The Bengals need to take care of business against their lesser opponents, because they will be tested in 11 of 16 games.

Record Projection:
We never fell for the Bengal hype of recent years-- because the team had no defense to speak of. But those years are gone.

Now the Bengals have a solid defense through and through, which in itself makes Cincinnati a threat to win each Sunday.

Add in an offense that should be more balanced thanks to the additions of WR Owens, rookie TE Jermaine Gresham, and rookie WR Jordan Shipley, and the Bengals are legitimate contenders for Super Bowl XLV.

I would go as far to say that Carson Palmer must show restraint throughout the season because his arm strength isn't quite what it used to be, yet he will be tempted to throw the ball around with so many new targets. If he stays within himself (doesn't turn the ball over trying to force throws) then the Bengals should be very tough to beat.

Updates:
Revisit this prediction page for any potential upgrades or downgrades to the 2010 Cincinnati Bengals season forecast & outlook. This projection will be "frozen" before the '10 season officially kicks off... Once the regular season begins, you can track rolling standings projections here.

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