Three questions for the AFC North. Part #1 the Cincinnati Bengals.

Here at the AFC North Report we listen to you the readers. We look at all the questions and comments you post and combine it with stats, data, Wigi boards, tarot cards, and chicken entrails in an effort to determine what will happen in the coming season. With a crystal ball at our side and yes that wonderful hat that Merlin wore we seek answers, but to have answers one must have questions. So here are three questions that must be asked in regards to the Cincinnati Bengals 2012 season.

Question#1 Can Andy Dalton and A.J. Green avoid the sophomore slump? together the two had an outstanding season leading the Bengals to the playoffs. Unfortunately for them, history is not on their side. The Bengals have not had back-to-back winning seasons under Head Coach Marvin Lewis and he is not alone. The franchise has not done so in 30+ years.

Question#2 Can BenJarvus Green-Ellis replaces Cedric Benson? Benson had been a productive running back for Cincinnati since coming to the Bengals in 2008. Benson has put up over 4,000 rushing yards with an average at his worst season in Cincinnati of 3.5 per carry and scored 21 rushing touchdowns as a Bengal.

His replacement BenJarvus Green-Ellis is entering his 5th year in the NFL formerly of the New England patriots. During that his time in New England he has only managed 2,064 yards and 29 touchdowns. He has averaged 4.0 yards per carry during that time. But it is important to point out his career long run was only 33 yards. So will the running game be there to Support Dalton and company?

Question#3 Are the Bengals a team on the rise or a one-hit wonders? Are they the Rembrandts (creators of Friends TV theme song) of the NFL world? As of now Las Vegas says that the Bengals are 40-1 to win the Super Bowl this season and their over-under on their win/loss record is 7.5 wins. Despite what many considered to be an excellent draft, many analysts (including myself) say that this is a young team with a lot to learn. And this year’s schedule is brutal. I do however think they will make .500 going 8 and 8 and go 2-4 within the division. But given some more experience, I can see this team becoming dominant.

What are your thoughts on the Bengals’ chances in 2012?

Michael W. Youngman--Lead Analyst AFC North
Michael is the Lead Analyst for the AFC North Report and the Cleveland Browns Report. He has written many articles that have been featured by playerpress.com, cantonrep.com, FoxSports.com, and of course this site. Michael has also written a book titled “The Dayton Project” published in 2008 by PublishAmerica. He makes his home in the Hall of Fame City of Canton Ohio with his wife Lisa and his two children Joseph and Jennifer. To learn more, visit his Website