Locked On Bengals

Joe Burrow returned to practice for the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday, less than two months after his turf toe injury was surgically repaired in September. That opens his 21-day window to return to the Bengals' 53-man roster, but Burrow seems to be targeting a return for Thursday Night Football on Thanksgiving in Baltimore. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down what it all means, and how the Bengals must remain relevant for Burrow's return to matter.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us

Editor's note: This was recorded before Joe Burrow returned to practice on November 10 - We plan content around his continued rehab as well!The Cincinnati Bengals' playoff hopes took a major hit after two brutal defensive performances, and James Rapien welcomes Robert Weintraub from Cincinnati Magazine to break it all down. Why did the Bengals' defense collapse? Should they have traded Trey Hendrickson at the deadline? Who’s really at fault for the recent slide, and how does the youth movement factor in? We dive deep into the Bengals' missed opportunity in the AFC North, reflect on draft strategy and coaching decisions, and discuss whether the front office is making the right moves for the future. Plus, Robert shares thoughts on the team’s lack of professional pride, the rise (and struggles) of young defensive players, and his take on why the Bengals held onto Trey Hendrickson despite trade rumors.  Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On

Cincinnati Bengals’ young core faces growing pains in 2025, but rookie Dylan Fairchild’s growth spurs optimism for the offensive line’s future. Fairchild’s blend of strength and intelligence signals a potential franchise building block. Is the Bengals’ faith in youth beginning to pay off, or are looming struggles ahead?Jake Liscow and Mike Santagata evaluate the development of key Bengals prospects, including Amarius Mims’ steady progress at right tackle and Jalen Rivers’ fight for consistency amidst tough matchups. On defense, DJ Turner emerges as an extension candidate with elite ball production, while questions persist about Shemar Stewart’s impact and the future of the linebacker group.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh

The Cincinnati Bengals' offense keeps firing as Joe Flacco and Tee Higgins ignite against the Chicago Bears, but defensive woes have derailed the season. Jake Liscow and Mike Santagata break down how the Bengals stayed explosive on offense, and the offensive staff’s creative adaptations, including play action, mesh concepts, and tendency-breaking run plays. Unfortunately, the problems on defense are the same. Missed tackles, poor positioning, and coverage miscues persist as the unit gives up chunk plays and struggles to contain even backup running backs. Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAY

The Cincinnati Bengals face mounting pressure as Duke Tobin’s job security comes into question amid a historically poor defensive season. Jake Liscow and James Rapien tackle swirling rumors about Tobin’s future, analyze Cincinnati’s lack of draft hits since 2020, and debate whether ownership and a lean scouting staff are holding the franchise back. Key topics include the Bengals’ struggle to replace stars like Jessie Bates and D.J. Reader, draft flops such as Jackson Carman, and the impact of recent picks like DJ Turner and Chase Brown. The duo also highlights Joe Flacco’s remarkable production since joining the team, because how can you not be romantic about Joe Flacco?Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle

Cincinnati Bengals disappointed fans with half-measures at the 2025 trade deadline, raising concerns about the team’s direction. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down the implications of holding onto Trey Hendrickson despite no clear plan for his future, and only trading Logan Wilson to the Dallas Cowboys for a seventh round draft pick. What does that mean for the foundation of the team: Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins, and Ja'Marr Chase, with concerns piling up about front office leadership. Can the Bengals escape middling NFL status, or will indecision and stalled moves keep them stuck?Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb2

The Cincinnati Bengals are in a bad place, and the trade deadline is here. The Brown-Blackburn family, Duke Tobin, and the front office need to be really honest with themselves about their future, and figure out which pieces aren't part of their plans that they can trade for draft capital. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down why the Bengals need to make decisive moves, and how the coaching staff fits into the conversation over the bye week.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us By Sup

The Cincinnati Bengals defense is somehow still trending in the wrong direction and could finish the year as the worst defense in NFL history. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down another embarrassing effort from the defense, and a loss that felt all too similar to 2024 despite an onside kick recovery, a kickoff return TD, and a blocked FG. Joe Flacco gutted through an AC joint sprain for another huge game highlighted by more Tee Higgins dominance, but it's all a footnote to a pathetic defense that couldn't stop anything the Bears wanted to do, from Kyle Monongai running the ball to Caleb Williams catching multiple successful passes.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.

