Surprisingly, I am not too disappointed...

[JoePong]

I remember how upset I was after the 2005 playoffs. I thought that team could really do some damage in the playoffs. Then to have it ripped away by Palmer's injury was devastating.

This year seems different though. I had high expectations before the season and thought we could really challenge for the AFC title. But as the season got underway, and seeing how inept our offense was, I didn't really think we had a chance to beat anyone in the playoffs.

I took a lot of heat on this board for bashing our offense and how they are incapable of scoring more than 16 or 17 points in a game. People told me it didn't matter, that we were doing what we had to win, and getting Ws was all that mattered. I knew that wasn't true. I knew we we would be one-and-done in the playoffs with our lousy passing game. Forget all this crap about defense and the running game. You have to be able to throw the ball in the NFL. We were able to beat the teams in our division, but totally unable to compete with other AFC teams.

We were 1-6 against AFC teams outside our division!!! Think about that. (Another fact that people kept telling me didn't matter)

I am a kind of surprised at how I am almost relieved that this season is over. There are some things we can build on, get some injured players back, and try to fix the passing game, and come back next year with a real contender.

[fattyjay]

I'm disappointed, but I'm going snowboarding tomorrow so I'll quickly get over it. Look forward to the draft I guess.

[kingwilly]

I remember how upset I was after the 2005 playoffs. I thought that team could really do some damage in the playoffs. Then to have it ripped away by Palmer's injury was devastating.

This year seems different though. I had high expectations before the season and thought we could really challenge for the AFC title. But as the season got underway, and seeing how inept our offense was, I didn't really think we had a chance to beat anyone in the playoffs.

I took a lot of heat on this board for bashing our offense and how they are incapable of scoring more than 16 or 17 points in a game. People told me it didn't matter, that we were doing what we had to win, and getting Ws was all that mattered. I knew that wasn't true. I knew we we would be one-and-done in the playoffs with our lousy passing game. Forget all this crap about defense and the running game. You have to be able to throw the ball in the NFL. We were able to beat the teams in our division, but totally unable to compete with other AFC teams.

We were 1-6 against AFC teams outside our division!!! Think about that. (Another fact that people kept telling me didn't matter)

I am a kind of surprised at how I am almost relieved that this season is over. There are some things we can build on, get some injured players back, and try to fix the passing game, and come back next year with a real contender.

a little too early for a smug "I knew it" - "I told you so" themed post. Almost surprised you didn't roll one of these out when Cheech passed.

The real sting comes from knowing they can win these games and win with Defense. They do need to improve in some areas, replace a few spots and get Palmer healthy (if possible).

for those who cannot appreciate what the Bengals were able to do in turning it around after last year, then they can go blow a goat.

if the Bengals fail to clearly do what should be obviously necessary, then maybe roll out a "Told you so" post.

[HoosierCat]

Surprisingly, Joe, I find I don't give a sh*t whether you're disappointed or not...

[Kazkal]

Well I'm not disappointed in the season still feel it after todays game...But the team made huge improvements and if continues to correct it's weakness's we can have a better year....Hopefully they don't sit on the problems and say this is good enough (Extending Graham,Brat & letting Zimmer walk.)

[ArmyBengal]

Disappointed ?? Sure I am. I'm pissed off, but here's something else that I've seen glanced over from time to time the last few weeks.

This isn't the same team that was able to play that tough defensive style early on in the season that resulted in a sweep of the division.

THAT team had Odom that needed to be accounted for and capable of getting a pass rush. THAT team had Roy Williams that brought an attitude that seemed to rub off on everyone when they took the field. THAT team had Maualuga running around making plays. THAT team just HAD IT. The team we've seen the last portion of the season didn't and when it counted the most, it cost them.

I'm still optimistic heading into next season and I think another solid draft and healthy players could result in another playoff appearance.

Sorry, just how I see it.

[semiotter]

One Good thing about the Bengals losing today is I won't have to see all the "Negative" posts from this guy Geeeez its like a freaking broken record.

[derekshank]

Disappointed ?? Sure I am. I'm pissed off, but here's something else that I've seen glanced over from time to time the last few weeks.

This isn't the same team that was able to play that tough defensive style early on in the season that resulted in a sweep of the division.

THAT team had Odom that needed to be accounted for and capable of getting a pass rush. THAT team had Roy Williams that brought an attitude that seemed to rub off on everyone when they took the field. THAT team had Maualuga running around making plays. THAT team just HAD IT. The team we've seen the last portion of the season didn't and when it counted the most, it cost them.

