The Bengals OC Brad Bratkowski said he's trying to think of ways to get the No. 3 receiver more involved in the offense. "I can’t give you a reason why—the light went on," he said.
Pyro's Take:
There has only been positive news about Chris Henry from the Bengals camp. QB Carson Palmer also said Henry's changed "In every way a man can change." This is all good, except Henry has Lavernaues Coles and Chad Ochocinco ahead of him. But we still expect him to be in the top-40 WR in the league.
Bengals QB Carson Palmer has sung nothing but praise about the oft-troubled WR Henry, saying he's changed "in every way" and he even said Henry could have a "Randy Moss type career."
Pyro's Take:
Henry and Bengals fans should be delighted at this news. It appears as if Henry has finally gotten out of the handcuffs and onto the field. Palmer is a class act and while we don't quite agree with his assessment, we sure think Henry has great talent.
The NFL banned laptop and cell-phone usage (aka Twitter) during games, but that's not going to stop Chad Ochocinco, who said he will still tweet away during regular season games.
Pyro's Take:
Ochocinco said, "There’s a lot of things they (NFL) don’t want me to do. I do it anyway. When I say I’m going to do something, I’m going to do it." We don't know what the world would do without Ochocinco and his thoughts.
The Cincinnati Bengals QB declared himself fully healed from reconstructive surgery on his right elbow. "I feel great. I'm 100 percent healthy, throwing, lifting, running all that stuff."
Pyro's Take:
While we expected nothing less, it's still reassuring to hear this from the QB that only played in four games last season. Thus far in training camp, he's thrown the ball with great velocity while adding some zip. We like Palmer to put up impressive numbers this year.
Carson Palmer returned to practice Monday after sitting out Saturday and Sunday with flu-like symptoms.
Pyro's Take:
No biggie. He wasn't hurt or severely injured like we're used to hearing whenever Palmer doesn't show up. He's fine..
The second-year Bengals WR is fighting for the last spot on the depth chart and coach Marvin Lewis said he still "has a long way to go" just to be in uniform on game days.
Pyro's Take:
Obviously, this doesn't bode well for Simpson. The second round pick from '08 hasn't done much to impress. And with Ochoinco, Coles and Henry filling up spots 1-3 on the depth chart, even if Simpson does make the team, he won't see any real action.
According to Cincinnati Bengals' beat writer Carlos "Big C" Holmes, WR Chris Henry "will see a lot of action in the red zone as the team has demonstrated in camp."
Pyro's Take:
If you're looking for a high touchdown but low reception guy, Chris Henry is your man. With Andre Caldwell competing for the No. 3 WR spot, touchdowns might be the only way he'll score points on your team.
Cincinnati Bengals' QB Carson Palmer and WR Chad Ochocino started off a little slow during a mock game on Saturday, but hit their stride and found a groove as the game rolled along.
Pyro's Take:
As Ochocinco puts it, "It looked really good. When we went down the field and hit a couple pass plays it reminded me of ’05. It didn’t matter what the defense was doing, we were throwing the ball at will and doing what we wanted to do." It appears as if Palmer and Ochocinco are on the same page, and look for them to light up the field this season.
Cincinnati Bengals' QB Carson Palmer and WR Chad Ochocino started off a little slow during a mock game on Saturday, but hit their stride and found a groove as the game rolled along.
Pyro's Take:
As Ochocinco puts it, "It looked really good. When we went down the field and hit a couple pass plays it reminded me of ’05. It didn’t matter what the defense was doing, we were throwing the ball at will and doing what we wanted to do." It appears as if Palmer and Ochocinco are on the same page, and look for them to light up the field this season.
If there were any doubts about Cincinnati Bengals' QB Carson Palmer's health and playing ability, brother and backup QB Jordan Palmer would like to get rid of them. "His arm strength is better than ever. He's as accurate as he's ever been. He's in the best shape I've ever seen him in," Palmer said.
Pyro's Take:
After reading about his work during minicamp and thus far during training camp, he have no doubts that he will become a top fantasy QB again this year. He's ready to go.
According to Cincinnati Bengals beat writer Carlos "Big C" Holmes, free-agent acquisition Laveranues Coles is "more than an adequate replacement" for departed receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh.
