Shallow Thoughts & Nearsighted Observations
The Mile High Report — ... , ILB Rey Maualuga, and DE Michael Johnson, but all three are considered major threats to underachieve.  Since we're in benefit-of-the-doubt mode, we'll just focus on the talent for now.  In my opinion, ...

Wednesday Links and Notes: Could next week determine if 2009 will be a sellout?
Cincy Jungle — ... sacks. A big number, considering he only had  0.5 last year and 4.5 in his three-year career. Chad Johnson on his return to Cincinnati and workout at OTAs. "They were running me in there at times and working me through," The Ocho said. "Everybody looked good to me." Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson are working hard right now for more playing time when the season starts. Rey Maualuga is already "sweeping the community", visiting ...

Monday morning links and notes: Chad Ochocinco to be on Joe Buck Live Tonight
Cincy Jungle — ... weeks ago, and we're going to go in and teach it like they never heard it before and reinforce and detail out the fine points." The general consensus is that 85 percent of the playbook was installed during the four weeks of OTAs. The past two weeks have been a little more about refined points of the playbook like the two-minute offense and gadget plays. Pro Football Weekly "hears" that there will be a spirited competition between Rey Maualuga and Rashad Jeanty for strong-side outside linebacker. ...

Bengals big-play offense is taking shape (again); Whitworth is an emerging leader; Bengals linebackers are most underrated in AFCN
Cincy Jungle — ... one of your elite players play,” Whitworth said during a break at minicamp, which concludes Saturday, June 20, at Paul Brown Stadium. “That’s the position I want to take the responsibility of playing, and playing well.” + Linebackers. Joe Reedy writes that the Bengals linebackers, while underrated, could be very good. The popular vote for the team's starting lineup is Keith Rivers, Dhani Jones and Rey Maualuga. However, because of the competition that Maualuga will bring, ...

Is the running back depth already set; USC linebacker tandem; Walker's weekend observations
Cincy Jungle — ... play fullback and is noted with good hands out of the backfield (versatility goes a long way on this team). Scott has the speed to turn corners and the talent for a change-of-pace back behind Benson. Players like DeDe Dorsey, James Johnson and Kenny Watson figure to be fighting hard for a job, which is a far cry from the Rudi Johnson, Chris Perry, Kenny Watson, DeDe Dorsey and James Johnson setup we had last season. Keith Rivers and Rey Maualuga, USC linebacker tandem flanking Dhani Jones at Middle ...

Did Peter King just give the Cincinnati Bengals props?
Cincy Jungle — When are the Bengals ever a sexy story? Chad Johnson's return; I mean, really, return. Chris Henry morphing into this completely new character we've never seen before. I have a lot of anxiety to see what Bernard Scott can do. Rashad Jeanty vs. Rey Maualuga. Carson Palmer returning, claiming to be as strong as he's been before his accidental injury during the Wild Card game. Maybe never. It's always best to be the underdogs, right? Logically, justifiably and realistically so, people won't give the Bengals ...

The Bengals Feel Optimistic and Confident
Cincy Jungle — ... also from the Cowboys.  The Bengals defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer, was Williams's first defensive coordinator at Dallas.  Williams was a 5 time Pro Bowler before suffering a fractured forearm early last season.  His last full season, 2007, Williams was credited with 92 tackles, of which 73 were solo.  He may become the run stopping safety that Bengals have been looking for. What I consider the biggest surprise of the offseason was the drafting of Rey Maualuga, former USC teammate of Keith Rivers.  He could become ...

Charting Contracts for the Bengals 2009 Rookie Class
Cincy Jungle — ... Andre Smith OT         2 2 Rey Maualuga LB     ...

Dhani Jones is more than safe; Cincinnati is a great fit for Brian Leonard
Cincy Jungle — ... have a collection of young linebackers. In truth, if you include the unsigned Rey Maualuga, the Bengals will have four linebackers under contract -- and one of them is named Dan Skuta -- in 2010. If a new Collective Bargaining Agreement is signed, and the years of service criteria defines free agents, ...

The Bengals Defense Could Make it 3 in the AFC North
Cincy Jungle — ... .  During this past draft, the Bengals had some luck fall their way when Rey Maualuga fell into their lap, who should draw playing time away from a veteran from last season.  Plus, lining up alongside former USC teammate ...

Sam Wyche ranked as one the of motivational coaches in history; reactions to hard knocks shows pointless "expert opinion"
Cincy Jungle — In James Walker's latest mailbag, the following question was asked. Nick from Cincinnati, Ohio, writes: With the Bengals drafting inside linebacker Rey Maualuga, will he sit behind starter Dhani Jones or be moved to left outside linebacker so he can start? Now I got to thinking -- whether you go to Cincy Jungle or not -- shouldn't you have at least a working knowledge of how the team plans on using Maualuga? More responses to the Bengals making the playoffs. NFL.com discusses the ...

Primary Concerns for the Secondary
Pride Of Detroit — ... Thank God for Mayhew upsetting all of us Lions fans and taking Delmas instead of Rey Maualuga with the 33rd pick this year.  Without Delmas, the safety position would be a total disaster.  It's anyone's guess who will be where come September - aside from Delmas.  But I think we all need to remember that while Delmas is a virtual lock for one of the starting positions, he's still a rookie and won't be a Polamalu out of the gates.  He will make mistakes and he will need to adjust to the game. ...

