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By James Brizuela
Contributing Writer
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The Cincinnati Bengals are going through some issues with their defense, as perennial edge rusher Trey Hendrickson remains on the outs due to a contract dispute. Losing Hendrickson would be disastrous for a defense that is already heavily criticized.
More news: Bengals and Trey Hendrickson Contract Standoff Receives Major Update
Despite the Bengals' defense always playing catch-up, the offense continues to showcase elite skill with Joe Burrow at the helm. That was evident during the Bengals' second preseason game against the Washington Commanders.
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Burrow and company were able to move the ball downfield in their first series, scoring immediately. Oddly enough, the Bengals franchise quarterback remained on the field, prompting strong words from Stephen A. Smith.
When Smith was asked on "First Take" if he had a problem with Bengals head coach Zac Taylor leaving Burrow in the game for so long, the analyst went off on Taylor for that and multiple other reasons.
"I have a problem with Zac Taylor, period. I have a problem with him coaching in the offseason, I have a problem with him never having this team prepared to play in September, and I certainly have a problem with him for leaving Joe Burrow in the game as long as he did. There was a couple of plays where he was running for his life. I don't know why he didn't just go down. It's a preseason game," Smith stated.
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Smith also stated that Taylor should have walked Burrow off the field if he did not want to do so willingly, simply because it is preseason football. The play in question that Smith was addressing showcased Burrow taking a very dangerous sack.
Anything can happen in this league, and quickly as well. Burrow does not need to be getting hurt on a preseason play.
"It makes no sense whatsoever and when you consider how God awful their defense is ... it just elevates the necessity of Joe Burrow," Smith added.
Burrow is the most important player the Bengals have, and Smith points to the defense being "terrible." This would definitely be hard not to agree with if Hendrickson leaves the team.
Smith also has a point that Taylor does not seem to have the team prepared for September football, as the Bengals went 1-4 in their first five games of the 2024 regular season. This poor start led to the team missing the postseason.
It is imperative that the Bengals not only find a way to win early but that the defense matches the intensity of the offense, or the team will be on the outside looking in again during the playoffs.
For more on the Bengals and NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.
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