Strictly Stripes: A Cincinnati Bengals podcast

You probably guessed the top of the list for the Top 25 Bengals for 2023. Joe Burrow rounds out the list with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Shocker, right? But could D.J. Reader and/or Orlando Brown have made a case to beat out Higgins at No. 3 list? In the final-ever edition of the Strictly Stripes Podcast, Mohammad Ahmad breaks down the top-three on the list and reads through the rest of the fan responses. To all of our listeners, thank you for everything. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bengals fans got their wish. Chad Johnson and Boomer Esiason will be inducted into the Bengals Ring of Honor after season ticket holders respectively voted them into the Ring. Arguably the front runners for the induction, they beat out 11 other players on the ballot. But why were their selections so impactful? And who's up next in 2024? The Strictly Stripes crew talks about their selections and continues breaking down the top half of the Top 25 Bengals for 2023. This podcast feautres Mohammad Ahmad. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Training camp is right around the corner. The Bengals are exactly a week away from their first practice of training camp. There's no shortage of roster battle and new faces on defense who will look to set their marks early. How many offensive linemen do the Bengals keep? Which backup wide receivers will make the team? Will we see first-team reps for rookie Chase Brown? Special guest Mike Petraglia joins the Strictly Stripes Podcast to look at how the Bengals' philosophy has shifted in the Joe Burrow era and what that means for training camp. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Experience meets youth. Bengals veteran wideout Tyler Boyd is No. 9 on our Top 25 Bengals for 2023. Meanwhile, Logan Wilson, now entering his fourth season, is hanging tight at No. 10. Both players are worthy of being top-10 players. But does experience matter more than youth in these rankings? Boyd will turn 29 this year as he enters his eighth season while Wilson continues ascending. They'll each be entering contract seasons, meaning more eyes will be on both of them. The Strictly Stripes podcast compares and contrasts the potential for Boyd and Wilson. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bengals' defense isn't the same without Sam Hubbard. Hubbard provides no shortage of big time moments for the Bengals and is primed to continue doing so in 2023. That's why he's No. 11 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023. But should those big time moments have him ranked up higher on the list? He's entering his sixth year with the team and will have an increased leadership role. His role will be critical in fueling the Bengals' hunger for another trip back to the Super Bowl. The Strictly Stripes crew looks at what Hubbard is capable of and what he can do to continue boosting his profile and stock in 2023. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andrew Gillis flies solo to talk about Joe Mixon's contract restructuring and what it means for the Bengals in 2023, and how it impacts the Joe Burrow negotiations. Then, Andrew talks about the latest entrant into our Top 25 Bengals for 2023, linebacker Germaine Pratt. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The AFC North has had a remarkably interesting offseason, with all four teams making major moves to solidify their rosters for the 2023 season. But which team had the best offseason? Andrew Gillis and Jimmy Watkins get together to talk about the Bengals, Browns, Steelers and Ravens, and what to make of their last few months of player and coach acquisition. What do we think of the division headed into the 2023? Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Browns and Bengals both have their franchise quarterbacks in place, so we joined the Orange and Brown Talk crew for their third annual NFL quarterback draft. Andrew Gillis and Mohammad Ahmad join Mary Kay Cabot, Ashley Bastock join Dan Labbe from our Browns beat for the annual tradition of drafting quarterbacks. The intrigue, of course, is where Joe Burrow and Deshaun Watson land. The five go through three rounds, picking 15 quarterbacks and discuss each one. How high does Burrow go in the top five? How much are we betting on Watson's return to pre-Cleveland form? Check out our draft on this special crossover edition of the Orange and Brown Talk and Strictly Stripes podcast. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bengals and Browns each have head continuity with Zac Taylor and Kevin Stefanski, respectively, as they've coached against one another for each of the last four seasons. They've taken both of their teams to the playoffs and are quickly rising in the coaching ranks. Andrew Gillis joins our Browns reporters, Dan Labbe and Mary Kay Cabot, as part of the annual tradition of an NFL head coach mock draft through the Orange and Brown Talk Podcast. Is Zac Taylor worthy of being called a Top 10 head coach? And how close is Kevin Stefanski to Taylor in the coaching ranks? Is the gap wider than it might actually seem? Check out our draft on this special crossover edition of the Orange and Brown Talk and Strictly Stripes podcast. