Bengals defense is key to a 12-4 season

The defense of line is a good veteran group:
Now that they don’t have to cater to big Sam Adams and all of his talk about showing up on Sundays and simply not doing it, the Bengals can get down to business.  The current line will be practicing everyday, and I am sure they will be working to keep each other accountable.  That’s a good thing.  I believe Justin Smith is worth exactly what he got.  One year and enough money to keep him in a right mind set.  The real beasts of the D-line are Domata Peko and Robert Geathers.  This could be the 1st time in a long time that the Bengals have two d-lineman that might demand a double team on a consistent basis.

Strong and athletic Linebackers:
I like this group.  They are young and athletic, big and strong.  I don’t think they will be missing Brian Simmons very much.  I personally felt Simmons was old and soft not to mention he never had the killer instincts a tough and dominant linebacker needs.  The key for this young group will be knowing their assignments on every play while playing downhill and fast.  The other key will once again be the D-line.  If the D-line can eat up enough space in the box and demand some double teams.  That will make a world of difference.  Isn’t funny how the great NFL linebackers are always running around unblocked and never seem to get touched until the point of contact.

Speed and depth in the Secondary:
The secondary comes next, and they are hands down the most talented on the defense.  They got it all now speed, depth, and internal competition.  Let me emphasize the word competition.  The competition is going to bring out the best in a couple of these guys.  You can bet there are going to be some big hits this year, and that there are some hungry guys back there.  Madieu Williams and Keiwan Ratliff are in the last years of their contracts, and the rookies will want to be heard from.  I would hope to see total focus and big hits all day long from this group.

The final piece of the 12-4 defensive puzzle:
The last piece to becoming a 12-4 defense is Carson Palmer and how he reacts to the 3rd and 6 situation with the blitz coming. Say what you want but if Carson can get the offense into the right play against the blitz and keep moving the chains, it’s going to be a good year for the defense.
Moving the chains means red zone and red zone means points.  Lots of points means the defense can pin their ears back and go after the QB which in turn will lead to big hits and turnovers.  At the end of the year, Carson Palmer will have to be the NFL’s MVP in order for this to be a 12-4 defense.  I like our chances. 

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