Cincinnati Bengals NFL Betting Odds

Last Season

There are many adjectives that could describe the Cincinnati Bengals' season last year, unfortunately most are unprintable. To say they were 'dismal' is being too kind. The team's offense, for instance, was ranked the worst in the NFL as it only managed to average a paltry 245 yards and score 12.8 points per game. Wide receiver Chad Ochocinco failed to impress, while quarterback Carson Palmer was out for much of the season with an injured elbow. However, if the Bengals had one strength, it was their defense and linebacker Dhani Jones did well to chalk up 116 tackles.

Off Season

Given their 2008 season, the Cincinnati Bengals had their work cut out in the 2009 NFL Draft, which seemed to pay off judging by some of their acquisitions. Take power offensive lineman Andre Smith, who delivered the goods in Alabama and should do the same for the Bengals. On the team's defensive side, skilled former USC Trojan linebacker, Rey Maualuga, is expected to shake things up as is lanky defensive end, Michael Johnson, who proved his speed and agility for Georgia Tech. On the downside, free agent T. J. Houshmandzadeh left the Bengals to join the Seattle Seahawks, but on the upside, wide receiver Laveranues Coles joined the team.

2009 Preview

The great thing about hitting rock bottom is that the only way is up. As such the Bengals should fare better this year, especially offensively given their new recruits. Recovered from his elbow injury, Palmer will make a welcome return to the starting lineup. Badly missed when he was on the bench last season, no doubt his teammates will help ensure he remains healthy this season. According to the rumor mill, Ochocinco acknowledged his poor form last season and has endeavored to turn over a new leaf, while Laveranues Coles is also expected to step up. With a good offense and a solid defense, the Bengals could shine.

2009 Prediction

While the Cincinnati Bengals are expected to be a greatly improved team from last season, they'll still have to face the defending Super Bowl Champs, the Baltimore Ravens, in their division. If they can fend off the Ravens and keep their confidence high there is no doubt they'll improve on last season's poor 4-11 record. However, it is doubtful that they'll be good enough to reach the playoffs, although stranger things have happened.

Our Pick Bengals go up, but not by that much from last season. They were decimated by key injuries and are much better than a 4 win team. They could also provide some betting value, although if this team faces adversity it usually quits.

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