I'm still optimistic heading into next season and I think another solid draft and healthy players could result in another playoff appearance.

Sorry, just how I see it.

Well, Roy and Odom weren't around the second time we played the Ravens and Steelers... but your point is still valid. This team had too many injuries.

I'm not sure how many injuries other teams had... but we all know how much the Steelers cry about being without Polamalu... and he's just one guy. The Bengals were thin at D-Line nearly the entire season, and it only got thinner as time passed, not to mention being without Roy, Rey, Henry, or any TE whatsoever.

Seems like it happens every year, and it's part of the game... but I think the Bengals did a fine job of using the talent they had available to them... at least on defense. Offense was the weak part of this team from the beginning, and the offseason should probably be focused on more pass protection (O-Line/TE) reteaching Palmer throwing technique, and another weapon for him to throw to.

[ShulaSteakhouse]

The Bengals will not do what it takes to keep the momentum going or improve this off-season. We saw that after that 2005, and 4 years later they finally got back (only to lose again and go 3-5 in Dec/Jan).

THAT is my problem. It's why Ocho-Noshow was crying on the sidelines, he knows he may never get back to the playoffs again in his lifetime. Carson acts like he could care less about anything.

And oh yeah, who needs a silly indoor practice facility, when this team obviously, already plays so well in December and January?

Obviously the kids soccer complex is doing wonders for their preparation. 1st class.

[Jet23]

The Bengals will not do what it takes to keep the momentum going or improve this off-season. We saw that after that 2005, and 4 years later they finally got back (only to lose again and go 3-5 in Dec/Jan).

THAT is my problem. It's why Ocho-Noshow was crying on the sidelines, he knows he may never get back to the playoffs again in his lifetime. Carson acts like he could care less about anything.

And oh yeah, who needs a silly indoor practice facility, when this team obviously, already plays so well in December and January?

Obviously the kids soccer complex is doing wonders for their preparation. 1st class.

Unpopular post alert.....unpopular post alert!!!!!!!!!!!!! Get 'em guys!

[BengalszoneBilly]

The Bengals will not do what it takes to keep the momentum going or improve this off-season. We saw that after that 2005, and 4 years later they finally got back (only to lose again and go 3-5 in Dec/Jan).

THAT is my problem. It's why Ocho-Noshow was crying on the sidelines, he knows he may never get back to the playoffs again in his lifetime. Carson acts like he could care less about anything.

And oh yeah, who needs a silly indoor practice facility, when this team obviously, already plays so well in December and January?

Obviously the kids soccer complex is doing wonders for their preparation. 1st class.

Unpopular post alert.....unpopular post alert!!!!!!!!!!!!! Get 'em guys!

Shula has never cared about the popularity of his posts.

[kingwilly]

Disappointed ?? Sure I am. I'm pissed off, but here's something else that I've seen glanced over from time to time the last few weeks.

This isn't the same team that was able to play that tough defensive style early on in the season that resulted in a sweep of the division.

THAT team had Odom that needed to be accounted for and capable of getting a pass rush. THAT team had Roy Williams that brought an attitude that seemed to rub off on everyone when they took the field. THAT team had Maualuga running around making plays. THAT team just HAD IT. The team we've seen the last portion of the season didn't and when it counted the most, it cost them.

I'm still optimistic heading into next season and I think another solid draft and healthy players could result in another playoff appearance.

Sorry, just how I see it.

Well, Roy and Odom weren't around the second time we played the Ravens and Steelers... but your point is still valid. This team had too many injuries.

I'm not sure how many injuries other teams had... but we all know how much the Steelers cry about being without Polamalu... and he's just one guy. The Bengals were thin at D-Line nearly the entire season, and it only got thinner as time passed, not to mention being without Roy, Rey, Henry, or any TE whatsoever.

Seems like it happens every year, and it's part of the game... but I think the Bengals did a fine job of using the talent they had available to them... at least on defense. Offense was the weak part of this team from the beginning, and the offseason should probably be focused on more pass protection (O-Line/TE) reteaching Palmer throwing technique, and another weapon for him to throw to.

Agree.

When Odom went down, I was in panic mode. Then Fanene and Rucker played lights out for a few weeks...and then they ran out of gas, and Peko got nicked up...

