In 2024, the Carolina Panthers allowed the most points in a single season in NFL history, giving up 534 points. This season, the Bengals are on pace to allow over 567 points.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Following another abysmal performance against the Steelers, a 22-point loss, the Bengals’ defense has hit rock bottom, allowing 33.4 points per game. Not only is this the worst in the league, it is the worst in the history of the Super Bowl era. The Bengals are last in yards per game, last in rushing yards per game, and second-to-last in passing yards per game allowed. They have allowed 41 touchdowns throughout the season, last in the NFL. They also generate nearly zero pressure, currently ranking second last in sacks and 29th in QB hits.
The On-field Product
On top of the dreadful stats, they don’t do much better on the eye test. Their problems seem to worsen down the stretch of games, as they allowed game-winning touchdown passes to both the Chicago Bears and the New York Jets. The passing coverage completely collapses with the game on the line, which was shown in full when they allowed 23 points in the fourth quarter to the Jets’ 25th-ranked offense. When the team is playing from behind, the run defense has been trampled and is rarely able to get a stop.
Tank Time?
Boasting a 3-7 record, it’s looking like another lost season for Cincinnati. Even with the potential return of QB Joe Burrow, the defensive problems will be too much to overcome. I guess there’s always next year.
