Cincinnati Bengals 2009 NFL Projection:
The Bengals get their starting QB back in 2009 as Carson Palmer returns from an injured elbow which sidelined him for the majority of last season. That's great news as Cincinnati surrendered 160 more points than they scored a season ago.

Unfortunately, Palmer losses the ferocious T.J. Houshmanzadeh (to be replaced by Laveranues Coles). And due to a name change, he'll never throw another TD to Chad Johnson...

Chris Henry showed up in preseason weeks one and two, but whether or not he keeps showing up all season remains to be seen.

Cincinnati's offensive line isn't the most experienced group in the league. First-round draft pick Andre Smith looks to start at left tackle, as the Bengals released Levi Jones. And likely starters Cook (at center) and Collins who replaces Stacy Andrews at right tackle have limited NFL experience.

In a division with 3 solid defensive lines, Cincinnati's line will have to come together quickly in order to keep Palmer from sustaining yet another injury. Furthermore, it will be interesting to see if Cedric Benson can continue to play at the level demonstrated last season given the competition.

On the other side of the ball, the Bengals defensive line doesn't compare to their division rivals, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, or even Cleveland. Although, the Bengals are decent looking at linebacker led by Dhani Jones. Keith Rivers returns from injury and Rey Maualuga was drafted in the second round... Can you say, "time to switch to the 3-4"?

Cincy's secondary led by Johnathan Joseph held their own considering their brutal schedule a season ago. And now add strong safety Roy Williams.

Schedule Analysis:
Cincinnati's 2009 schedule is no picnic thanks in part to suiting up against the Steelers and Ravens twice of course, including back to back contests weeks 9 & 10 as well as back to back trips to Minnesota and San Diego weeks 14 & 15.

We have our doubts about how a young offensive line will fair in the above 6 games versus such solid defenses. If the Bengals go winless in those 6 affairs, that unfortunately won't leave much room for a shot at the postseason.

Record Projection:
Though the Bengals get Palmer back, they don't appear strong enough on paper to contend against their division rivals... Perhaps the Bengals can improve upon last season's win total. And keep an eye on Chris Henry as a wildcard.

At this time we now forecast a record of (7-9) good for 3rd place in the AFc North... A slight upgrade from our opening preseason forecast.

Revisit this prediction page for any potential upgrades or downgrades to the 2009 Cincinnati Bengals season forecast & outlook. This projection will be "frozen" before the '09 season officially kicks off... Once the regular season begins, you can track rolling standings projections here.

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