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns each revamped their rosters this offseason through a series of NFL Draft and free agency moves. But how well do either of their rosters match up against the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers? Andrew Gillis joins our Browns reporters, Dan Labbe and Ashley Bastock, to look at which respective positional groups in Cleveland and Cincinnati stick out as the best of the best in the AFC North right now. They draft what they think are the best positional groups in the division to build the most talented team possible. Where does the Bengals' offense line match up compared to the Browns' talented front? And do Ja'Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins still have the right to boast the top receiving trio in the division? Check out our draft on this special crossover edition of the Orange and Brown Talk and Strictly Stripes podcast. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bengals cornerback Mike Hilton isn't shy of the spotlight. From coining the infamous "Burrowhead" term to his other memorable quotes, Hilton has backed up his talking on the field as one of the best slot cornerbacks in the NFL. More remarkable than his ascension as a former undrafted free agent is the fact that he's been able to provide value for over seven seasons as he enters his third season in Cincinnati. Lou Anarumo values Hilton's play just as he does with all of his cornerbacks. Hilton's leadership, wittiness and hard-hitting plays land him at No. 13 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023. How much higher should Hilton be though? Is No. 13 an adequate ranking for the veteran corner? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at Hilton's status and value in the defensive backfield and contrasts that to other defenders on the list. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Edge rushers and nose tackles should take heed of Bengals left guard Cordell Volson. Volson is no longer a rookie and his massive size and strength aren't going anywhere. The North Dakota-built behemoth has a chance to take off in 2023 with his 6-foot-7 frame between Orlando Brown Jr. and Ted Karras. There were a lot of growing pains for Volson but he slowly but surely found his stride. That's why he's ranked No. 14 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023 thanks to his upside. Will his upside continue proving the Bengals' lofy expectations on the offensive line? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at where Volson can improve and how he can build off of his success from his rookie season. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can't leave the demeanor hound off the list. Bengals center and team captain Ted Karras made a strong first impression in Cincinnati last season and can very well capitalize on that in 2023. Karras was one of the best blockers protecting Joe Burrow in his first season with the team. His role won't change and that's why he's No. 15 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023. On and off the field, Karras is a key cog in the Bengals' offense that Zac Taylor will lean into this season. How much more does Karras need to prove though? Has he proved himself to be one of the best at his position, or, if not, where and how can he get even better? The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down Karras' success last year and how good he can be in 2023 while determing how much that factors into his ranking. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't count out Evan McPherson's role for the Bengals next season. Sometimes special teams stars can get overlooked, especially on the championship contending team like the Bengals. But as the Bengals' kicker, he's a big reason why the team has made the Super Bowl and why they can get back. He's already drawn comparisons to future Hall of Famer and divisional rival Justin Tucker. "Money Mac" and "Shooter McPherson" are some of the many nicknames McPherson has earned from fans for his early success. How much of that success is warranted to put him at No. 16 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023? The Strictly Stripes Podcast debates whether McPherson's positional value outweighs his overall value to rank as high as he does on the list. They also compare and contrast him to other big name starters below him on the list, like running back Joe Mixon. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bengals running back Joe Mixon still has a critical role on the Bengals' offense. Mixon, entering his seventh season with the team, is still on track to start once more behind quarterback Joe Burrow. His rushing numbers last season didn't match his 2021 Pro Bowl season despite setting career highs in the receiving game. Although Mixon is No. 17 on the Top 25 Bengals entering this season, he's aging as he'll be 27 at the start of training camp. Rookie Chase Brown and veteran backup Trayveon Williams might both be staring him down for more snaps this season too. How fast is the clock ticking on Mixon's time in Cincinnati? Will his 2023 season determine whether or not he makes it for another year in 2024? The Strictly Stripes Podcast forecasts Mixon's outlook past this season and guesses how well he needs to perform to maintain continuity with the Bengals. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The futue is looking up for Cam Taylor-Britt. Taylor-Britt already enters a new chapter in his very young NFL career. After taking over as a full-time starter late last season for the Bengals, he'll keep his starting role following the departure of Eli Apple. That means the expectations only get higher from here for Taylor-Britt. But Taylor-Britt looks built for the task. His postseason performances spoke for themselves in Buffalo and Kansas City last year. If Taylor-Britt continues building off of those confident performances, the Bengals secondary might get a big boost in 2023. The Strictly Stripes crew talks about why Taylor-Britt was ranked No. 18 on the Bengals' Top 25 list for 2023 and how the list has shaped thus far. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Things are still a little awkward for Bengals offensive tackle Jonah Williams. Williams returns to Cincinnati as the team's likely starting right tackle but he still has to earn that job first. He still hasn't heard from the team front office on the move that was made to move him to right tackle, which can have ranging implications for next season. He'll be playing at right tackle for the first time since his freshman year at Alabama. How will Williams respond to such a move? Does he thrive on the right side, or will the Bengals' woes continue at that spot? Williams is at No. 19 on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023 list. How much does his move over to the right impact his rank on the list? The Strictly Stripes crew debates whether or not Williams' shift on the line dictates his ranking on the list and his capabilities for next season. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the pressure cooker heating up in the Bengals' secondary? Veteran safety Nick Scott is going to have to take a big lead and a big leap next season as he helps lead the charge in the Bengals' safety room. Teams will try to test Scott and first-year starter Dax Hill next season. Will Scott meet the task and protect the Bengals' success in the red zone? Red zone efficiency was the calling card of then-safeties Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell. Scott is going to have to pick up where the duo left off last season. Scott sits at No. 20 on our Top 25 Bengals of 2023 list. Did Scott's ranking land him right in the sweet spot? Or is that too high of a listing for the relatively inexperienced star? The Strictly Stripes crew weighs in on Scott's ranking compared to other stars on the list and looks at how his past success can help him next season. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

B.J. Hill is a true workhorse. The veteran Bengals defensive tackle, entering his sixth season in the NFL, played some of the highest total snaps amongst his teammates. Cincinnati will need the most out of Hill next season alongside his standout teammate, D.J. Reader. Since joining the Bengals via trade in 2021, his presence hasn't gone unnoticed in the trenches, which is why he's ranked at No. 21 on our Top 25 Bengals for 2023. That ranking might seem low, but is it? The Strictly Stripes crew answers that question and looks what a successful season should - and should not - look like next season for Hill. They also continue reading more fun responses from Bengals fans. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tight end Irv Smith Jr. is going to be a critical piece of the Bengals' offense next season. Smith has some big shoes to fill in place of Hayden Hurst who left the team in free agency back in March. He'll be more than just the fourth option for Bengals quarterback in 2023 though. Hurst's impact on the offense was felt as a receiving threat and Smith will need to replicate that same energy. Smith will have a chance at redemption after being mostly injury-ridden in each of his last two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. What does a successful season look like for Smith? Will it have to look more like what Hurst put together last season or more akin to former Bengal C.J. Uzomah instead? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at Smith's No. 22 ranking on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023 list and determines what Smith needs to do in his first season as a Bengal. Louisville wide receivers coach Garrick McGee joins the podcast to talk about coaching Charlie Jones at Purdue last season in an exclusive phone interview. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dax Hill isn't a rookie anymore. The Bengals safety is going to become a surefire starter in 2023 and will do so without much veteran help by his side. Hill loses veteran safety Vonn Bell but will have new addition Nick Scott by his side. Hill won't have much time to waste learning his new role because he will likely be tested by opposing offenses. The second-year star can't afford to look like a rookie making rookie mistakes. Hill lands at No. 23, no pun intended, on our Top 25 Bengals for 2023, just cracking the list. Is Hill in the right spot? Or does he deserve more praise? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at whether or not Hill is ranked too high or too low on the list, and whether or not he makes a strong enough case to be ranked in the Top 20. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Myles Murphy might be one of the most important backups on the Bengals' entire roster. Murphy won't be a starter in 2023, but his reps will be valuable. The Bengals desperately need juice in the pass rush and that's what he brings to the table. Will he mostly get reps on third down? Does he come in for Trey Hendrickson or for Sam Hubbard? Furthermore, what does defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo expect from his young but talented prospect? And what should a successful season look like for Murphy's rookie year? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at Murphy's No. 24 ranking on the Top 25 Bengals for 2023 list and decides what expectations are worthwhile for Murphy's position. Former Illinois running back coach and current Purdue wide receivers coach Cory Patterson joins the podcast to talk about the process of coaching Bengals' rookie running back Chase Brown in college. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The last year has been tough for Bengals right tackle La'el Collins. After a rocky start to the first half of the 2022 season, Collins eventually found his groove during the Bengals' eight-game win streak to close the regular season. He tore his ACL in Week 16 at New England and is still recovering from that injury with the offseason workouts in the books. Collins was considered a cap casuality going into next year but all signs point to him being a Cincinnati Bengal in 2023. That's why he was ranked at No. 25 on cleveland.com's Top 25 Bengals for 2023 list. But will Collins even be ready for Week 1? And if he is, will he see much of the field, enough for him to make the list? The Strictly Stripes crew debates whether Collins should've ever been on this list and if he's not getting enough credit like he deserves. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The countdown begins for training camp. In five weeks, the Bengals will return back to Cincinnati to report for training camp with the goal of making another run to the Super Bowl. Competition battles are set, the stakes are high and the championship window is in prime position for quarterback Joe Burrow. What did mandatory minicamp mean for their championship hopes though? Several players shined with the few reps that they got whilst other didn't do anything to change their prospects for the 2023 season. Who were they and why? The Strictly Stripes crew closes the book on the Bengals' offseason workouts and sets the stage for the summer leading into training camp. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow keeps himself busy off the field. Burrow has marketed himself in a variety of categories and endeavors using his name and image as a powerful brand. Through a series of endorsements and investments, Burrow has already capitalized on his brand financially. What's his strategy though? How does he put his plan together? That's a question that Burrow can best answer himself, but there are strategists and experts who can best explain the idea of how it comes together. Mohammad Ahmad joins two sports marketing strategists, Todd Fischer and Joe Favorito, as they talk about how and why athletes like Burrow have a specific plan. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and special guests Todd Fischer and Joe Favorito. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bengals' athleticism stretches outside of the gridiron. Logan Wilson's softball game put that on full display on Wednesday. Backup players like Joe Bachie wouldn't pass through most people's minds when thinking of superstars in Cincinnati. He proved those people wrong with his grand slam performance at the plate. Some stars were multisport athletes before they became stars in the NFL. So who are the most athletic stars on the Bengals? And what can their potential become? The Strictly Stripes crew has fun with this edition of the podcast and looks at the most talented Bengals stars away from the gridiron. Special teams star and linebacker Markus Bailey also joins the podcast to talk about his unique role. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonah Williams has broken his silence. The Bengals' offensive tackle publicly spoke for the first time in over five months following a knee injury that sidelined him for his team's postseason's run. And after the addition of Orlando Brown Jr. in free agency, Williams requested a trade due to what he describes as a breakdown in communication. Now that Williams has given his side, why did the Bengals not stay in tune with Williams? Head coach Zac Taylor will be asked about that on Thursday, but, regardless of what the Bengals' front office did, was Williams dealt an unfair hand with how everything unfolded. The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down the timeline of the Williams' trade request from March to today and looks at what that means for the Bengals' offensive line. Bengals veteran wideout Tyler Boyd joins the podcast to talk about the latest chapter of his life as a pro and a dad. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bengals have one more order of business to settle this offseason. Cincinnati holds its mandatory minicamp this week before shutting things down unitl training camp at the end of July. This will be the last glimpse that anyone will have of the Bengals' state of affair for well over a month. There's still much to be settled ahead of training camp. From the status of various injuries and implications surrounding multiple looming extensions, there will be lots to watch this week. How important are these said implications this week? The Strictly Stripes crew breaks down the biggest questions surrounding the Bengals this week. