3 keys for a Bengals win over the Green Bay Packers

Put Mixon In The Mix

There’s nothing really drastic about this change. But, it goes against what Lewis is about. The Bengals’ head honcho has admitted that he’s willing to address change and do what’s necessary to win. If that means starting rookies, this will be the game to do it.

Joe Mixon is waiting in the wings for a chance to prove he isn’t a bust. Getting more carries isn’t the problem. Mixon is already the backfield leader with 17 touches. Jeremy Hill and Giovani Bernard are trailing with 12 attempts each.

But, the attempts are not the issues. Mixon needs to be in the flow of the game. Most running backs need to get into a rhythm. If that’s going to happen, Lazor needs to pick a starter and stick with him. The key to any back getting those consistent 100-yard games is repetition. They need to be caught up in the momentum of the game. Usually, that will mean anywhere from 20-30 carries per game. Yes, there are times when the flow of the game dictates what an offense can do. But, it’s still about getting involved in the game flow.

Mixon wasn’t drafted to be a shiny, new toy on the sidelines. It’s time to kick the wheels and take him for a spin around the block.