In a week where the main story is the Bengals' defense being a mess, they'll be searching for answers against Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams. As Cincinnati wraps up its pre-bye homestand, Jake Liscow and James Rapien discuss the dire situation on defense, while the offense could lean into its rejuvenated rushing attack with questions at the quarterback position looming ahead of Week 9.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, an

The Cincinnati Bengals' backs are against the wall on Sunday when they play the Chicago Bears at Paycor Stadium. From Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase and a run game that's thriving to a defense that can't stop anyone—James Rapien previews the matchup with Lorin Cox of Locked On Bears. Is Chicago's defense as bad as the Bengals? Should we expect a shootout between two high-powered offenses? Get your questions answered in this week's Crossover ahead of the Week 9 showdown.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-ben

Everyone could tell the Cincinnati Bengals defense is atrocious in their horrible showing against one of the worst offenses in the NFL. Jake Liscow and film analyst Mike Santagata dissect the Bengals' defensive woes in detail, from an ineffective pass rush to communication breakdowns in the secondary. We also highlight the bright spots in the Bengals' run game and offensive challenges when facing double coverage on stars Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport U

The Bengals are 1-5 since Joe Burrow suffered a grade 3 turf toe injury in Week 2, and the defense has been one of the worst the NFL has seen in the last 25 years. Jake Liscow and James Rapien dive into the blame game as the organization faces down the harsh realities of teambuilding and development failures that have left the defense without answers.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Pel

This might be the Bengals' most pathetic loss of the year. The New York Jets came into Week 8 with the worst offense in the NFL, and effectively ran the ball in the second half on their way to overcoming 31-16 and 38-24 deficits as Al Golden's Bengals defense couldn't do anything right. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down the wheels coming off for the defense that couldn't look worse if it tried against a bad offense missing two starting receivers. Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport

For the first time this season, the Cincinnati Bengals have a chance to build some real positive momentum against the winless New York Jets on Sunday. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down how the Bengals can "stay on track" for potentially meaningful December football in a game where they're heavy favorites. Plus, the Bengals are changing it up on the offensive line, and key player injuries we're watching that could tilt the game.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us By Supporting Our

The Cincinnati Bengals are hoping to win their second-straight game when they host the win-less New York Jets on Sunday at Paycor Stadium. James Rapien is joined by John Butchko of Locked On Jets to talk about a possible Joe Flacco revenge game, what's going on at quarterback for New York, the paths to victory for both teams and so much more!Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Mint MobileReady to say yes to saying no?Make the switch at https://MintMobile.com/

The Cincinnati Bengals need more help on defense, and there seem to be a number of potential selling bottom-dwellers in the NFL this year. Will they make another trade to try to improve the team? Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down what would need to happen for the Bengals to even consider making a move, and a few players that might be interesting targets. Plus, we get into how much improvement on defense is realistic to expect - and where it could come from - and what needs to happen for Joe Burrow to return this season.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAH

The Cincinnati Bengals' defense is dealing with issues on ALL THREE levels. The guys discuss the pass rush, the linebackers, secondary, the entire rookie class, Al Golden's decision making and so much more! They also talk about the uncertainty at the guard position, if Dalton Risner should start moving forward, what rookies Dylan Fairchild and Jalen Rivers have done so far this season and if Lucas Patrick should get the nod at right guard.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us By Supporti

Is Joe Flacco elite? The veteran quarterback's stellar performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers was just as good on re-watch. Jake Liscow is joined by Mike Santagata to break down Flacco's impressive decision-making, the Bengals' effective offensive strategy, and key improvements in the run game. While celebrating offensive successes, we acknowledge the defense's ongoing struggles - namely tackling - while Flacco and the offense have rekindled hope for the Bengals. Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on

Joe Flacco is cold blooded, and out-dueled Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers to get the Bengals right back into the mix in the AFC North. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down how Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins were too much to handle for the Steelers' corners, an explosive offense, and a leaky defense that got enough plays with DJ Turner and Jordan Battle early to give the Bengals a shot later.Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Mint MobileReady to

The Cincinnati Bengals have to win on Thursday night to keep their AFC North dreams alive. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers are hoping to deliver a knockout blow to the Bengals and the rest of the division. James Rapien is joined by Chris Carter of Locked On Steelers to preview the game. They discuss Joe Flacco, Aaron Rodgers, the trenches, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, key injuries and so much more!  Join the Locked On Bengals Insider Community! https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonbengalsFind and follow Locked On Bengals on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-bengals-daily-podcast-on-the-cincinnati-bengals/id1159723162Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AObc0lh0WmQl5fJVgtajsGoogle Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vbG9ja2Vkb25iZW5nYWxz?sa=X&ved=0CAYQrrcFahcKEwio_sXtj8nuAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAgStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-bengalsSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Mint MobileReady to sa