Locked On Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals have their first chance to prove their doubters wrong in their Week 1 road trip to Cleveland. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down the strength-on-strength and weakness-on-weakness matchups that matter, including how the Joe Burrow and the offensive line will deal with Myles Garrett. We'll start getting answers about Al Golden's defense that should stand up against a Browns offense expected to be among the worst in the NFL, and that could provide insight into the Bengals' Super Bowl viability in 2025.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAA

Can the Cincinnati Bengals overcome their history of slow starts in Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns? Joe Burrow and the Bengals face a formidable challenge in Myles Garrett and the Browns' fierce defensive line, while Ja'Marr Chase's matchup with Denzel Ward always provides fireworks. James Rapien and Locked On Browns' Spencer German break down key battles, potential strategies, and the impact of Joe Flacco leading the Browns' offense. From protecting Burrow to controlling the clock, both teams have clear paths to victory. We cover every angle of this year's Week 1 AFC North clash in Cleveland!Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbm

Al Golden's scheme, vision, and leadership needs to be good enough for the the Cincinnati Bengals' to unlock their championship potential. With the preseason behind us, the Bengals' defensive overhaul takes center stage as Jake Liscow and film analyst Mike Santagata break down the schematic shifts we can expect this year. From a more aggressive "attack-react" approach in the run game, to intrigue at the approach in the secondary, we break down our expectations for Golden's defense from front to back and discuss what needs to go better to call 2025 a "success" on defense.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?s

The Cincinnati Bengals added Mike Pennel to the practice squad on Monday, and the former Chiefs nose tackle represents quality run stopping depth where they were lacking it. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down what the Pennel brings to the Bengals, and what the move means for McKinnley Jackson and Howard Cross. Plus, offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher says the starting right guard battle isn't decided, and we look for reasons for optimism with the Bengals' defense after a lackluster preseason.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www

We've been talking about a "fast start" for the Cincinnati Bengals forever, and now that the season is starting, Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down what that should actually look like for the Bengals, and how much of it is on Joe Burrow after he got preseason snaps. Plus, we decipher how Dalton Risner could be part of their Week 1 game plan. How does he fit in Cincinnati's offensive line room? And Jabrill Peppers was released by the New England Patriots, so is it time for the Bengals to put safety last?Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher:

AFC North 2025: Ravens' Three-Peat Quest, Bengals' Defensive Woes, and Steelers' Rodgers EraCan the Baltimore Ravens make history as the first team to win the AFC North three years straight? Kevin Ostreicher and fellow hosts dissect the Ravens' offseason moves, including Jair Alexander and DeAndre Hopkins acquisitions. Jake Lisco examines the Cincinnati Bengals' offensive firepower and defensive struggles, while Chris Carter analyzes the Pittsburgh Steelers' revamped defense with Jalen Ramsey. Spencer German weighs in on the Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation and Joe Flacco's impact. The hosts debate potential MVP candidates Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow, and offer surprising division rankings.Tune in for expert insights on each team's strengths, weaknesses, and playoff chances in this comprehensive AFC North preview.

Joe Burrow is elite, and Robert Weintraub (Cincinnati Magazine, FTN Almanac) makes the case for a major Bengals bounce back in 2025. Jake Liscow and James Rapien chat with Robert about the upside with Burrow, the offensive line and running game, concerns about the Bengals' defense and so much more! They also look ahead to the Bengals' Week 1 matchup against the Cleveland Browns!Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsListener SurveyWe’ve put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and mak

More than a week after Dalton Risner left Cincinnati without a contract, the Bengals got a deal done on Wednesday. Jake Liscow and James Rapien discuss Risner's potential impact, even if he needs a little time to learn the offense and grow into a starting role. And with Risner, Noah Fant, and Trey Hendrickson signing deals with the Bengals late in the preseason, they re-grade the entire offseason now that the games are going to count. Plus, we take a look at the initial practice squad including a new name at QB.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitc

The Cincinnati Bengals' initial cutdown to 53 never fails to surprise, and this year it's their decision to keep 6 defensive tackles and 5 tight ends against just 8 offensive linemen. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down the most interesting moves the Bengals made on cutdown day, and more importantly, what's coming next as they scour the waiver wire for OL, DT, and safety help.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsListener SurveyWe’ve put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and m

Trey Hendrickson and the Cincinnati Bengals finally found common ground. The surprise is that the common ground is for 2025 only. The Bengals won't take the risk to pay Hendrickson for his aging years, and the All-Pro defensive end will have a chance to reach free agency for one last big deal after this season. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break it all down as the Bengals ensured that Hendrickson wouldn't miss any regular season practice time.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsListener SurveyWe’

