After taking a beating in Cleveland, the Bengals needed a bounce back performance against a bottom tier Panthers squad. They did not disappoint, dominating the matchup from start to finish. The offence put up 35 in the 1st half, and most of Carolina’s damage done offensively was essentially in garbage time. There were some kinks in certain phases that still need to be ironed out, but offensively and defensively, it was arguably the team’s most complete game.
The Good:
– RB, Joe Mixon
Mixon absolutely exploded for a career day. The running lanes were often large, but he also looked much more explosive and agile than what we have often seen this year. He averaged 8 yards per carry, and went for 211 yards from scrimmage and 5 total TD’s. It was a statement game for Mixon, after his recent play had been criticized. More of the same would be a huge boost for the Bengals going forward.
– WR, Tee Higgins
With Mixon serving as the main weapon, the passing game wasn’t as critical. That said, Higgins still had a good day, and seemed to be getting open more consistently than he had been last week. He totaled 60 yards on 7 receptions.
– WR, Trent Taylor
After Mike Thomas’ drop last week, Taylor seems to have jumped him on the depth chart. His stats don’t explode off the page, but he did well in his opportunities. He took two jet sweeps for 9 yards each, and also added 14 receiving yards. Taylor also had a good day in the return game, going for 27 yards on one of his punt returns.
– CB, Eli Apple
Apple had a good game in his return from injury. It was especially needed with Awuzie out for the year, and Mike Hilton also missing this one. He looked excellent in zone coverage, on one play contributing to Bates’ interception. Apple only allowed 2 receptions in this one, and only 19 yards.
– LB, Germaine Pratt
The starting defence as a whole contributed to shutting down the Panther’s offence. Pratt was good in all phases, and his interception was the highlight. He dropped deep into coverage, showing off his athleticism, and was able to snatch an errant PJ Walker throw.
– S, Jessie Bates
Bates was part of a secondary that shut down the Panthers offence. His interception stifled their late first half attempt to cut into the Bengals lead, and allowed the Bengals to add 7 before the break. It essentially sealed the game.
– CB, Jalen Davis
The Bengals secondary was banged up. Awuzie is out for the year, but starting slot CB Mike Hilton was also out for this one. Jalen Davis filled in and was hardly noticeable, which is a good thing. He has quietly been solid whenever called upon to see the field, whether it be pre or regular season. Davis solidified his depth position with the team.
The Bad:
– P, Kevin Huber
Huber struggled for the second straight week, as calls for Drue Chrisman increase. His leg strength just isn’t what it used to be. It is likely that the Bengals kept him in the first place due to his consistency holding for the field goals. However, the leash seems to be getting shorter and shorter. He’ll have to pick it up if he wants to finish the season on the active roster.
– K, Evan McPherson
McPherson converted all 6 of his extra point attempts. However, he missed a field goal for the second straight game. No reason to panic yet, but he needs to be careful not to let this snowball.
– CB, Cam Taylor-Britt
You see the raw traits when he plays, and he improved a little from his first start. However, Taylor-Britt doesn’t quite look ready yet. There are still some lapses in coverage and he allowed Terrace Marshall to elevate over him for a TD catch. With Awuzie out, the Bengals have no choice but to continue to play him, unless they bring in outside help. Hopefully he continues to grow with more playing time.
