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Cincinnati Bengals2009 record: 10-6 (First in AFC North)
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Vic Carucci
Carson Palmer needs more than Chad Ochocinco to take advantage of his talented arm. Can Terrell Owens still be a viable alternative?
Prediction: 9-7, second in AFC North
Steve Wyche
Cincy boasts division's nastiest defense -- and maybe the best corners in the AFC. Carson Palmer has more weapons, now he must deliver.
Prediction: 10-6, second in AFC North
Pat Kirwan
Bengals have stingy defense, solid running game, and better wideouts than they've had in years. Palmer always plays Ravens tough.
Prediction: 10-6, first in AFC North
Bucky Brooks
Bengals make push to capture second straight division crown. However, a mid-season slump will derails their chances.
Prediction: 9-7, third in AFC North
Jason La Canfora
Carson Palmer's health gives me pause and I'm not sure T.Ochocinco will merit big ratings. Love D, but need big year from Cedric Benson.
Prediction: 9-7, second in AFC North
Michael Lombardi
Much more talent on offense will help a solid D. If Carson Palmer is better, then this team is a legit Super Bowl contender.
Prediction: 10-6, second in AFC North
14
The net point differential for the Bengals, who outscored opponents 305-291 last season. That was the smallest margin for any team with a winning record. It's hard to win with so little room for error.
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Carson Palmer
Palmer was once viewed as one of the NFL's elite quarterbacks, but injuries and sub-par performances threaten to diminish his stature. However, an upgraded supporting cast gives Palmer a host of weapons to feature in the passing game. Given the extraordinary talent the Bengals now boast, the pressure is on Palmer to rediscover his all-star form to guide the team on a successful run. Terrell Owens
The 37-year-old receiver has lost some of his luster over the past few years but still remains a viable threat as a playmaker. Although he lacks the burst to consistently separate from defenders against press coverage, his superior size and strength allows him to win physical battles early in routes to routinely get open over the middle. In addition, he still shows a knack for getting behind defenders on vertical routes. While he is no longer a classic No.1 receiver, he is still a dangerous weapon capable of producing big plays at key moments.
Benson burner
Cedric Benson is coming off his best fantasy season, and there's no reason to believe he can't be better in 2010. Not only will he remain a featured back, but Benson will also see consistent goal-line work. He's also in a contract year, which just adds motivation for success.
Three pivotal games
Sept. 19 vs. Baltimore
Cincinnati went undefeated against the AFC North last season (6-0), and that dominance led to its division title. The first chance to extend the streak comes at home against the Ravens, who have finished second in the AFC North two years running. By beating the Ravens in Week 2, the Bengals can send an early message to their rivals.
Nov. 25 at New York Jets
The Jets gave the Bengals all they could handle at the end of last season. New York got into the playoffs by crushing Cincinnati, 37-0, in Week 17, and then followed that up with a 24-14 wild-card victory in the rematch one week later. The Bengals can gain a measure of revenge and confidence by beating them Thanksgiving night.
Dec. 26 vs. San Diego
Playoff seeding could very well be on the line when the Bengals play host to the Chargers. Cincinnati lost an emotional game in San Diego last year that took place just days after Chris Henry's death. The Bengals made several offseason acquisitions to get better than teams like the Chargers and they will get to put those moves to the test here.
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