I was clamoring for the Bengals to make a play for Kampmann or the like. They HAD the right idea in targeting the Dallas TE... so I give them credit there.

I also give them credit for snagging Larry J.

I see some progress but also some issue in dealing with the reality of managing a contender.

If the Bengals had another viable WR, say a Brandon Marshall or a TJ, or a Boldin, do any of us think the Bengals lose this game the same way?

Ok, yes, they still lose, on the shoulders of Carson and Shayne.

I a slowly realizing the issue is

1. Brat

2. Carson

3. WR's

Losing the game on two broken plays also stings the nostrils. Frostee gettin handled by D'Brick and Hall being held on Greene's scamper and Dhani/NDukwe getting suckered on the TE passes each time.

<still crying> <there is 750ml less glenfiddich in my home this AM>

[ShulaSteakhouse]

The Bengals will not do what it takes to keep the momentum going or improve this off-season. We saw that after that 2005, and 4 years later they finally got back (only to lose again and go 3-5 in Dec/Jan).

THAT is my problem. It's why Ocho-Noshow was crying on the sidelines, he knows he may never get back to the playoffs again in his lifetime. Carson acts like he could care less about anything.

And oh yeah, who needs a silly indoor practice facility, when this team obviously, already plays so well in December and January?

Obviously the kids soccer complex is doing wonders for their preparation. 1st class.

Unpopular post alert.....unpopular post alert!!!!!!!!!!!!! Get 'em guys!

Shula has never cared about the popularity of his posts.

Lol, true. But, this should be a day for constructive venting, not Shula bashing.

I'm waiting for the Bengals' to prove me wrong.

I'm just not satisfied with a "winning record" every 4-5 years. Marvin needs to man-up and demand things from his boss, period. He needs to quit being a company man. It's not working. They have a good team, they can fix what's wrong with it, with some effort. I don't have faith that they will.

[volcom69]

The Bengals will not do what it takes to keep the momentum going or improve this off-season. We saw that after that 2005, and 4 years later they finally got back (only to lose again and go 3-5 in Dec/Jan).

THAT is my problem. It's why Ocho-Noshow was crying on the sidelines, he knows he may never get back to the playoffs again in his lifetime. Carson acts like he could care less about anything.

And oh yeah, who needs a silly indoor practice facility, when this team obviously, already plays so well in December and January?

Obviously the kids soccer complex is doing wonders for their preparation. 1st class.

Unpopular post alert.....unpopular post alert!!!!!!!!!!!!! Get 'em guys!

Whats there to get he is right! What makes us think anything will be different this offseason. This team has no idea how to finish it seems like every december they tank it.

Anybody watch the press confrence from the HC, wow what a joke. Marvin has no fire in him what so ever, no wonder why his team was so flat yesterday. I still have my concerns with Marvin as the head coach, i just think he will never take this team higher then the first playoff game.

[Jet23]

Let's face it; Marvin is not a complete coach. In fact, he is the worst game coach (clock mgmt, challenges, adjustments...) that I have ever seen. But, he is the best that we can expect. He seems to be a decent motivator and the guys seem to like him o.k. He has elevated the Bengals to respectability. That is all the soP has ever wanted.

I would fire ML and hand the job to Zimmer in a heartbeat. But, we all know that Mediocre Marvin has a lifetime job here...

[Stripes]

I don't know if I can handle another offseason filled with irrelevant front office bitching. Well I'd better, I surely have no choice.

It's long been clear to me that the performance of this football team does not impact the mindset of it's most deeply wounded fans. Only a Superbowl victory could ever shake them from the glazed-over hypnosis that's been afflicting them since 1991.

[bpepper]

I don't know if I can handle another offseason filled with irrelevant front office bitching. Well I'd better, I surely have no choice.

It's long been clear to me that the performance of this football team does not impact the mindset of it's most deeply wounded fans. Only a Superbowl victory could ever shake them from the glazed-over hypnosis that's been afflicting them since 1991.

I'm afraid you're spot on there. I was 8 years old in 1991 and have been miserable, but inexplicably loyal and foolishly optimistic for 20 years and with all the crap put on display over the years I need more than 10-6 and a choke job in the wildcard round. Although Marvin's a lousy game coach, I think he's fine and a good motivator apparently. Like someone else said, he just needs to grow some balls and tell MB what he wants, and it's his way or the highway. Sadly, his paycheck seems to entice him not to, but maybe after this year and some coach of the year consideration he can play the "I can get a job elsewhere card" and get something done. I dunno - maybe he likes Brat. I doubt it, but I don't pretend to know what goes on with all these folks I wish I could control via remote, but who certainly don't care what I think.

