Sarlacc83
Active member
Incomplete. A constant stream of defensive lineman in the backfield leads to TFLs, holds, and sacks. The offense is predicated on staying on schedule and far too often we saw 3rd and 10+ because of the o-line issues. Moreover, this was a completely new team they were playing. It wasn't going to be an instant adjustment until they had enough information to adjust against.
And when there were big plays (Penny's 20 yarder or Lockett getting free), something went wrong (hold / drop).
Even so, early one, they got Metcalf involved to compensate for the Lockett double teams. But Jaron Brown and Malik Turner being non-existent didn't help.
So, ultimately, it was hyper-conservative, but there were glimmers of hope. It'll take another few games to get a read, just like every year with this team.
Edit: Moreover with competent refereeing re: Clowney, a number of Bengals drives probably stall out due to those holds, and the offensive numbers between the teams even out.
And when there were big plays (Penny's 20 yarder or Lockett getting free), something went wrong (hold / drop).
Even so, early one, they got Metcalf involved to compensate for the Lockett double teams. But Jaron Brown and Malik Turner being non-existent didn't help.
So, ultimately, it was hyper-conservative, but there were glimmers of hope. It'll take another few games to get a read, just like every year with this team.
Edit: Moreover with competent refereeing re: Clowney, a number of Bengals drives probably stall out due to those holds, and the offensive numbers between the teams even out.