveland, the Bengals improved to 6–5.
Week 13: vs. Baltimore Ravens
at Paul Brown StadiumPaul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio. Cincinnati is the county seat of Hamilton County. Settled in 1788, the city is located to north of the Ohio River at the Ohio-Kentucky border, near Indiana. The population within city limits is 296,943 according to the 2010 census, making it Ohio's...
Coming off of their dominate road win over the Browns, the Bengals went home for a Thursday Night fight in an AFC North rematch against the Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are a professional football franchise based in Baltimore, Maryland.The Baltimore Ravens are officially a quasi-expansion franchise, having originated in 1995 with the Cleveland Browns relocation controversy after Art Modell, then owner of the Cleveland Browns, announced his...
. After a scoreless first quarter, kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
helped the Bengals draw first blood with a 23-yard and a 27-yard field goal. In the third quarter, things went even better as QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completed a 40-yard TD pass to WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh, Jr. is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State. Houshmandzadeh is of mixed...
on a flea flicker for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, the Ravens had a late comeback as QB Steve McNair
Steve McNair
Stephen LaTreal McNair was an American football quarterback who spent the majority of his NFL career with the Tennessee Titans....
completed a 36-yard TD pass to WR Derrick Mason
Derrick Mason
Derrick James Mason is an American football wide receiver for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tennessee Oilers in the fourth round of the 1997 NFL Draft. He played college football at Michigan State.Mason has also played for the Baltimore Ravens where he...
, but fortunately, the Bengals squashed any chance of Baltimore's comeback by succeeding on the onside kick. With the win, the Bengals improved to 7–5. Shane Graham missed the 1st extra point attempt in his entire career as it was blocked bringing his 158 success streak to an end. Chris Perry suffered another season-ending injury during this game and has not played a full season of professional football in his career yet.
Between weeks 14 and 15
Deltha O'Neal became the 8th Bengal since the 2005 – 2006 season to be arrested. He was charged with drunk driving. He did not play in the next game but had been nursing a nagging injury for many previous weeks. It was not clear if he did not play as a disciplinary measure or due to the injury.Week 14: vs. Oakland Raiders
at Paul Brown StadiumPaul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio. Cincinnati is the county seat of Hamilton County. Settled in 1788, the city is located to north of the Ohio River at the Ohio-Kentucky border, near Indiana. The population within city limits is 296,943 according to the 2010 census, making it Ohio's...
The 2–10 Raiders came into Paul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
Kevin Malone was at this game in which with a highly-ranked pass defense and poorly ranked offense. Even though QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
uncharacteristically threw 3 interceptions and RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
fumbled the ball away, the 4 turnovers given to the Raiders were not enough for their offense to mount any consistent scoring efforts. Graham missed another extra point but it was unblocked. Cincinnati also did not punt once during this game. For the first time in Bengals' history, four players were over 100 yards in offensive production (Carson, Houshmandzadeh, Chad and Rudi Johnson). The Bengals' defense, although facing an unproductive Raiders' offense, continued their dominance.
After going on this 4-game win streak, and various AFC teams contending for the wild card spots losing on week 14, the Bengals regained control of their own destiny in regards to the playoffs while improving to 8–5. The next week they would go to Indianapolis to face the Colts. The possibility of the Bengals winning the AFC North division was still alive.
Week 15: at Indianapolis Colts
at the RCA DomeRCA Dome
RCA Dome was a domed stadium, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, and the home of the Indianapolis Colts NFL franchise for 24 seasons ....
, Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis is the capital of the U.S. state of Indiana, and the county seat of Marion County, Indiana. As of the 2010 United States Census, the city's population is 839,489. It is by far Indiana's largest city and, as of the 2010 U.S...
Following their victory over the Raiders, the Bengals flew to the RCA Dome
RCA Dome
RCA Dome was a domed stadium, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, and the home of the Indianapolis Colts NFL franchise for 24 seasons ....
for a Monday Night fight with the Indianapolis Colts
Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts are a professional American football team based in Indianapolis. They are currently members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League ....