Keith Rivers will breakout and Kevin Huber will surprise; two-game packs to go on sale Saturday
Cincy Jungle — ESPN conducted a anonymity poll with 32 NFL players with "eight from each AFC North team", asking who will be the breakout player in the division. Six said Keith Rivers (who led all vote getters in the division), two said Chris Henry with single votes going to Cedric Benson and Rey Maualuga. Who Dey Fans are getting impatient that movement on the Andre Smith front isn't moving. I can't argue that -- at all. Would love to see Smith in camp -- figure he's better off being with the team, than without. ...

Report: Chase Coffman close to signing
Cincy Jungle — ... You know the count, you know numbers. As of this posting, the Bengals have signed all five of their sixth and seventh round picks. Left are Andre Smith, Rey Maualuga, Michael Johnson, Chase Coffman, Jonathan Luigs and punter, Kevin Huber. We figure that Smith will be a long holdout and that Maualuga, Johnson, Coffman, Luigs and Huber will sign at the eleventh hour. Of those, Coffman is the most confident to sign soon with the Bengals, writes Carlos Holmes. "There is no way I am not ...

New season draws close; Bengals in the playoffs?
Cincy Jungle — ... on the offensive line. Defensive changes. More blitzes. Refined offensive playbook, which still holds an aura of mystery as to what that actually means. There's within this dynamic an uncertainty. Reports suggest that this is the best team, on paper, that Marvin Lewis has put together. Great draft. Solid free agent signings to, at most, fill in gaps and strengthen the depth chart. Return of USC alumni players in Palmer and Keith Rivers and the introduction of another in Rey Maualuga. Where this team is four to five months from now, is ...

Bengals sign their fifth-round pick, punter Kevin Huber
Cincy Jungle — ... Huber is the team's sixth player from the 2009 NFL Draft that the Bengals have signed. The remaining players are Andre Smith, Rey Maualuga, Michael Johnson, Chase Coffman and Jonathan Luigs. Make sure you check in on the chart while the team signs rookies. Here's the Press Release (via Lance McAlister's blog): The Bengals today signed punter Kevin Huber of the University of Cincinnati, the team's fifth-round draft selection in this year?s draft. Huber (6-1, 210), the first ...

Bengals Pass Rush desperately needs to improve; Vick doesn't "deserve" NFL return -- he has to earn it
Cincy Jungle — ... is the Bengals pass rush. Robert Geathers is returning from injury. Antwan Odom is adding bulk, while keeping his quickness. Round out the position with Frostee Rucker and Jonathan Fanene -- serviceable in their own right, but easily upgradable as well. Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has spoken this off-season about being more aggressive against the pass, combining different blitzing schemes with linebackers and safeties. Keith Rivers and Rey Maualuga, you figure, will be a big part of that, as well as Chris ...

Bengals sign fourth-round draft pick Jonathan Luigs; seven down and only four to go
Cincy Jungle — ... is likely a four-year deal, which we presume is the minimum base pay ($1.75 million) but a higher signing bonus than what punter Kevin Huber signed. Both Luigs and Huber's deals are still undisclosed. (UPDATE: Joe Reedy writes that Luigs' deal is around $2.259 million "with a signing bonus of approximately $509,000") Luigs brings the count of drafted players signed to NFL contracts to seven, with Chase Coffman, Michael Johnson, Rey Maualuga and Andre Smith unsigned -- all players drafted in the ...

NFC West Roundtable: Inside Linebacker
Field Gulls — ... , with their second round pick. He has the size and ability to read and react well to action in the gaps in front of him, and displayed real talent against the run and in coverage. Most importantly, Little Animal has the intelligence and football acumen to be the "field general" that Spagnuolo has traditionally asked his middle linebackers to play. Laurinaitis won't be known for bone crushing hits like Rey Maualuga, the other top MLB in this year's draft, but he's a solid tackler and a tough player. Lots of draft pundits felt like NFL success early on was a ...

NFC West Position-by-Position: Inside Linebackers
Arizona Cardinals Community Blog - Fanster.com - Voice of the Cardinals — ... , with their second round pick. He has the size and ability to read and react well to action in the gaps in front of him, and displayed real talent against the run and in coverage. Most importantly, Little Animal has the intelligence and football acumen to be the "field general" that Spagnuolo has traditionally asked his middle linebackers to play. Laurinaitis won't be known for bone crushing hits like Rey Maualuga, the other top MLB in this year's draft, but he's a solid tackler and a tough player. Lots of draft pundits felt like NFL success early on was a ...

NFC West position review: middle linebacker
Turf Show Times — ... , with their second round pick. He has the size and ability to read and react well to action in the gaps in front of him, and displayed real talent against the run and in coverage. Most importantly, Little Animal has the intelligence and football acumen to be the "field general" that Spagnuolo has traditionally asked his middle linebackers to play. Laurinaitis won't be known for bone crushing hits like Rey Maualuga, the other top MLB in this year's draft, but he's a solid tackler and a tough player. Lots of draft pundits felt like NFL success early on ...

Bengals Training Camp: Pressure on the quarterback has to be the focus for the defense
Cincy Jungle — ... Rey Maualuga could figure into pass rushing equation as well. Learning a new position, moving from the middle to the outside, will take time, especially with pass coverage. Would the Bengals choose to rush Maualuga rather than throwing him into pass coverage? The 2008 Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year and Bednarik Award winner (NCAA defensive player of the year) could be a sort of Wild Card in all of this. His physicality could put enough pressure on the quarterback to step out of the pocket, or force bad throws. Either way, the Bengals need that Wild ...

