Cincinnati Bengals: Even If Marvin Lewis Stays, Coordinators Need To Go
The Cincinnati Bengals seemingly are stuck to the idea of Marvin Lewis being head coach. The coordinators are a different story with the decline of both the offense and defensive performance.
The Bengals have two big issues, Ken Zampese and Paul Guenther. Both took over successful units and made them step back and become units that fans can’t be proud of. In fact, both have dropped units who were top 10 units and taken them below 20th in the NFL.
Ken Zampese:
Under Hue Jackson, Andy Dalton had a certain level of control, protection, and a game plan that utilized a balanced offense. The Bengals were 7th in points per game and 9th in rushing first downs. They were 8-0 and before Andy Dalton got injured, was a major candidate for MVP discussions.
This season, the Bengals are 24th in points scored per game, 22nd in third down conversions, 17th in passing yards and 13th in turnover difference. It is something the Bengals have really failed to take advantage of good talent. The level of control Dalton once had, seems all but a memory from last season.
Paul Guenther:
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Paul Guenther has had a couple years to really get things right as he took over this defense in 2014, when Mike Zimmer left for Minnesota. Guenther has had two very good season, but was dealt a little harder situation to continue the status quo in 2016.
The Cincinnati Bengals lost their defensive backs coach to the Miami Dolphins, as Vance Joseph left for their defensive coordinator position. Along with Joseph, Matt Burke left for Miami to take on the same role in a warmer climate.
In 2015, the Bengals allowed the 11th fewest yards total in the NFL. They ranked second in points allowed in the NFL, and they had the second most interceptions in the NFL. In 2016, the Bengals are 5th in interceptions, but are 22nd in sacks, 29th in forced fumbles, 17th in fewest points allowed.
The Cincinnati Bengals are struggling and with the main core still in place, it is anyone’s guess what could be the exact purpose for their struggle. One thing is for sure, little emotion from the sideline and little in game adjustments are a visible struggle. What does that mean for this team? It might be time to find coaches who can improve this team, instead of trying to upkeep the status quo.