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Who Dey notes: Bengals’ John Ross could return, William Jackson III

By Emile Pierce

GREEN BAY, WI - SEPTEMBER 24: William Jackson #22 of the Cincinnati Bengals intercepts a pass from Aaron Rodgers #12 (not pictured) to Jordy Nelson #87 of the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on September 24, 2017 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Jackson returned the interception for a 75-yard touchdown. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
GREEN BAY, WI - SEPTEMBER 24: William Jackson #22 of the Cincinnati Bengals intercepts a pass from Aaron Rodgers #12 (not pictured) to Jordy Nelson #87 of the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on September 24, 2017 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Jackson returned the interception for a 75-yard touchdown. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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Week 8 could showcase the return of John Ross to the lineup. William Jackson III has proved he can be a force in the league.

First, get it out of your system. Week 7 is in the books and we have to move on…at least temporarily. So, with that being said, it’s time for the Bengals to prepare for the Colts to visit PBS. The big news is the fact John Ross should be ready to see some game action. Um, okay.

Please excuse me if I seem to lack that ‘wow” factor when it comes to talking about Ross. Yes, like other Bengals faithful, I was pumped to see him taken in the draft. I knew he had a slew of injuries that made him a liability. But, hey. We’re talkin’ ‘bout Mr. 422, right? Since that day, my expectations have been (to say the least) lowered. Ross hasn’t been on the field since Week 2. If my thoughts about him have been dashed, fantasy players are probably pulling their hair out.

This is a game that Cincinnati should put away in the first quarter. But, recent developments–with a lack of preparation–could have profound ramifications on the outcome. In other words, there needs to be more than Ross and his blazing speed to get the job done against Indy. 

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What’s the word? Ross has looked good for two straight Wednesday practices. But, he missed the Steelers clash. Getting on the field isn’t a guarantee that he’ll see time against the Colts. If he does, Bengals fans will finally get to see that hyperdrive in action. More realistically, he’ll get a couple of Jet Sweeps and be put on the shelf again. Please, football gods, I hope I’m wrong.

How ‘Bout Dat Big Willie?

With Adam Jones missing the Steelers game with a back issue, the big concern was Antonio Brown. The Bengals have been able to contain the talented receiver in most of their matchups. The responsibility was thrust upon William Jackson III and he made it look easy.

Brown caught a TD on the Steelers first drive but didn’t cross the goal line again. Jackson was able to break up three passes that Ben Roethlisberger intended for his favorite target. In fact, Jackson shut No. 84 down on all passes sent his way.

Jones was back at practice on Wednesday. But, it’s not a given he’ll be ready to go against the Colts. Back issues are always a tricky and serious injury.

Next: Mixon Was On Point

Jackson is definitely the real deal. After returning a pick-6 against Aaron Rodgers in Week 3, he’s proved he has the ability to become a force in the league. But, where does that leave Adam? Jones is a beast when he’s healthy. But, the age factor could be sneaking up on him. Jackson needs to see more playing time.

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