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes the best players move in silence. The Bengals are primed to be Super Bowl contenders because of their visible superstars like Joe Burrow, Sam Hubbard and Ja'Marr Chase to name a few. But not solely because of their visible superstars. Unsung stars like Cam Taylor-Britt, Joseph Ossai and Alex Cappa are some of the many players who helped the Bengals get to this and will continue playing key roles in 2023. Even those three aren't alone. Special contributor Lance Reisland joins the Strictly Stripes crew to look at where the Bengals' underrated strengths lie next season and he looks at the gap between Joe Burrow and Jalen Hurts. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Lance Reisland. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow are both in their own respective ranks. Hurts received a vote for MVP last year and already inked a big time contract this offseason. Burrow is a favorite to win the award next season and is on his way to getting his own mega-extension. Both players have already played in the Super Bowl in each of the last two years and nearly went head-to-head in this past year's big game. And, they just might meet in next year's Super Bowl. How far can Hurts close the gap with Burrow? Will he make a bigger leap than Burrow next year? The Strictly Stripes crew compares and contrasts the different trajectories of Burrow and Mahomes and where they might land next season. Bengals guard Alex Cappa joins the crew to talk about the next chapter of protecting Burrow. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's never too early of a time to start looking at the state of the AFC North. All four quarterbacks in the dvision have the potential to make a big jump heading into 2023. Who will make the biggest jump? Joe Burrow? Deshaun Watson? Kenny Pickett? Lamar Jackson? And are the Bengals cathching up with the strength of the Browns' offensive line? All four teams shuffled up their defensive backfields and either maintained or juiced up the defensive trenches up front. Who has the better net growth on defense and how far will that take either team next year? The Strictly Stripes crew ranks, debates and discusses the different strengths and weaknesses of all four AFC teams and sees where the Bengals fit. Kicker Evan McPherson also breaks down what his offseason looks like and how he wants to get better in his third season. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis, Michael Niziolek and special guest Jimmy Watkins. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The future begins now in the Bengals' secondary. Rookies D.J. Turner and Jordan Battle got some light but valuable first-team reps in during organized team activities this week. Several other rookies, like Myles Murphy, showed their earliest flashes with other looks during the activies as well. Cincinnati's offense won't look too different in 2023 but it will change in the backfield as Chase Brown and Trayveon Williams got more reps alongside quarterback Joe Burrow. How different will things look in both the offensive and defensive backfield entering training camp? The Strictly Stripes Podcast looks at the biggest takeaways for the Bengals during their organized team acitvities this week as they look ahead to mandatory minicamp next week. Bengals cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt also joins the podcast for a special chat in the locker room. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zac Taylor has been in Cincinnati for almost half a decade now. Taylor enters his fifth season as the Bengals' head coach. After two dismal seasons with and without Joe Burrow, he's helped lead the Bengals to unprecedented heights, including a Super Bowl berth and back-to-back conference championship games. How much of that credit belongs to Taylor? Taylor not only has one of the best offenses in the NFL, but he's also got coaching continuity by his side. Is that enough to call him a Top 10 playcaller in the AFC, or let alone, the NFL? The Strictly Stripes crew ranks the ten best head coaches in the AFC and looks at where Taylor fits in the puzzle. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's no denying that Ja'Marr Chase is a Top 10 receiver in the NFL. The third-year Bengals receiver has already been named to two Pro Bowls and was an All-Pro selection his rookie year after being named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He's benefitted greatly from having Joe Burrow throwing him the ball dating back to their LSU days. Can Chase say he's the best receiver in the game? His former college teammate, Justin Jefferson, has been terrorizing the Minnesota Vikings' opponents. Cooper Kupp, Tyreek Hill, Stefon Diggs, Davante Adams and Mike EVans are some of many receivers who are still some of the best at their respective crafts. The Strictly Stripes crew gives their take on who the Top 10 receivers in the NFL are and where Chase fits in the puzzle. Bengals defensive end Joseph Ossai also joins the podcast for a 1-on-1 chat on his injury rehab progress this offseason. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are the Bengals heading in the right direction this offseason? The team is wrapping up offseason training with organized team activities and mandatory minicamp later this month. Rookies like Myles Murphy, Jordan Battle and Charlie Jones, along with free agent signees like Orlando Brown Jr. will show off their skills in those respective activities. Who will stand out? And who should stand out this offseason? The impact those aforementioned names will have is yet to be seen or know. But how much of a difference do those moves mean up to this point? Content creator and analyst Joe Goodberry joins the Strictly Stripes podcast crew as he breaks down what to expect from the Bengals in 2023 based on their latest moves. Bengals safety Nick Scott also talks about his introduction to Cincinnati in a 1-on-1 chat. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and special guest Joe Goodberry. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a good chance the Bengals will face DeAndre Hopkins next season. They were supposed to face him when they head to Arizona for a Week 5 matchup. But he was cut by the Cardinals last weekend, making him a hot commodity on the free agent market. Could they still face him anyway though? Hopkins would be an ideal fit for many of the Bengals' 2023 opponents, like the Browns, Chiefs, Ravens and Bills among others. His production and future potential are still big question marks for the 12th year receiver. Anything can happen though and the Bengals should take notice. The Strictly Stripes crew looks at the best fits for Hopkins and where that might impact the Bengals. Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill joins the podcast for a funny 1-on-1 conversation. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who's winning the arms race in the 'Battle of Ohio?' The Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns have both been busy this offseason. Cleveland focused its efforts on making big spending decisions in free agency while the Bengals attacked the NFL Draft from top to bottom. What separated the Browns from the Bengals were two respective trades they made for Elijah Moore and Za'Darius Smith. Does that still give the Browns a leg up on the Bengals? By adding Orlando Brown Jr, the Bengals' offensive line will remain as competitive, but, how competitive? As competitive as the Browns' premier offensive line? And can Deshaun Watson narrow the gap between himself and Joe Burrow? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at how who's been winning the offseason 'Battle of Ohio.' With Tyler Boyd returning to voluntary workouts in Cincinnati this offseason, the crew discusses what his future could look like with the Bengals. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Michael Niziolek and special guest Dan Labbe. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NFL's best offenses are taking shape this offseason. Most teams are working through their organized team activities and the Bengals will have theirs coming up in the first week of June. For the Bengals, these workouts are far from competitive, but they're setting the stage for training camp with the hope of being one of the best offenses in the NFL. The Bengals have the tools to play like a top five offense, but the question is how well they can materialize their resources into playing like one. Concerns surrounding the run game without Samaje Perine and the tight end position without Irv Smith Jr. have led several former coaches and critics, like former longtime NFL head coach Mike Martz, to question if the Bengals really are capable of playing like a top five offense. Are those concerns as valid as they seem? And are teams ranked ahead of the Bengals actually top five offenses? The Strictly Stripes crew examines Martz's claims and other claims that the Bengals aren't a top five offense and looks at how accurate they are or aren't. Rookie punter Brad Robbins joins the crew as a special guest. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes don't shy away from pressure. Both quarterbacks operated similarly when the pocket collapsed in 2022. Whether that came through scrambling, making acrobatic throws or operating with third down efficiency, they both showed why they're two of the league's best passers. Mahomes has more fourth-quarter comebacks and game winning drives than Burrow. However, Burrow had a game winning drive of his own when he met Mahomes in the playoffs for the first time ever. Does that mean that Burrow is the better quarterback in crunch time? Or does the reigning league MVP Mahomes have something to say about that. The Strictly Stripes crew engages in a "Who Dey-bate" like discussion to decide when and where they would rather have their Mahomes or Burrow. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Expect the Bengals to harp on improving the pass rush this offseason. They had the third-worst pass rush percentage (5.08%) in the NFL last year and had the fourth-fewest sacks (30). Seeing the writing on the wall, Myles Murphy was drafted in the first round to help fix that. Assuming D.J. Reader, Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard can all avoid injury time, and if Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt build on their success, there's good reason to think that they can have more than 30 sacks. How many more sacks though? More pressing questions surrounding how well the Bengals can defend the pass surround Nick Scott and Dax Hill. Will the safety duo replicate enough of the success that Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell left behind? What is the bare minimum of production they need to have a good year. The Strictly Stripes crew sets the benchmarks that the Bengals' defense should achieve in 2023. Hill also joins the podcast as a special guest. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bengals' offense has put up very similar numbers in each of the last two seasons. Quarterback Joe Burrow threw for nearly identical amounts of touchdowns, interceptions and passing yards in 2022 relative to 2021. His wide receiver core of Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd can say the same with their combined statistics between 2021 and 2022. With a new offensive line featuring Orlando Brown Jr, the "glass eaters" can eat more glass than ever. What will running back Joe Mixon do without Samaje Perine by his side? How well can he build off of his numbers from last year with the hope of possibly redeeming himself in 2023? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at how far the Bengals offense can take off in 2023 and what they're capable of doing with their new weapons. Second-year left guard Cordell Volson joins the podcast for a brief 1-on-1 chat. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bengals' voluntary workouts are currently focused on camaraderie, but that will change very soon. Once the team hits organized team activities and mandatory minicamp, the pressure will heat up leading up to training camp. That's going to be especially true for several players who aren't guaranteed to make the team before the 2023 season. Several players are on the bubble of getting cut, some have a toss-up chance of making the team while others will make the team with ease but could be at risk for getting cut in 2024. Multiple veterans will look to fight for spots on the 53-man roster in very bloated positional groups like offensive tackle and defensive end. The Strictly Stripes crew lists the players who are the most vulnerable for getting cut and how they can save their roles on the team ahead of and during training camp. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and Bills quarterback Josh Allen each put on a spectacle last season. Allen earned a runner-up vote for league MVP while Burrow made a strong case for the award and has primed himself to be a top candidate for the award next season. Burrow got the best of Allen in the playoffs last season but Allen was nursing a partially torn UCL in his throwing arm at the end of the year. Both passers have elite receivers and lead some of the best offenses in the NFL. What makes Burrow and Allen similar? Will one beat out the other next season in terms of stat categories, wins or other areas? Better yet, which quarterback has better odds to win MVP? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at a side-by-side comparison of the best stats between Burrow and Allen in 2022. Using those stats, they project where either quarterback will end up next season. The crew also catches up with rookie wide receiver Charlie Jones in a 1-on-1 chat. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and Andrew Gillis. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a reason why Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow goes by "Joe Cool." In the most high-pressure situations, Burrow still finds a way to keep himself and his team collected. The moment is never too big or too small for Burrow. Whether that's a game against a winless opponent or the Super Bowl, Burrow has mostly met expectations. The trickle effect is obvious as seen by his teammates' performances and the culture shift in Cincinnati. But how did Burrow become the face of the franchise and one of the league's faces? What goes through his head as he's locked in and focused on the prize at hand. University of Cincinnati leadership expert and professor Laurens Steed joins the Strictly Stripes Podcast to break down the many layers that makes Burrow an effective, skilled leader. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad and special guest Laurens Steed. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ja'Marr Chase is a very ambitious person. The Bengals wide receiver wants to set and break as many records as he can entering just his third season in the NFL. He's already a Top 10 receiver in Bengals history but now his goal is to firmly etch his way as a Top 5 receiver in team history. Most sportsbooks and oddsmaker haven't thought far enough to predict what Chase can do in 2023. Is it ever too early to predict what Chase is capable of though? Of course not. Two years of experience provides enough data to have insight as to how far Chase can go with quarterback Joe Burrow still by his side. Can he put up big numbers even with Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd by his side? The Strictly Stripes crew sets the line on what Chase is capable of producing next season. They predict whether Chase goes over/under the virtual lines. Rookie running back Chase Brown also joins the crew for a moving one-on-one chat. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We (almost) have a deal. The Bengals are continuing their ongoing contract negotiations with quarterback Joe Burrow. Burrow is actively involved in his negotiations and has a clear picture of what he's looking for in his extension. Part of that includes using Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase as a focal point for how his deal is set up. Does Burrow's deal mimic the one Jalen Hurts got last month? Sure, Burrow might not literally leave money on the table, but he might be willing to have a flexible enough deal that allows for Higgins, Chase and even Logan Wilson to get inked. The Strictly Stripes crew determines whether or not Burrow's approach will pay off for himself and the team in the long run. Long snapper Cal Adomitis joins the show for an exclusive one-on-one interview as he breaks down his offseason routine. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The picture is clear on how the Bengals' roster will shape out in the coming weeks and months. Rookies are fully settled into the confines of Paycor Stadium, the second phase of voluntary workouts are underway and organized team activities and mandatory minicamps are just about a month away. All of this means that the intensity and competition of the offseason is heating up. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase are connecting again in practice. Now they'll look to replicate that same rhythm and connection with everyone else on the roster, including new faces. How will new faces like Charlie Jones, Trevor Siemian and Chase Brown fare with the rest of the veterans? Will undrafted rookies like Jaxson Kirkland have a real shot at making the roster? The Strictly Stripes crew sets the stage for how the rest of the offseason will play out all the way into training camp as workouts intensify. They go through the entire roster and do a 53-man reset. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bengals' path to the Super Bowl doesn't get any easier. Part of the cost that comes with winning is facing tougher challenges through and through. Their schedule got harder than the prior season when the Bengals reached the Super Bowl. In a loaded AFC, things don't get any easier either. Part of the silver lining of such a grueling schedule is four prime-time games but the caveat is mostly playing teams that are strong Super Bowl contenders in those games. How much can the Bengals afford to start 0-2 like last year? Should the Bengals have their third-straight 5-4 start on the season, will they actually be able to overcome that type of start this time? The Strictly Stripes crew looks at all 17 of the Bengals' upcoming matchups in 2023 and assesses what makes their schedule easier -- or harder -- than last year's slate. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Quarterbacks are getting paid this offseason. Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson have each respectively helped reset the quarterback market this offseason with their new deals. Jackson is currently the league's highest paid player with his new deal that pays him $52 million per year on his five-year extension. That leaves big name stars like Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert waiting to get paid this offseason. Both players saw their respective fifth-year options get extended but are working toward long term deals. Will Burrow land a five-year deal like Hurts and Jackson? Or will he go for a longer deal just like Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes? The Strictly Stripes crew analyzes the numbers behind Jackson's deal and looks at where Burrow's extension might fit in relation to that. They also look at how players like Mahomes can shape Burrow's deal. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine a world where you could pick certain players from the AFC North to play for the Bengals. The only restriction is that you can't pick All-Pro and/or Pro Bowl players who have become household names. So that means, T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett, Nick Chubb and Mark Andrews among others are all off of the table. But what David Njoku? Kyle Hamilton? Alex Highsmith? Would they fit well with the Bengals? Although there's a good chance neither of those names would become a Bengal, it's not like players from other AFC North teams haven't landed with the Bengals. Current cornerback Mike Hilton is a former Steeler, Larry Ogunjobi spent a season in Cincinnati after a year in Cleveland and legendary Steelers linebacker James Harrison briefly played for the Bengals after coming from Pittsburgh and heading back there. The Strictly Stripes crew drafts the best non-Pro Bowl and All-Pro players in the AFC North who would have an underrated impact with the Bengals. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bengals' offense still has some unanswered question entering 2023. Joe Mixon is the presumptive running back for the Bengals but how will the offense look behind Mixon? Rookie Chase Brown will compete for the backup role behind Mixon but he has to fill Samaje Perine's big shoes. Irv Smith Jr. appears to be primed to be the lead tight end following Hayden Hurst's departure. He brings health concerns after suffering multiple injuries during his previous stint with the Vikings. Are the Bengals going to rely on him, Drew Sample and Devin Asiasi? Or will the Bengals look to add one more body in tight end room? The Strictly Stripes podcast crew discusses what people might be getting wrong about Cincinnati's offense. Is Joe Burrow really primed for an MVP season in 2023? Projecting Burrow's season, the crew looks at what's working with and against Burrow this offseason. This podcast features Mohammad Ahmad, Andrew Gillis and Michael Niziolek. Music: Starfields by Hallman Music Link: https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/nQ9ldbVF7D/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices