Cincinnati Bengals: Vincent Rey Makes Early Impact

Sep 20, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Vincent Rey (57) intercepts the ball against San Diego Chargers wide receiver Malcom Floyd (80) in the second half at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati defeated San Diego 24-19. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

Vincent Rey has taken more criticism for his inconsistent play than a spot light player, who can make an impact. After a solid season in 2013, with four sacks, two interceptions, a fumble recovery, and fifty seven total tackles, Bengals fans started getting excited. In 2014, he took some major steps back, including no sacks, no interceptions, no fumble recoveries, and only 121 tackles, most of which were tackles for gains. Have we seen a glimpse of the 2013 Rey again?

Vincent Rey has recorded eight solo tackles, five assists, and a game saving interception in just two games so far this season. His impact was felt late in Sunday’s match up against the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers final drive, Philip Rivers decided to go across the middle to Malcolm Floyd, who had caught the touchdown pass just one series before to pull within five. Vincent Rey dropped back into coverage and Rivers never saw him.

This is the type of impact that we expected last season and now, after a year of learning a similar but new system under defensive coordinator, Paul Guenther, it finally is clicking. Let’s get this straight right now, I am not saying that Vincent Rey is the next Vontaze Burfict impact type of player, or that he will be even close, but he has already made a difference in two games.

His impact on the field in two games has been better than every game last season, in my opinion, and his potential as a weak side linebacker was almost lost after injury and mediocrity filled the organization last season. He has picked up where 2013 left off and that is something I think most fans can agree needs to happen with other key players. If this defense can tighten up on the run and get more pressure on the opposing quarterbacks on a consistent basis, it could become one of the top defenses in the league once again. This team could certainly use the boost to get to and over the playoff win hump.