Cincinnati Bengals: Finley needs to create separation for backup QB job this week
By Steve Rivera
Everyone knows that Andy Dalton is the starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals. in Week 2 of this exhibition season, rookie Ryan Finley has an opportunity to make a serious play for the backup job this season.
One of the bright spots in the Cincinnati Bengals 38-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs was fourth-round rookie quarterback Ryan Finley. Finley, who is in a battle with Jeff Driskel for the backup spot to veteran Andy Dalton, needs another solid outing on Thursday night against the Redskins. Finley went 13 of 18 for 109 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in his professional debut. Even ESPN analyst Todd McShay liked what he saw from the rookie.
Chiefs were in complete control last night but I liked what I saw from Bengals rookie QB Ryan Finley (from NCST). Completed first nine passes. Showed really good anticipation and was getting the ball out on time.
— Todd McShay (@McShay13) August 11, 2019
For Bengals fans, Finley is someone to be excited about, at least in the context of what may be down the road for Cincinnati. As Dalton enters the twilight of his current contract, you can’t help but wonder if the former North Carolina State quarterback can make that leap to a bonafide starter in the NFL.
Head coach Zac Taylor, who worked with Jared Goff in Los Angeles, has had Finley working with the second unit this week. As the Bengals get ready for their second preseason game, Finley could get significant playing time as Taylor gets a better look at how the depth chart may shake out.
It’s a good scenario for Cincinnati. Taylor is a breath of fresh air for a Bengals organization that had become stale. Practices are lighter and there is a greater emphasis on keeping players fresh. For Dalton, who will get a long look this season, the culture change gives him a chance to find a second act in his career. For a young player like Finley, he could find himself the change agent if Taylor needs one in 2019.
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Either way, fans should get a long look at what the future may hold for the quarterback position in Cincinnati. While Dalton won’t likely face a serious challenge this exhibition season, Taylor and the Bengals will still want to see what they have further down the depth chart, beginning with Finley this week.