Pyro's Take:
Coles said himself that there's a lot of pressure off him and "At this point, it’s just me being the guy on the other side of Chad [Ochocinco] trying to fit in and trying to find my spot." Coles was always the veteran in New York, but now in Cincy, he's learning from Ochocinco and will benefit from having Palmer as a QB. He should produce pretty decent numbers this year.
Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer was injured just before the end of the 1st quarter, a quarter which also saw the Bengals newly acquired Laveranues Coles come out of the game as well. Palmer was said to have a high ankle sprain while Coles was helped on the field by the team's training staff, but was able to walk off under his own power with an undisclosed injury.
Pyro's Take:
The good news is that Coles seems to be okay, but it would be a devastating blow to the Bengals if Palmer was to be out for any amount of time. There has been a tremendous amount of anticipation around Cinci and the rest of league as to how the Bengals will fare this year with a healthy Palmer running the show. Let's hope the world doesn't have to wait too long to see the revamped Bungals in action.
Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer was injured just before the end of the 1st quarter, with a mild ankle sprain.
Pyro's Take:
Palmer's injury appears to be a mild sprain that is not expected to keep him out of any action. That said, you can bet that Marv will be looking to keep his meal ticket's mileage low for the rest of the pre-season. Palmer is good to go this year if he can stay on the field.
ESPN's Bob Holtzman reports that Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer (ankle) will not play in the team's next preseason game. His is, however, listed as probable and is being monitored carefully during practice.
Pyro's Take:
It turns out that the high ankle sprain isn't as bad as the Bengals initially thought, but they don't want to make light of the injury either. Sprains like this can be tough to deal with and tend to linger longer than most injuries, so while Carson is considered day-to-day at the moment, the Bengals certainly don't want to rush back their franchise QB.
Cincinnati Bengals rookie RB Bernard Scott had a rough go of it last night as he rushed five times for just six yards with no receptions.
Pyro's Take:
The race to become the backup RB in Cinci just evened out a bit as Scott's competition, RB Brian Leonard, ended up with seven carries for 34 yards against the Patriots Thursday evening. Leonard is terrible, though. Kenny Watson being cut speaks more to Scott's impressive camp than it does to anything Leonard brings to the fold.
Cincinnati Bengals rookie RB Bernard Scott had a rough go of it last night as he rushed five times for just six yards with no receptions.
Pyro's Take:
The race to become the backup RB in Cinci just evened out a bit as Scott's competition, RB Brian Leonard, ended up with seven carries for 34 yards against the Patriots Thursday evening. With RB Kenny Watson being cut on August 10th, Leonard and the rookie Scott will share spot duty this year, and would most likely work as an RBBC in the event that Benson goes down.
Cincinnati Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco had himself an interesting second preseason game against the Patriots Thursday night. Chad caught three balls for 69 yards from J.T. O'Sullivan, but the fun didn't stop there. Cinci decided to let his superior athleticism shine last night as Ochocinco also kicked in an extra point and handled the kickoff duties to open the second half.
Pyro's Take:
We haven't caught wind of how much Ochenta y Cinco paid his coaches to let him take over the kicking chores Thursday night, but we're pretty sure you'll be seeing head coach Marvin Lewis driving a new car to practice tomorrow. "Esteban' Ochocinco" was already high on our draft sheet this year, but if he continues to nail extra points for the team as well, he just might challenge AP "Purple Jesus" for the top spot in our rankings.
Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer is still questionable to play against the St. Louis Rams this Thursday. Palmer has been dealing with a high ankle sprain that he sustained in the first preseason game and had this to say: ”I’m taking it one rehab session at a time, and we’ll see where we’re at,” Palmer said. “Every day, it’s improved. It’s gotten better and better every day and hopefully, it will continue to do that. Walking is fine. Running and moving and avoiding people is different. Right now, I can walk great.”
Pyro's Take:
Palmer is the cog that makes the Bengal machine run, so we believe the coaches almost have to baby the star QB in this situation. If Palmer gets himself hurt any worse and misses time because of it, you can say good-bye to the Cincinnati 2009 season. Assuming Palmer doesn't play and continues to rehab his ankle, you can feel comfortable keeping him as the 7th QB off your boards come draft day.
