3 bold predictions for the Cincinnati Bengals’ 2020 defense

A lot went wrong for the Bengals’ defense in 2019. One thing that went overwhelmingly right, however, is their red-zone efficiency. Cincinnati ranked third in the NFL at preventing opponents to reach the end zone. According to Team Rankings, the defense gave up a touchdown just 49.02% of the time. They were especially effective when playing on their home turf, with that number dropping to just 37.04%.

There’s no reason to think the Bengals will take a step back in this category heading into 2020. In fact, they could become even better.

They should be solid in goal-line situations with Reader, Atkins, Josh Tupou, and others clogging up the interior gaps to prevent inside rushing.

Wilson and Davis-Gaither have the athleticism to set the edge in the event of an outside run, as well as the ability to cover tight ends and running backs if their opponents opt to attack through the air.

William Jackson III and Waynes both thrive in man-to-man coverage, so they should be fine to matchup on an island. Shawn Williams and Bell are both physical defenders who can make their presence known with their backs against the wall.

With so much going for the Bengals in terms of red-zone defense, don’t be surprised if they grade out just as well in their next campaign as they did in their last one.