Report: Maualuga and Coffman could be signed as early as Monday; breaking down possibilities during Andre Smith negotiations
Cincy Jungle — ... With the Cincinnati Bengals holding their first Training Camp practice this Friday (yes, this freaking Friday, baby!), there's a likelihood that we'll start seeing the final four draft picks sign this week. Well, three I suppose, presuming Andre Smith doesn't sign before Cincinnati mayor Mark Mallory returns from his streetcar education out West. Rey Maualuga and Chase Coffman "could be signed as early as Monday, Tuesday at the latest" writes Carlos "Big C" Holmes (we're still wondering ...

Bengals linebackers will be the most exciting group to watch; Prisco ranks the Bengals 13th?!; Roger Goodell Presser on Michael Vick
Cincy Jungle — ... (7.1 tackles per game in seven games) combining with rookie Rey Maualuga, this unit will be a very exciting group to watch this season. ...

Bengals Release their 2009 Depth Chart for Training Camp
Cincy Jungle — ... Coffman is listed under "Other", behind Reggie Kelly, Ben Utecht and Daniel Coats, who is apparently moving back to tight end. Defensively, the team lists their safeties as Roy Williams (strong) and Chris Crocker (free) -- acquisitions picked up dating back to the middle of last season. Chinedum Ndukwe and Marvin White, two of the team's 2007 draft picks, are the primary backups. Rashad Jeanty is listed over Rey Maualuga (which we expected) and Domata Peko and Pat Sims ...

Bengals Training Camp: The vastly improved Bengals linebackers will be fun to watch this year
Cincy Jungle — ... Francisco 49ers, was waived in late November but re-signed in early December. Caleb Miller and Anthony Schlegel haven't signed on with another team and you have to assume Lemar Marshall is retired, after rupturing his Achilles tendon that year. Brooks, Frazier and Johnson, players that left Cincinnati and signed on with new teams, have combined to start zero games. Dhani Jones signed on in 2007 and solidified the team's inside linebacker spot. Keith Rivers and Rey Maualuga were draft picks in 2008 and 2009 respectively. The Bengals ...

MLB James Laurinaitis agrees to deal with the St. Louis Rams
Turf Show Times — ... Laurinaitis figures heavily in the team's plans this season, where they expect him to be an every down contributor to the defense. He was considered one of the top middle linebacker prospects in this year's draft, along with USC's Rey Maualuga. Both players were drafted early in the second round, and many felt like Laurinaitis could have been a top ten pick had he left Ohio State after his junior season. ...

Report: Bengals and Rey Maualuga agree to a four-year deal
Cincy Jungle — ... I swear. A few hours ago, I stepped away from the computer thinking to myself, "Rey Maualuga won't sign while I'm gone." Less then an hour later, the ...

Report: Bengals and Michael Johnson agree to a four-year deal
Cincy Jungle — ... Hours after news broke that Rey Maualuga agreed to a four-year deal worth a total value of $4.66 million, Richard Kopelman, the agent for Michael Johnson, said that his client will be signing a four-year deal soon. Geoff Hobson writes that the deal is " ...

NFC West Roundtable: Outside Linebacker
Field Gulls — ... , with their second round pick. He has the size and ability to read and react well to action in the gaps in front of him, and displayed real talent against the run and in coverage. Most importantly, Little Animal has the intelligence and football acumen to be the "field general" that Spagnuolo has traditionally asked his middle linebackers to play. Laurinaitis won't be known for bone crushing hits like Rey Maualuga, the other top MLB in this year's draft, but he's a solid tackler and a tough player. Lots of draft pundits felt like NFL success early on was a ...

Benson's hard rushing causes "brief scuffle" with Dhani and Rivers; Maualuga had a "good shot" on Henry
Cincy Jungle — ... No one was injured during Friday's session. Cedric Benson ran hard, and got into a "brief scuffle" with Dhani Jones and Keith Rivers. Even though Fui Vakapuna is the team's starter, Jeremi Johnson came into camp "in the 275-pound range" and actually participated in Training Camp. Palmer's first day was very rusty. "He had zip but not pinpoint control," writes Hobson. Rey Maualuga and Chase Coffman signed autographs for fans until ...

In the most manly way of saying things, Jeremi Johnson looks good; David Jones tweaked his left ankle
Cincy Jungle — ... left ankle in practice, but the injury didn't appear serious." However, Geoff Hobson writes that he was wearing a boot after practice. After Jones, the Bengals have three backup cornerbacks: Rico Murray, Morgan Trent and Geoffrey Pope. WDR promotes their ninth Project Mayham Task: Flying a plan over Georgetown saying "I Can Only See One Scout From Here." Chinedum Ndukwe had his second interception in camp and Rey Maualuga was the last player signing autographs. The Bengals ...

Once signed, Smith will have every opportunity to win right tackle job; Maualuga runs with first-team defense
Cincy Jungle — ... While no news has been presented this weekend about his holdout -- or, as Marvin Lewis said, "it's not a holdout", he's just unsigned and forbidden by NFL law to be here -- the head coach did say that once Smith makes his debut with the team, he'll get every opportunity to start at right tackle. Rashad Jeanty sat out the second practice on Saturday, riding a "stationary bike just as a precaution to rest his lower leg. Rookie linebacker Rey Maualuga took the first-team reps Saturday night." John ...

Is Jordan Palmer winning the backup quarterback job?
Cincy Jungle — ... Much of it depending on this year, and how well Rey Maualuga works out at outside linebacker, would the Bengals entertain a look at another ...