The Cincinnati Bengals are working through their roster gymnastics to get the roster to a regular season 53, so it's time for our annual roster prediction! Jake Liscow and James Rapien walk through the depth chart and analyze the likely cuts and keeps, and clear areas where the Bengals will be looking for external help. Who will get through the initial cutdown? We discuss the cases for players on the end of the roster like Cam Grandy, Andrew Coker, Howard Cross, Taven Bryan, P.J. Jules, and Daijahn Anthony. Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher:

The Cincinnati Bengals concluded their 2025 preseason by getting blown out against the Indianapolis Colts in a battle of backups and practice squad hopefuls on Saturday, but they sustained injuries to Jermaine Burton and Daijahn Anthony in the process. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down the depth chart implications from Saturday's preseason finale, which revealed some roster locks, and a few roster spots that were up for grabs.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsListener SurveyWe’ve put toge

With training camp wrapping up on Thursday, the Bengals have some decisions to make that will come down to how different depth pieces perform in their preseason finale. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down the takeaways from the final practice of training camp, including why Oren Burks was in for Demetrius Knight, Mitch Tinsley's evidently solidified status on the roster, and Al Golden insisting that the defense's issues are due to preseason scheme simplicity. Plus, we break down the most interesting remaining roster battles in the final preseason game.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CA

The Cincinnati Bengals face offensive line challenges as backup guard Cordell Volson's injury adds to depth concerns. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down why Volson's injury underlines the Bengals' need at guard as depth is perilously thin. Plus, the defense's performance in preseason keeps getting downplayed as coaches keeping the new scheme under wraps - do we buy it? We've got plenty of positive injury updates on key players like Dax Hill and B.J. Hill, while Trey Hendrickson's contract situation remains a focal point. Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAA

Dalton Risner looked like a no-brainer insurance policy for the Bengals to add depth and potentially a starter to their guard position, but he left Cincinnati without a deal. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down why that's disappointing and how Risner could still make sense before diving into how the starting offensive line actually played (pretty well!) on re-watch. Dylan Fairchild and Amarius Mims are showing promising development in preseason games! Plus, the guys weigh in on the concern level on defense, and what specifically has looked problematic in the games vs. practice.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25

The Cincinnati Bengals won a preseason game for the first time since 2022! Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down how Joe Burrow fared in his 3 drives of preseason action that included a sensational touchdown pass to Charlie Jones to finish, but a bad sack that ended his second drive. Plus, Mitch Tinsley's breakout night, Dalton Risner's impending Tuesday visit that could solidify right guard, and lingering concerns as the starting defense looked like butter against a hot knife. Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/sh

Multiple reports on Sunday claimed the Bengals are listening to trade offers for All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson after negotiations hit an impasse. That's embarrassing news no matter how you interpret it, but Jake Liscow is skeptical that anything has truly changed in the last few weeks between the Bengals and Hendrickson. Jake and James Rapien break down why it's bad news either way, and discuss potential compensation for the stubborn Cincinnati front office to make a move.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/s

Cordell Volson has a shoulder injury, Cody Ford was on the rehab field, and Zac Taylor didn't have a confident answer about the right guard battle on Saturday. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down the deteriorating state of the Bengals' right guard position and offensive line depth, wondering if the team will be moved to find external help. Meanwhile, Taylor expects his starters' playing time to be similar to the first preseason game, and we'll see preseason debuts for Cam Taylor-Britt, Dax Hill, and Noah Fant, and depth chart battles at defensive tackle and safety. The guys break down everything they're watching for against the Commanders.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.

Cincinnati Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow was a tier one quarterback in Mike Sando’s annual rankings. Sando interviewed 50 NFL sources including head coaches, general managers and executives. Burrow was ahead of Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, tied with Patrick Mahomes. James Rapien and Jake Liscow react to the rankings and Dan Orlovsky’s QB trait rankings that had Burrow on top of 4 categories. Plus, it's past time to sign a guard, but the Bengals just don't seem interested. The guys discuss the available options the Bengals don't seem to want after the offensive line struggled at Wednesday’s practice.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZW

Joe Burrow isn't supposed to get hit in practice, but Shemar Stewart stumbled into him with enough force to knock the Bengals' star QB down, and a scuffle broke out at training camp practice Wednesday. The guys break down how it went down, including Ted Karras' reaction that took accountability for protection issues, but also took pride in "handling" the situation afterward. Jake and James also break down the protection issues that upended the offense's practice as Orlando Brown Jr. missed a day of practice.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: