Bengals Power Rankings: How Low Did They Go?

Oct 5, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive tackle Chris Jones (94) sacks Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) during the second half quarter at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Bengals 43-17. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

The Cincinnati Bengals were ranked number two in the NFL going into week 5, at least according to most power rankings. We knew, in the recent loss to the New England Patriots, that the Bengals were going to drop in the Power Rankings. The question for this week’s ranking was, how far?

Pete Prisco of CBSSports.com:
He had them at #1 after week four and now he dropped them to #4 in this week’s power rankings.

"“That was a tough situation they ran into in New England. But they sure didn’t help it much with all the mistakes.”"

ESPN.com: 
The Bengals also dropped in ESPN’s power rankings by three spots this week, but unlike Mr. Prisco, they had the Bengals ranked #2 and now they are #5 Falling behind the Eagles, Chargers, and Broncos.

"“Yikes. Among the many issues Sunday night was converting on third down. Cincinnati was 0-for-7, the second time since 2001 the Bengals didn’t convert a single third-down play.”"

NFL.com’s Elliot Harrison:
Another NFL analyst who thought the Bengals deserved to be #1 after week four has also dropped them to #4 in his power rankings this week, surprisingly, he has the San Diego Chargers at #1.

"“That was brutal. We think the Bengals are as talented as any team in the league — and more talented than New England. Hmmm. Marvin Lewis’ teams always show up in the big games … said no one ever. #itwasoverbeforekickoffSundaynight”"

Fox Sports:
Finally, the most brutal rating of all and probably a little too harsh. They dropped from #2 to #8 this week in this power ranking.

"“The NFL’s last undefeated team, coming off of a bye, ran into a buzz saw. The Bengals linebackers were exposed in coverage without Vontaze Burfict, and the group allowed 11 catches for 154 yards and two touchdowns. Jermaine Gresham’s easy drop on a wide-open touchdown didn’t help Andy Dalton, who doesn’t seem to have any pass-catching weapons outside of A.J. Green and Mohamed Sanu.”"

The Bengals will have to prove themselves once again after the week four loss. They will face a Carolina team that escaped with a come from behind win on Sunday. They might just earn a spot or two back, especially in the For Sports rankings with a win.