. In the first quarter, things started off slow with Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri
Adam Vinatieri
Adam Matthew Vinatieri is an American football placekicker currently playing for the Indianapolis Colts. He has played in six Super Bowls, four with the New England Patriots and two with the Colts, winning four. Vinatieri won a Super Bowl in 2006 with Indianapolis and won Super Bowls in 2001,...
nailing 30-yard field goal, while kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
got a 27-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Indianapolis took the lead with QB Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning
Peyton Williams Manning is an American football quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League . Manning holds the record for most NFL MVP awards with four. He was drafted by the Colts as the first overall pick in 1998 after a standout college football career with the...
completed a 4-yard TD pass to WR Marvin Harrison
Marvin Harrison
Marvin Daniel Harrison is a former American football wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the 1996 NFL Draft. He played college football at Syracuse...
. Cincinnati responded with RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
got a 12-yard TD run. However, Manning hooked up with Harrison again on a 3-yard TD pass. In the third quarter, the Bengals managed to have Graham kick a 30-yard field goal. However, things got worse with Manning completing a 1-yard TD pass to Harrison while completing an 18-yard TD pass to WR Reggie Wayne
Reggie Wayne
Reginald "Reggie" Wayne is a professional American football wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League. Wayne was selected in the 1st round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the Colts...
. In the fourth quarter, Cincinnati's only response was Graham's 28-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Colts wrapped the game up with Vinatieri's 44-yard field goal. With the loss, not only did the Bengals fall to 8–6, but their loss allowed their division rival, the Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are a professional football franchise based in Baltimore, Maryland.The Baltimore Ravens are officially a quasi-expansion franchise, having originated in 1995 with the Cleveland Browns relocation controversy after Art Modell, then owner of the Cleveland Browns, announced his...
, to win the division.
Week 16: at Denver Broncos
at Invesco Field at Mile HighINVESCO Field at Mile High
Sports Authority Field at Mile High, previously known as Invesco Field at Mile High, and commonly known as Mile High, is a multi-purpose stadium, in Denver, Colorado. It replaced the identically sized, but commercially obsolete Mile High Stadium in 2001...
, Denver, Colorado
Denver, Colorado
The City and County of Denver is the capital and the most populous city of the U.S. state of Colorado. Denver is a consolidated city-county, located in the South Platte River Valley on the western edge of the High Plains just east of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains...
Trying to rebound from their road loss to the Colts, the Bengals flew to Invesco Field at Mile High
INVESCO Field at Mile High
Sports Authority Field at Mile High, previously known as Invesco Field at Mile High, and commonly known as Mile High, is a multi-purpose stadium, in Denver, Colorado. It replaced the identically sized, but commercially obsolete Mile High Stadium in 2001...
for a snowy Week 16 intraconference fight with the Denver Broncos
Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos are a professional American football team based in Denver, Colorado. They are currently members of the West Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
. In the first quarter, Cincinnati struck first with RB Rudi Johnson
Rudi Johnson
Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson is a former American football running back who played professionally from 2001 - 2008. Rudi was born in Petersburg, Virginia approximately 30 miles south of Richmond. His first name "Burudi" is Swahili and means "cool'" and his middle name "Ali" represented his family's...
's 6-yard TD run for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Broncos struck back with QB Jay Cutler
Jay Cutler (American football)
Jay Christopher Cutler is a quarterback for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League. He played football at Vanderbilt University. Cutler began his professional football career with the Denver Broncos, who selected him as the 11th overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft...
completing a 1-yard TD pass to TE Tony Scheffler
Tony Scheffler
-Denver Broncos:Scheffler was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. After seeing limited playing time early in the season, Scheffler saw increased playing time and production after Jay Cutler was inserted as the Broncos starting quarterback on December 3, 2006,...
and a 39-yard TD pass to WR Javon Walker
Javon Walker
Javon Lataff Walker is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers 20th overall of the 2002 NFL Draft. He played college football at Florida State....
. Fortunately, the Bengals pounced back into the lead with kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
's 46-yard field goal and QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
's 11-yard TD pass WR Chris Henry. However, in the second half, Denver pulled ahead with RB Mike Bell
Mike Bell (football player)
-Denver Broncos:Bell entered the 2006 NFL Draft, but went undrafted. He was signed as an undrafted free agent on May 8, 2006 by the Denver Broncos.Bell had a very strong training camp, and before the Broncos first preseason game, Bell was promoted to the starting tailback position...
's 2-yard TD run in the third quarter and kicker Jason Elam
Jason Elam
Jason Elam is a retired American football placekicker. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He played college football at Hawaii....
's 24-yard field goal. Cincinnati would pull within one point with Palmer's 10-yard TD pass to WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh
T. J. Houshmandzadeh, Jr. is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State. Houshmandzadeh is of mixed...
. Unfortunately, on the extra point attempt, punter/holder Kyle Larson
Kyle Larson
Kyle Larson is an American football punter who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He played college football at Nebraska.-Early years:...
had the snap go right through his hands, securing the loss. With that, the Bengals fell to 8–7.
Week 17 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
at Paul Brown StadiumPaul Brown Stadium
Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and...
, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio. Cincinnati is the county seat of Hamilton County. Settled in 1788, the city is located to north of the Ohio River at the Ohio-Kentucky border, near Indiana. The population within city limits is 296,943 according to the 2010 census, making it Ohio's...
Trying to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, the Bengals wrapped up their regular season at home with a crucial AFC North rematch game against the Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The team currently belongs to the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Founded in , the Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC...
. The Bengals had two possible options for reaching the post-season 1 – A Bengals win and a Jets
New York Jets
The New York Jets are a professional football team headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, representing the New York metropolitan area. The team is a member of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
loss, or 2 – A Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs are a professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri. They are a member of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Originally named the Dallas Texans, the club was founded by Lamar Hunt in 1960 as a...
win, a Denver Broncos
Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos are a professional American football team based in Denver, Colorado. They are currently members of the West Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
loss and a Bengals win. After a scoreless first quarter, the Steelers struck first with RB Willie Parker
Willie Parker
"Fast" Willie Everette Parker Jr. is an American football running back for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He played college football at North Carolina...
scoring a 1-yard TD run. Afterwards, Cincinnati would manage to score with kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
nailing a 34-yard field goal. After a scoreless third quarter, the Bengals would take the lead after recovering a Willie Parker
Willie Parker
"Fast" Willie Everette Parker Jr. is an American football running back for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He played college football at North Carolina...
fumble on the 1-yard-line, when QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completed a 66-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry. Afterwards, Pittsburgh retook the lead with Parker getting another 1-yard TD run. Cincinnati would then jump back into the lead with Palmer completing a 5-yard TD pass to TE Tony Stewart
Tony Stewart
Anthony Wayne "Tony" Stewart is an American auto racing driver and owner. Throughout his racing career, Stewart has won titles in Indy cars and stock cars as well as midget, sprint and USAC Silver Crown cars, giving him the recognition of "one of the finest racers of his generation."Stewart...
. The Steelers would manage to tie the game late in the 4th period with kicker Jeff Reed
Jeff Reed (football)
Jeffrey "Jeff" Montgomery Reed is a National Football League placekicker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2002...
's 35-yard field goal, yet the Bengals managed to quickly move into field goal range. However, Graham's game-winning 39-yard field goal attempt went wide right. In overtime, the Steelers won with QB Ben Roethlisberger
Ben Roethlisberger
Benjamin Todd "Ben" Roethlisberger , nicknamed Big Ben, is an American football quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Steelers in the first round in the 2004 NFL Draft...
completing a 67-yard TD pass to WR Santonio Holmes
Santonio Holmes
Santonio Holmes Jr. is an American football wide receiver for the New York Jets of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft after playing college football at Ohio State...
. With the loss, not only did Cincinnati fall to 8–8, but their three-straight losses to end the season denied the Bengals of their playoff chances. In a cruel twist of fate, the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars are a professional American football team based in Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
and the Denver Broncos
Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos are a professional American football team based in Denver, Colorado. They are currently members of the West Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
lost to the San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers are a professional American football team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team was founded in 1946 as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference and...
meaning that the Bengals cost themselves the post-season and ensured that Cincinnati would once again have nothing invested in the playoffs. It was Marvin Lewis' third 8 – 8 season in his four years as the Bengals head coach.