Brandon Johnson and Ben Utecht out against the Saints; Maualuga is questionable
Cincy Jungle — ... ," Marvin Lewis said during a Wednesday afternoon press conference, "Getting (Keith) Rivers back out there this week has been good, and we will make a determination of what to do with Rey Maualuga later on. If not this week, he will play next week." ...

Hard Knocks Episode One: Fullbacks, Tight Ends and Pissitivity
Cincy Jungle — ... Chad Ochocinco Johnson had some moments -- if you didn't know that Chad can actually be a very funny person, you do now. Head coach Marvin Lewis grins that Chad's always on that computer, twittering and doing ustream. Carson Palmer was shown at one point talking Chad up, saying they can't take plays off. We also learned about "child, please", which is a nice way of saying "fuck you." Rey Maualuga points out that Gus Parrish looks like American Idol's Randy Jackson with his glasses. He does. It's freaking scary. They momentarily featured ...

The Bengals are 1-6 all-time in preseason against the New Orleans Saints
Cincy Jungle — ... the third quarter. During last year's dress rehearsal against New Orleans, the Bengals started the game punting ten consecutive times before Jordan Palmer threw a pick to the end the game in a shutout (0-13). Talk about preseason forecasting the regular season. Several players will be out tonight; which includes Dan Santucci, Ben Utecht, David Jones, Brandon Johnson, Evan Mathis, Antonio Chatman and Pernell Phillips. Rey Maualuga was deemed questionable earlier in the week. Carson ...

Open Thread: Cincinnati Bengals (0-0) at New Orleans Saints (0-0)
Cincy Jungle — ... The Bengals kickoff the 2009 Preseason in New Orleans against the Saints. We pointed out earlier on Friday that the Bengals are on a six-game losing streak against the Saints during the preseason, with the last win coming in 1975. A few things to look for, from reader The Dealio. Injuries: Dan Santucci, Ben Utecht, David Jones, Brandon Johnson, Evan Mathis, Antonio Chatman and Pernell Phillips. Geoff Hobson writes that Rey Maualuga "probably won't be [playing] either as he battles a ...

Bengals Win Super Bowl XLIV - A Look Back on How They Did It
Cincy Jungle — ... emerged as a beast, being named AFC Defensive Player of the Year.  Rookie LB Rey Maualuga was always around the ball, becoming much more of a presence than the Bengals expected last April when he slid to pick #38. ...

Buying a Bengals Jersey Sucks
Cincy Jungle — ... jerseys are still available, albeit at discount.  Mind you, Thurman hasn't played a down for the Bengals since 2005, but yet, you can still rock his jersey if his rookie season meant that much to you.  The awesome jersey hits don't stop there either -- there are jerseys for Rudi Johnson, Housh, and Deltha O'Neal.  In fact, there are as many jerseys for non-Bengals (three) as there are for current Bengals (Carson Palmer, Chad Ochocinco and Rey Maualuga). Oh, and adding insult to the injury that is the Andre ...

Introductions and an overview of preseason game Numero Dos
Cincy Jungle — ... got paid three years ago after a double-digit sack season.  He looked like the guy that terrorized the late Steve McNair during the 2007 season opener.  With the solid D-line play (more to come on that later) that we've been hoping for, maybe it will finally free Geathers and Odom up to put some heat on the opposing quarterback.  Good pressure was also applied at times by many other players including Pat Sims, Tom Nelson, Keith Rivers and Rey Maualuga.  3.)  J.T. O'Sullivan looked very good ...

Depth of the 2009 Cincinnati Bengals Part 2: Defense
Cincy Jungle — ... , rookies Rey Maualuga and Michael Johnson are the primary reasons that the defense is so deep this year. Add to the mix that ...

Strength in numbers; an examination of who the Bengals started the regular season since 2006
Cincy Jungle — ... stability force who would join the team later in the year, became the most productive middle linebacker during Marvin Lewis' tenure. By 2008, the linebackers were on pace to be the most talented group assembled, taking less into the regular season while numerically increasing their numbers at other spots, like running back, defensive tackles -- two spots with limited production. You'll obviously see that again this year, with Jones, Jeanty, Rivers, Brandon Johnson and Rey Maualuga as the depth leaders. Running backs is another example. In ...

Cincinnati Bengals Links and Notes: Monday 8/24
Cincy Jungle — ... but let his weight slip. Will Bengals keep him?" Good question John. We're carrying 3 serviceable fullbacks. Who should make the team? Spinmaster Geoff Hobson optimistically writes that the success of the Bengals defense this year rests on the shoulders of now-veteran cornerbacks Johnathan Joseph and Leon Hall. Paraphrasing Hobson, who paraphrased Mike Zimmer: Domata Peko is awesome, Rey Maualuga performed well when called upon to Blitz, and Chris Crocker and Roy Williams ...

Getting to know the Bengals
Turf Show Times — ... This has been a great class. Rey Maualuga shows flashes of his talents; ranging from reckless abandonment, shooting through gaps and clogging the point of attack. Speed and aggression are his best attributes; however lack recognition and over-aggressiveness have also shown to be his biggest liability. Moving from middle linebacker to outside linebacker has risen concerns about his coverage skills, which we expect will take some time. As of now, he’s the backup strong side linebacker with an inside track to being the team’s middle linebacker once ...

Chapter 1, Game 3 - @ Cincinnati Bengals (Aug. 27th)
Turf Show Times — ... against ATL.  While Steven Jackson will probably be off the field as soon as possible, the running backs behind him have to do more with less.  Kenneth Darby was able to hammer out 30 yards on 7 carries, whil Samkon Gado rushed 12 times... for 5 yards.  We could see somewhat similar results against the Bengals, especially if Darby sits out.   At LB, they feature Keith Rivers at WLB who is a very capable OLB.  Of course they drafted Rey Maualuga just 3 picks after we took James Laurinaitis, so they ...

Personal Highlights from Hard Knocks Episode III
Cincy Jungle — ... for the first time last week at New England, an explanation of Chad's other catch phrase of the minute and a look at the Rookie Show the night before camp broke at Georgetown.  I'll quickly detail a couple of my favorite moments from last night's show and open the comment thread for each of you to discuss the points I make and talk about your favorite segment below.  -During the rookie show I love love loved the Samoan dance and chant led by Fui Vakapuna and Rey Maualuga.  I wish the Bengals would do that before every ...

Open Thread: St. Louis Rams (1-1) at Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)
Cincy Jungle — ... dead last in the league. This was a primary point of emphasis we made last week in the thread, hoping not only that the team sustain drives, but finish them with points. The game won't be on live television tonight for those in the Cincinnati area, but a replay will broadcast at 11:35 PM tonight on Local 12. Tonight is coined the "Dress Rehearsal", where the starters will see significant playing time. What I want to see... - More Tom Nelson and more Rey Maualuga and more out of Laveranues Coles. - The continuing ...

Post-game Links and Notes against the St. Louis Rams
Cincy Jungle — ... Leading the way was linebacker Rey Maualuga, who recorded a team-high eight tackles. Robert Geathers recorded two tackles for loss and five different Bengals players made hits on the quarterback. No sacks were recorded; however it should be also noted that the Rams' passing offense was primarily quick three-step drops and release. Rashad Jeanty's coverage skills are very good -- on one pass, he was in the tight end's hip, but the pass was perfect. Sometimes you just can't defend against a perfect pass. However, don't ask James ...

Bengals vs. Rams preseason game recap
Cincy Jungle — ... , fantasy hero of yesteryear, prances into the endzone with 8:20 remaining in quarter one.  Watching this once more I saw that Rey Maualuga read the play perfectly and flew into the runner's lane at mach one but was nudged out by the left tackle.  There was no one behind him in the lane to pick him up and it resulted in a St. Louis touchdown.  From what I can tell, Chindedum Ndukwe should have been the man who had the best opportunity to pick up after Maualuga was blocked out as he was the furthest back, but he read the play badly and was on ...

Game Rewind: How much was the Bengals offensive line to blame for the six sacks allowed against the Rams?
Cincy Jungle — ... Don't write off Jeanty just yet. Even though Rey Maualuga is getting all of the publicity (and being totally bad ass in the process), ...

Predicting the Cincinnati Bengals' 53-man roster. A look into the minds of CincyJungle writers
Cincy Jungle — ...       Dhani Jones Tight Ends (2) Daniel Coats   Rey Maualuga   Chase Coffman   ...

Presenting the Cincinnati Bengals 53-man Roster; and immediate reaction, of course
Cincy Jungle — ... Chase Coffman   Rashad Jeanty   J.P. Foschi   Rey Maualuga     ...

If you look at the Cincinnati Bengals roster, you have to ask yourself, is this team better than 2008?
Cincy Jungle — ... will retake his spot as the team's weak-side linebacker and it's evident that the Bengals coaching staff wants to start Rey Maualuga over Jeanty on the strong-side. Having two guys that combined for 209 tackles just shouts to the heavens that the Bengals strongest position, in terms of depth, is linebackers. The team's starting middle linebacker, ...

Bengals News and Notes: Labor Day Edition
Cincy Jungle — ... It's labor day! That means a lot of people don't have work. But we don't take days off at Cincy Jungle, the people must be informed. Here's what's made Bengal news around the net over the weekend: Joe Reedy has a bunch of odds concerning the Bengals for the 2009-2010 season. The Bengals are 60/1 favorites(?) to win the Super Bowl. Rey Maualuga is has 10/1 odds of winning the DRoY award. Jeff Schudel of the News-Herald has an AFC North synopsis/preview of sorts. He compares the AFC North to the AL East ...

Bengals players plead to fans to come to the game; countdown towards the regular season is closing
Cincy Jungle — ... teams play with a little less passion and a lot of it has to do that none of the games are sold out. The bigger the crowd, the more excitement we have to play well.” Dave points out that Mike Brown wouldn't even do what Dan Snyder did (how's that for a tease, Dave?) WhoDeyFans compares offensive players at respective positions to last year. One Man Crimewave likes keeping Chris Pressley on the practice squad. Rey Maualuga is excited about being the team's starter. “I’m ...

Will the Bengals sellout by Friday afternoon; Troy Polamalu out against the Bengals in week three?
Cincy Jungle — ... of the styles of past Denver teams along with what McDaniels did in New England." “They’re going to try and spread the ball out as much as possible. I know they’re not going to play smashmouth against us,” Zimmer said. The Broncos head coach might be the Denver Broncos head coach, but Josh McDaniels is an Ohio guy. Chick Ludwig wonders how Keith Rivers, Carson Palmer, Rey Maualuga and Frostee Rucker will react Sunday morning after the ...

Previewing the Kansas City Chiefs 2009 Schedule: Week 16
Arrowhead Pride — ... Our defense will bring our level back up, no doubt. There are too many questions with our offensive line to suggest we’ll get that 2005 magic back. The Bengals finished 12th on defense last year and added talented rookies like Rey Maualuga and Michael Johnson and acquired veterans ...

Blaming is such an easy thing to do; but I'm not blaming the Bengals defense
Cincy Jungle — ... Before the Broncos scored on the 87-yard touchdown to win the game, the Bengals defense held the Broncos offense to only 215 yards of offense. They forced eight punts, five three-and-outs, three sacks and on only three possessions did the Broncos offense record more than one first down. Rey Maualuga recorded eight tackles, including two on special teams. ...

Fundamentals wasn't a problem with the Bengals; players staying positive is a good thing
Cincy Jungle — ... said, "I think we played good as a defense, and I look forward to the rest of the season because I think we have a good thing going." Domata Peko said, "We had a couple sacks (Sunday) from the front four. We have to move forward and forget about this game." Andre Caldwell sees the positives as a team, tweeting, "We are a team so we all improve as individuals but most importantly we will get better as a team in all phases." Rey Maualuga promises, "We are gonna do some great things this ...

Previewing Cincinnatti's Visit To Lambeau
Acme Packing Company — ... (usually a great running team) to 75 yards with no attempt going for more than 14 yards.  The recent additions of Rey Maualuga and Roy Williams, combined with ...

Open Thread II: Cincinnati Bengals @ Green Bay Packers
Cincy Jungle — ... a very good day. The Bengals converted a third-and-34 on a pass to Coats, who fumbled the football. The football went past the first down marker and Laveranues Coles recovered it. On that drive, Palmer hit Chad Ochocinco on a 44-yard flea flicker. The Bengals would score later on the drive. Chris Crocker has been called for two pass interference calls and hasn't been the consistent defensive back that we've known him to be. Antwan Odom and Rey Maualuga have one sack each. Even though Palmer's two ...

Open Thread: Bengals beat the Packers 31-24, behind Antwan Odom's five sacks
Cincy Jungle — ... the Bengals won the football game. I've never felt so many roller coaster of emotions through two regular season games in my life. Other things to take note: Antwan Odom recorded five quarterback sacks in the game, tying Eddie Edwards for most in a single game in franchise history. However, they weren't just sacks. They were critical in the situations; like knocking the Packers out of field goal range, or forcing long-situations or forcing a punt. Rey Maualuga recorded four tackles, a sack and two forced fumbles. ...

Game Rewind: Bengals beat the Packers with momentum, karma and Antwan Odom
Cincy Jungle — ... . There's no logic in denying that. Against the Packers, they established great sustaining drives. Defensively, what can you say? Rey Maualuga and ...

Predictions are fun when they're accurate; Bengals' green giant Dennis Roland gets snaps at Tight End
Cincy Jungle — ... for a score in 21 months. After his five-sack performance, Antwan Odom says: "This is not a dream." Odom is on pace for 56 quarterback sacks. That would be a good season. The last time Odom had five sacks in a game? He was a junior at Alma Bryant High School in Alabama. Dave at Stripe Hype, who goes by another name on this site which is also the title of a Todd Snider song, compares all linebackers taken in the NFL draft up to Rey Maualuga. You find me anyone on any NFL team site that tracks ...

Primer: Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) at Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)
Cincy Jungle — ... Laveranues Coles recorded his first touchdown reception as a Cincinnati Bengal against the Green Bay Packers. Last week, Chad Ochocinco, Chris Henry and Laveranues Coles each recorded a touchdown receiving. Antwan Odom recorded five sacks last week (in case you were in a coma from Sunday until this very moment) tying Eddie Edwards for most in a game in franchise history. Odom leads the NFL with seven sacks. Rookie linebacker Rey Maualuga recorded his first sack last week against the Green Bay ...

Cincinnati Bengals Links and Notes: Wednesday 9/23
Cincy Jungle — ... ." I'm not quite sure how they missed the fact that Rey Maualuga forced 2 fumbles against the Packers, but he's in as the second best defensive player at #5. Any guesses at who's #1? ...

Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) @ Cincinnati Bengals (1-1): Q&A With Cincy Jungle
Behind the Steel Curtain — ... and Rey Maualuga. The rushing defense isn't great by any means, but their improvement each week doesn't go unnoticed. ...

It's always about the fourth quarter; the Bengals showed us something
Cincy Jungle — ... It would be wise to say the Bengals game-winning touchdown drive as, thus far, the marquee comeback performance of the season. They were down 13-0 in the first half before converting a late first half field goal. Late in the third quarter, the Bengals started feeling it; Leon Hall had left and Rey Maualuga was being carted off after Ben Roethlisberger stretched into the endzone on a quarterback sneak with 3:04 left in the third quarter. Things looked bad. Then, on fourth-and-three at the Cincinnati 38-yard line with 1:32 ...

Bengals' Fans Make Your Plans - The Bandwagon Is On Its Way to Miami
Cincy Jungle — ... First, Rey Maualuga is a beast.  The addition of Maualuga has seemingly brought a whole new level of intensity to the defense.  Moreover, the Bengals' newfound physicality puts them at the top of the division.  Both the aged ...

Under further review: When the defense stepped up, the Bengals took advantage
Cincy Jungle — ... Even though Sweed dropped the easy touchdown pass and Reed missed the field goal attempt, the Bengals didn't take advantage, going three-and-out; actually run-run-pass-punt. The Steelers went 75 yards on 11 plays on the ensuing drive, finishing the drive with a one-yard touchdown run by Roethlisberger. Rey Maualuga was carted off and whatever momentum the Bengals built, was dying (if not dead). ...

Marvin Lewis on injuries after game: "We have the usual football soreness"
Cincy Jungle — ... left for some time, but returned. Rey Maualuga was actually carted off. He had a sniff of Old Spice in the lockerroom and returned to the game. Because he's a man. ...

Marvin Lewis goes the way of Presidents; more post-win reaction
Cincy Jungle — ... Rey Maualuga was embarrassed for coming back into the game because he was carted out earlier. "It sort of scared me because I felt something pop. I said, I’m still all right, I’m still able to move. ...

PRIMER: Cincinnati Bengals (2-1) at Cleveland Browns (0-3)
Cincy Jungle — ... 7 1st         Forced Fumbles Ranking Rey Maualuga 2 t-1st CAREER ...

Domata Peko, Jonathan Fanene and Rey Maualuga affected by Samoan quakes and tsunami
Cincy Jungle — ... and leaving at least 99 dead and dozens missing. President Obama is sending relief supplies, calling a "major disaster declaration for the territory of American Samoa." The Bengals have several Samoans on roster this year. Domata Peko got word that his entire family is alright. Jonathan Fanene's immediate family is alright, however, he lost "four relatives on his father’s side". As of Wednesday afternoon, linebacker Rey Maualuga is "still trying to contact his younger brother". ...

Denver Broncos Thoughts and Musings - Cowboys Week
The Mile High Report — ... - getting clocked by Rey Maualuga. There were groans and cries that he stank, that he would get our receivers killed. Was that the case, or was Orton doing his job and the receivers living with theirs? There isn't a clear answer, but here are some perspectives that may help you understand what happened. ...

Numberless and nameless jerseys means the Bengals aren't taking Cleveland lightly
Cincy Jungle — ... | Carson Palmer transcript The Cincinnati Bengals offense "might not have the type of team that can zip past anybody. The 2009 Bengals seem more likely to plow through an opponent than streak by it." Pete Prisco says that Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph are on their way to becoming one of the league's best cornerback duo. After beating the Steelers last Sunday, WDR reminds you: Mike Brown is still the owner. Rey Maualuga and Marvin Lewis aren't counting the linebacker out Sunday ...

Rey Maualuga nominated for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month
Cincy Jungle — ... , Rey Maualuga was considered and nominated for the September NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month. Maualuga has started all three games this season, ranks fourth on the team with 15 tackles, has also recorded a sack and forced two fumbles. Not a bad start for a guy that 31 other teams passed up on, some twice. ...

Laurinaitis not even considered for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month
Turf Show Times — ... Ok, so you can make the argument for Delmas over Laurinaitis. Here's the real slight: Laurinaitis wasn't even nominated for the award. Instead a kicker, Rey Maualuga and four others were nominated. Here's the list with the official write up for each player from the NFL's official press release: ...

Getting to Know the Enemy: Cincy Jungle Talks About the Improved Bengals
Dawgs By Nature — ... "After year's of the Bengals defense widely being considered a joke with a lot of "busts", what has changed that the defensive unit is now playing at the top of its game?" Josh: "Last year we said that our best offseason pickup was Mike Zimmer, the Bengals’ defensive coordinator. He came in with an iron fist and the defensive players responded favorably. Plus, we’ve acquired decent talent in the past two years, ranging from Keith Rivers, Rey Maualuga, Brandon Johnson, Chris Crocker, Roy Williams, ...

Game Review: Your Cincinnati Bengals are 3-1. The rest is just background noise
Cincy Jungle — ... , who for some reason, was very slow in reaction. Rey Maualuga, while still aggressive as hell, guessed the wrong point of attack, leaving massive holes beside him. ...

Shallow Thoughts & Nearsighted Observations
The Mile High Report — ... really be that. d.  Brian Cushing continues to be a very good player for the Texans, amid a morass of below-averageness and mismatched skill-sets on defense.  In a few weeks, maybe week 8 or so, we'll review the list of guys I went on record as liking prior to the Draft, and let's just say for now that it's looking really good for my credibility as a talent evaluator. e.  A guy who I didn't like that much, who has done very well so far, is Rey Maualuga, for the Bengals.  He's playing strongside LB in ...

Bengals First Quarter Review: Saying satisfied like only Billy Dee Williams can
Cincy Jungle — ... Tackles Keith Rivers 29 Dhani Jones 25 Rey Maualuga 19 Brandon Johnson ...

Primer: Cincinnati Bengals (3-1) at Baltimore Ravens (3-1)
Cincy Jungle — ... 8 t-1st         Forced Fumbles Ranking Rey Maualuga 2 t-4th CAREER AGAINST THE BROWNS ...

Bengals Defense Front & Center
Cincy Jungle — ... and Rey Maualuga must neutralize the speed game of the Ravens run attack with some sideline to sideline speed. But it will take penetration by the defensive line to stop Rice and McGahee in the backfield and at the line of scrimmage. ...

Bengals waive Pope, sign Dan "Stuka" Skuta off the practice squad
Cincy Jungle — ... with. He did fully practice on Wednesday and Thursday] and you can assume he'll be seeing his first action this Sunday against the Ravens since injuring his foot early in Training Camp. As a result, the Bengals decided to waive cornerback Geoffrey Pope and sign our boy, linebacker Dan "Stuka" Skuta off the team's practice squad. As Joe Reedy observes, Skuta is the third college free agent on the roster this year, behind Tom Nelson and Quan Cosby. Rey Maualuga is still recovering from his knee injury against the ...

