Cincinnati Bengals matchups to watch
Jonah Williams vs. Myles Garrett
It is a big year for Jonah Williams — A lot of pressure is on his shoulders, figuratively and literally speaking when the AFC North defensive linemen come to town. The Bengals brass believes that the young tackle can live up to his top ten draft status. This is in part why the team chose to pass on Penei Sewell in the draft.
Myles Garrett is one of the best defensive ends in football. He has proven to be a handful for Williams like he is for many tackles.
If the team is going to play in the toughest division with some of the league’s best pass rushers in general, and Garrett in particular, the Bengals must counter with one of the best tackles. To be the best, you have to beat the best.
Pro Football Focus recently ranked Williams as the 24th best tackle in the NFL. Of Williams, Anthony Treash writes:
"Last year was Williams’ unofficial redshirt rookie year after he missed all of his first season in the Queen City due to injury, and he performed quite well when it came to protecting the quarterback. Yes, Joe Burrow did get eaten alive, but the 2019 No. 11 overall pick generally held his ground. He finished 14th among all tackles in true pass set grade, which is the most stable area of offensive tackle play."
All eyes are on the Bengals’ offensive line to see if they can protect Joe Burrow. Williams will be manning the most important spot along said line. Cheers to hoping Williams stays on the field this year and he turns the preverbal tide in his individual battle with Browns’ star defensive end.
Such a performance would propel Williams even higher on such lists next year.