July 18, 2008

With RB Rudi Johnson returning to full strength after having fought a hamstring injury last season and Chris Perry back in the fold after missing the '07 campaign with an ankle injury, the Bengals have the makings of a deep, talented backfield. And they will also have reason to put the ball in the air a little less this season, the way we hear it. Among AFC teams, only pass-happy New England threw more than Cincinnati did last season. The Bengals can still air it out when necessary, but more of an emphasis on the ground game is expected. You can expect the backs to be active in the passing game, too, especially Perry and Kenny Watson, both of whom catch the ball exceptionally well.