Bengals training camp has been unleashed. Now, it’s time to find out who will be leading Cincinnati in its quest to have a productive backfield.
When the Cincinnati Bengals snagged Joe Mixon in the 2017 Draft, it shouldn’t have surprised anyone. Real fans knew that the need for a stable running back was real. Jeremy Hill had succumbed to injury and wasn’t producing at the level expected. Giovani Bernard is a stunning runner with elusiveness and superb cutback ability. But, he’s going to be on two surgically repaired wheels.
So what does the Bengals brain trust do? They select the most controversial running back on the board. Mixon becomes part of the Bengals and history is made. It’s time for anyone that hasn’t forgiven the young man to get a grip on reality. Mixon is a beast. He proved that during his short but productive stint at Oklahoma. Now, it’s time to bask in the glory of his awesomeness (overkill?).
Case For Gio
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As training camp kicks into gear, the backfield will be an area of concern for the Bengals. It’s not a case of limited production coming from the running backs. It’ll be more on the lines of who gets the bulk of the carries. Bernard looked good on the first day of camp and impressed players, fans and coaches.
"“This is my second go-round,” Bernard explained, per Dayton Daily News . “I understood the process. I understood you just kind of stay the course and trust the training staff. It’s one of those things when you set out a goal in front of yourself and you are able to accomplish it, it means the world to yourself. I’ve got two bionic knees now. Now they’re even.”"
Though Gio looks good, the chaos of real game feel and action are still ahead. Of course, Bengals faithful wish him the best. But, it’s an uphill climb for any back.
Meanwhile…At The Bat Cave
Mixon wasn’t drafted to sit in the locker room and smash Pringles. In essence, the starting job is his to win or lose. With his skill set and hunger, Mixon is a good fit for the Bengals offense. His explosiveness and keen knack for blowing past defenders in the open field can’t go to waste.
The Bengals have a history of bringing rookies along slowly. Mixon’s case study should be allowed in court immediately.
https://twitter.com/Bengals/status/891039866632507393
In short, there’s something special in the air. The Bengals’ 50th anniversary could bring some changes that weren’t expected. Additionally, if Mighty Joe Mixon is part of that evolution, fans will surely welcome the outcome.