question from non bengal fan

[Skinnyfats]

After the next 4 games for the Bengals that will really tell us what the Bengals have in the tank. Still a long way to go but with so many young players who are going to get better and better.

 

[flamingrey]

They should be able to take care of Seattle without a problem.

It's the following 6 games that I believe will tell the biggest story. Going into the stretch run with several opponents - including divisional ones - that will all be fighting for their playoff lives. Tennessee and Houston are already in a catfight for their division. Pittsburgh (twice) and Baltimore both will be eyeing each other in the standings and possibly even us depending on our record going into those games.

Personally, I am not as optimistic as others, but this run could have implications on how we enter next season. Win a bunch and we'll be even more confident next season (and possibly even the playoffs). Lose a bunch and that question of whether we can compete with the big boys in our division will be asked by all the pundits and will linger throughout the offseason.

 

[futballiscool]

Even after the fast start I'll consider 8-8 a good season. the division is too tough to expect anything better.

But the young pieces are there for the team to be very good next season. Plus they'll control the draft with 2 first rd picks. if they covet a top 10 pick they have the firepower to tradeup. they can trade down and stockpile.. They're set at most premium positions: QB (assuming Dalton continues at this pace), OT, pass rusher, CB (Hall's good, Clements servicable)...

this is unequivocally the best I've felt about the team long-term since 2005..

I wouldn't hesitate to promote Zimmer though. otherwise I think he's gone after this season

 

[DanBengalfan]

I expect our team to continue to grow and be better next season than they are this season.

We are just one game above .500 after playing some shitty teams and barely beating them. If we do make the playoffs this year, it will be fortunate, and a testament to the quick learning of our young players.

 

[flamingrey]

Anyone know which divisions we're playing next season? Depending on that, I'm not sure how much "better" we'll be.

 

[cincygrad]

We get to play the AFC-W and NFC-E....

Future Opponents - Cincinnati Bengals

San Diego and Oakland will be good teams, but it's hard to know what you'll get with Denver and KC. I think they are both in transition. The NFC-E is always tough - Well, maybe not Washington, but you get the idea!

 

[DanBengalfan]

yea, there is some serious star power in the NFC-E, but, those teams are all having some issues this season.