5 Bold Predictions for the Bengals in 2014

Big things could be on the way from Tyler Eifert in 2014. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Tyler Eifert Leads The Bengals in Touchdown Catches

In 2013, the Bengals couldn’t resist using their first round selection towards a “luxury” pick when tight end Tyler Eifert fell to them in the first round.  Eifert spent 2013 learning to play in the NFL and improving his ability as a blocker.  Over the course of the preseason, Eifert made himself a favorite target of Andy Dalton and was so effective that he prompted this article from Cincy Jungle’s Jason Marcum.

Eifert has struggled with a shoulder injury during the preseason, but I still expect him to make a real impact on this team in the coming year.  With Marvin Jones down for a few weeks, Eifert will get extra chances to establish himself as a major target while benefitting from the relentless double and triple-teams A.J. Green demands.  Outside of Green, no Bengals receiving option can cause the kinds of mismatches that Eifert can.  With the play-action that Hue Jackson will implement into this offense and with Dalton looking for the throws that will have the best opportunity for success, expect Eifert to have a big year.  And because the Bengals will be looking to control the ball and “move the chains,” I expect the team to get into the redzone prior to scoring more often than not.  Expect Eifert to use his size and leaping ability to have an even bigger impact when the Bengals are within 20 yards (see video).