Carson Palmer says we're scoring. Andre Caldwell says I'll catch it. Everyone says win it for Zimmer. Bengals beat Ravens 17-14 and own AFC North
Cincy Jungle — ... A story about how a defense doesn't have to be flashy. Just reliable. The Ravens were driving the football during their first drive of the game. The ease in which the Ravens moved the ball was troubling. Eight-yard pass to Heap. Four-yard run by Rice. Nine-yard scramble by Flacco. Six-yard pass to Rice. Five-yard pass to Heap. Nine-yard pass to McClain. Twenty-one yard pass to Rice. These were chunk-yardage plays that quickly tires a defense. After Rey Maualuga tackled Rice for a one-yard loss at the Bengals 14-yard line, and after Flacco ...

Bengals will hold a conference call Wednesday night for Bengals fans
Cincy Jungle — ... Bengals will be hosting a Fan Forum, where "you'll even have an opportunity to ask questions and voice comments to your team!" Former Bengals kicker Jim Breech will host the conference call which, we gather, is an attempt to get Bengals fans to purchase tickets for Sunday's game against the Houston Texans which, at last report, is looking very likely to not sellout. Along with Breech, Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis will join Chad Ochocinco, Rey Maualuga, Dhani Jones and Andrew Whitworth as part of a ...

Texans Down the Cardiac Cats
Battle Red Blog — ... Speaking of holdouts... here's a kid who is showing up on the stat sheet week in and week out.  In a showcase showdown with his former USC teammate, Rey Maualuga, Brian Cushing made his case for being the best backer taken in the 2009 draft.  Sunday, the rookie's stats were gaudy.  ...

Can anyone beat the Bengals when the put it together?; Maualuga's production has dipped, somewhat
Cincy Jungle — ... We still went after it with max effort.” We've known that these guys have the talent; it's always a matter of putting it together. No more drive-stalling penalties, drops or turnovers. Give it to your play makers (Chad Ochocinco) and keep pounding the football (Cedric Benson). And when they played their best game of the year, their most complete game of the year, when they bring their A-game, this team appeared invincible. Even though Rey Maualuga was nominated for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month in ...

3k's 2010 Mock Draft, v2.0 (Nov. 4th)
Turf Show Times — ... now; adding Best gives them a great duo that can offer power and speed, brute force and lithe athleticism.  Cincy has shown this year that they have a very well balanced team with very few holes; more than most teams, they can afford to commit to the draft with a BPA mindset.  That being the case, I don't really expect Best to be the pick.  Either someone more talented will slip through the cracks (as in Spiller or Mays who they could team up with former sledgehammer Rey Maualuga) or they'll grade someone higher than Best as in OLBs ...

The one in which the Bengals' secondary is still awesome and the Bengals take a 4-0 division record...Bengals win 17-7
Cincy Jungle — ... games (thanks, Joe Reedy!).  Williams ran for over a buck in consecutive games over two seasons, 2002-2003 against the Ravens.  To the best of my knowledge, Benson is now the only running back to do it twice in one season.  Fantasy owners continue to laud him with praise and more than likely bouquets of flowers for the point totals he brings.  One of the most impressive plays I've seen this year was the exchange between Kyries Hebert and Rey Maualuga to down a Kevin Huber punt inside the one.  In the ...

Presenting the CincyJungle Bengals Midseason Awards
Cincy Jungle — ... Rookie of the Midseason. The Bengals had a good draft in the spring. Several players are contributors now, like Rey Maualuga, Michael Johnson, ...

Catching Up With The Recent Non-Draft Picks of the Oakland Raiders: 2009 First Two Rounds
Silver And Black Pride — ... in the first, Robiskie in the 2nd, Luigs or Wood in the 3rd, Safety in the 4th, Brinkley in the 6th and the BPA in the 7th. And, of course, LiveAdam through in his two cents: The real question is, if both Mack/Unger/Wood and Robiskie are available to the Raiders with their 2nd round pick, who do they chose?   Other names that were thrown around include Jeremy Maclin, Connor Barwin, Clinton Sintim, Rey Maualuga, Eugene Monroe, Michael Oher, Clay Mathews Jr. ...

Six-Pack of Hu-Dey: Bengals rookies, offensive line and beating the rest of the schedule
Cincy Jungle — Chase Coffman's debut is more than just about being a receiving tight end. All things considered, this year's rookie class has been a solid group of contributors to this football team. Players like Michael Johnson, Morgan Trent and Bernard Scott have improved the team's depth as backup and role players while Rey Maualuga and Kevin Huber already have a handful of starts underneath their belts. However, one high profile player who's being demanded by fans, and questioned by the media, is growing in ...

Is Larry English Ready to Start?
Bolts From The Blue — ... uses his speed to fly around and make players, and Rey Maualuga is the missile-like force we all thought he'd be when we talked about drafting him.  ...

Bengals Banter: Was a deal struck to sellout the Lions game?
Cincy Jungle — ... the blackout to happen because no one believes that there will actually be a blackout. The team is saying they're in danger of a blackout, but nobody believes it'll happen. Fans expect the usual cycle -- an extension will be announced today, tomorrow at 1 they'll say something will be announced at 3 and then 4. At about 3:45 the local TV station will report the game will be on, and then the Bengals will follow and make it official. Rey Maualuga is going to be a staple with this defense for ...

Five Questions with Cincy Jungle
Pride Of Detroit — ... It would be a good place to start, that’s for sure. The team’s pass rush is vastly improved but their rush defense, which ranks third in the NFL, is combined with excellent defensive tackle play and a great linebacker lineup with Rey Maualuga, ...