Life's a b**ch. Super bowl 2011!

[COB]

I am surprised at how optimistic I am about the off season. I don't know if it's the Odom, Utecht, and Coles signings, which all surprised me when they did them, or if it is the deft handling of scrap heap guys (specifically Cedric and Crocker), but the organization seems a lot more proactive than in the past. They sure found a gem in Zimmer.

I feel they'll probably let Brat walk, which I've been hoping for for two years. If so, I hope their streak continues and they get someone good in here. Hue Jackson's name keeps coming up and that would be good.

All the posters who say here's what they should do, but here's what they'll do instead (basically nothing), I hope you are wrong, and like I said above, a lot of what they've done the last two seasons gives me hope that you are wrong.

[ArmyBengal]

Agree with COB here in that, I think the organization has really made strides recently and the hope should be more to thinking it will continue.

That and I think this team is just better off than most who seem to think we are suddenly a 4-12 team again.

[bwillycuse]

Im disappointed in that I dont see us improving on offense next year. I dont see us getting any significant free agents at WR. I dont see the Bengals addressing what is wrong with Palmer. I dont see the Bengals admitting their offensive is weak.

If Brat is still the OC then I can only predict more of the same because he is an old dog. He aint gonna change.

I know I sound pessimistic but this team tanked after they were at 8-3. (And it was a very iffy 8-3 at best).

True colors came out recently and if the issues arent pointed out and corrected. Well...more of the same. IMO

So, Ill wait to renew my season tickets to see what the front office decides to do. (Couldve gotten into the game on Saturday for $10 from scalpers..pretty much the same the whole season...why pay $250 for preseason tix and face value all year when i can get in for peanuts)

Dont retain Zimmer, Keep Brat, And dont extend Benson....ummm I may back out.

[bwillycuse]

Agree with COB here in that, I think the organization has really made strides recently and the hope should be more to thinking it will continue.

That and I think this team is just better off than most who seem to think we are suddenly a 4-12 team again.

With this offense we are 8-8. Without Zimmer we are a below .500 team.

[firemarvinNOW]

If they want to get better they need to stop drafting the Jerome Simpsons and Andres Smiths. Cant be consistent winners missing on picks that high.Smith is a big run blocking tackle at best. We need quicker more agile lineman like a michael oher.

[walzav29]

If they want to get better they need to stop drafting the Jerome Simpsons and Andres Smiths. Cant be consistent winners missing on picks that high.Smith is a big run blocking tackle at best. We need quicker more agile lineman like a michael oher.

You'll see a big difference with an offseason that's not crazy. He had a tough time last season. Suspension for bowl game, Agent issues,holdout, broken foot, being made fun of on HBO hardknocks. All of that will be gone.

[TJJackson]

From my point of view, in the end, it was the loss of one key player after another (starting with but certainly not limited to Odom) to injury that took this team from a good one at the season's start to a mediocre one by season's end.

What I'd like to see done in the offseason

1) Draft high: WR, DE, OG, S

Keep the lines strong, but we need to find a NEW playmaker at WR. One of those spots could be filled with a quality FA.

2) Find some help with injury prevention

Trainers? Nutritionists? Nuclear Scientists? Don't know, don't care. Find'em, hire'em, and get them with the players.

Injuries will still happpen, but let's find a way to reduce the total number ongoing

3) Find a new OC. One with some imagination and the ability to call in a play without delay.

4) Work on flinches. Practice holding stance over and over and over. Eliminate the false starts. Especially by RBs and WRs

5) Find a new placekicker. Shayne - sorry, but it is time to move on. You had a great career here, as a whole.

6) Get a contract extension for the corners

7) Someone - dunno who - keep working with Chase. Every damn day. Make sure he is ready to contribute heavily - 3 down TE, preferably - in 2011.

[Ickey44]

2) Find some help with injury prevention

Trainers? Nutritionists? Nuclear Scientists? Don't know, don't care. Find'em, hire'em, and get them with the players.

Injuries will still happen, but let's find a way to reduce the total number ongoing

You know what? I've got a weird suggestion. Yoga. Remember when TJ missed 2 of his first 3 years? We were all saying release him? He started doing yoga and he still missed a game here or there, but not whole seasons.