Cincinnati Bengals starting QB Carson Palmer has been ruled out of the Thursday night exhibition against the Rams, and may sit out the rest of the preseason. After spraining his ankle August 14th against the Saints, Palmer has missed a lot of practice time with the team, but is expected to be fully recovered in time for the Week 1 game against the Broncos.
Pyro's Take:
The Bengals would be smart to rest their star QB and make sure he's ready to go for the regular season. As was found out last year, the Bengals go as Carson goes, so to lose any time out of Palmer would be a huge blow to the offense's prospects. Since Palmer has been doing some light throwing on the side, we are apt to believe he will be fine come Week 1, so there's no need to bump him down your cheat sheet for now. He's still a good starting fantasy QB in any format.
Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer said that he wasn't sure whether he would practice this week or play in the Bengals final preseason game on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
Palmer has been steadily working his way back from the high ankle sprain he suffered in the first preseason game, and could probably play if he was needed. However, the Bengals would be smart to rest their star QB and save him for the regular season opener.
Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer was seen running plays with the starting offense Tuesday morning. The drills were only being run at half speed, but Palmer was said to look okay during them.
Pyro's Take:
This is a good sign that Palmer will be ready for Week 1. There's still a possibility that he plays in the final preseason game, but it would likely be for just a series or two.
Denver Broncos first-round draft pick RB Knowshon Moreno was back practicing with the team on Tuesday. Moreno, who was out recovering from the sprained MCL he suffered over two weeks ago, was wearing an orange "non-contact" jersey during drills.
Pyro's Take:
It's good to see the electric rookie back on the field, but there's still little to no chance he'll see action in Thursday's preseason finale. However, Knowshon should be ready to go for the season opener against the Bengals on September 13th, so have no fear drafting him as a low-end RB2 in your draft.
Cincinnati Bengals starting QB Carson Palmer will not play in Thursday's final preseason game in order to rest his sprained ankle and be ready for the season opener September 13th against the Broncos.
Pyro's Take:
Palmer also told people on Wednesday that his ankle was feeling the best it's felt since the injury. Although he could probably play Thursday if necessary, it's wise of the Bengals to sit him and wait for the regular season to get him going again.
Cincinnati Bengals starting QB Carson Palmer sat out Thursday night's preseason game as expected.
Pyro's Take:
Carson dressed and took part in warm-ups, but got back into his street clothes for the game. He's been practicing more and more lately, but resting him for the game was a good call by the coaches. Palmer will be ready for Week 1 against Denver.
Cincinnati Bengals starting QB Carson Palmer said in a press conference on Wednesday that he's 100 percent and ready to go. “Oh yeah, 100 percent. I practiced on Monday, did everything, felt great and felt great yesterday after that, and that was a good test. So I’m full-go all week,” said Palmer.
Pyro's Take:
If Carson can stay healthy all year, he's a top 8 quarterback who could bring back top 5 numbers with the talent he has at receiver. For now, you can feel safe in starting him weekly for your team again.
Bengals running back Brian Leonard (chest) went through a full practice on Friday and will play on Sunday against the Packers.
Pyro's Take:
Are you really looking at Brian Leonard's condition? Get your head checked and quit playing fantasy ya boner.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson said that he suffered a mild ankle sprain in the first quarter of Sunday's game against the Packers, but that he will be fine going forward.
Pyro's Take:
Benson looked just fine to us in the big win rushing for 141 yards on 29 carries. He seems to have really stepped up his game this year, and with the Cinci O-line giving him holes to work with, Benson has been and will continue to be a nice fantasy start for your team this year.
Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry finally admitted that the strained quadriceps he suffered in the middle of preseason has been bothering him ever since. "It's been killing me. I can't really open up," Henry said. "I never had an injury like this ... I don't want to miss any time."
Pyro's Take:
Henry seems to have gotten his life in order, but that doesn't mean he got any smarter. If you have an injury that hampers your ability to do what you do best in the NFL, you should tell the coaches and rest until it gets better instead of hurting the team just trying to play.
When Henry is healthy, we fully expect him to regain his fantasy sleeper status, but not until then.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson returned to practice today in a limited fashion after missing Wednesday's practice with an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
Benson should be just fine as the injury he suffered in Week 2 was merely a tweak of the ankle. Keep him in your fantasy lineup as a low-end RB2 as the Bengals play the tough Steelers D on Sunday.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson practiced in full on Friday and looks to be ready to go against the Steelers on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
He's healthy, but we still wouldn't start him this fantasy weekend against a tough Pittsburgh defense. Look elsewhere for your RB2 this Sunday.
Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry came back to practice on Friday and went through all the drills with the team. He looks to be ready to go on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Henry is still one of our big sleeper candidates, even though he's gotten off to a slow start this year. Keep him stashed on your fantasy bench until he starts stepping up in this high-powered offense.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (ankle) was limited in practice on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
Benson has missed practice time all season, yet is having a career year thus far. Maybe all he needed was to be treated like the diva he is to start rolling like this...
Benson has turned into a nice RB2 option for fantasy football teams this year, and looks to remain as such.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (ankle, probable) practiced in full pads again on Friday and is ready to go against the Browns this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
Cedric has been awesome so far this year, and his stats don't look to take a hit this Sunday against the skid-marks. Start him in all fantasy football formats this weekend and reap the rewards.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) is being listed as probable for the game Sunday against the Ravens, but he practiced without limitations on Friday and will get the start this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
Benson didn't do as well as expected last weekend against the Browns, and doesn't look to improve on his numbers against a defense like the Ravens. If you have another option for your fantasy football RB2 this week, we'd suggest using it.
Coach Marvin Lewis and the Bengals don't seem too concerned about quarterback Carson Palmer's sprained left thumb as it didn't look to affect his ability to throw the ball.
Pyro's Take:
Carson doesn't seem concerned either as he had no problem hooking up with Andre Caldwell for the game-winning touchdown with 22 seconds remaining on Sunday. Continue to use Palmer as a QB1 on your fantasy football team despite the injury.
Bengals running back Brian Leonard has been declared inactive today against the Steelers. Bernard Scott will get the carries that Leonard normally receives.
Pyro's Take:
Neither one is playable this week against the Steelers D, but if Benson were to get hurt, Scott could certainly have fantasy football value in the future.
Bengals running back Brian Leonard has been declared inactive today against the Steelers. Bernard Scott will get the carries that Leonard normally receives.
Pyro's Take:
Neither one is playable this week against the Steelers D, but if Benson were to get hurt, Scott could certainly have fantasy football value in the future.
Bengals running back Brian Leonard (groin) said on Monday that he should be good to go against the Bears in Week 7 after being inactive for last week's game. Bernard Scott will move back into his 3rd-string role.
Pyro's Take:
In the absence of Leonard, rookie RB Bernard Scott took over the backup duties but did not get a single touch in the game. Cedric Benson is being leaned on heavily, so both Leonard and Scott have minimal fantasy value, if any.
Bengals running back Brian Leonard (groin) said on Monday that he should be good to go against the Bears in Week 7 after being inactive for last week's game.
Pyro's Take:
In the absence of Leonard, rookie RB Bernard Scott took over the backup duties but did not get a single touch in the game. Cedric Benson is being leaned on heavily, so both Leonard and Scott have minimal fantasy value, if any.
Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco (hip) is being listed as probable on the team's injury report after missing practice on Friday.
Pyro's Take:
Chad won't miss this game after all the tweeting and texting he's done this week with the Bears. Start him on your fantasy football team unless we get some unexpected news concerning that hip in the next couple of days.
Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry (illness) was not dressed for practice on Friday and is listed as questionable on the team's injury report.
Pyro's Take:
This was the first practice Henry missed this week, so he might have just caught the flu bug going around. Sit the disappointing receiver on your fantasy football bench once again.
Bengals rookie running back Bernard Scott left the game against the Bears on Sunday with a knee injury, but says he'll be just fine after the team's Week 8 bye for the game against Baltimore.
Pyro's Take:
The Bengals haven't used the 6th-round selection much yet as Cedric Benson has done well in carrying the load thus far. Keep him on your fantasy football bench in case Benson wears down or gets injured later on.
Despite saying he would be fine for the Bengals Week 9 game against the Ravens, rookie backup running back Bernard Scott (knee) still was not practicing with the team on Monday, though he was doing rehab work on the side.
Pyro's Take:
The Bengals are going to need him at some point as they don't want to have Cedric Benson worn down for the playoffs. Scott should be fine, so keep him at the end of your fantasy football bench for now in case of a Benson injury.
Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry (quad) proclaimed himself “pretty much 100 percent” healthy after dealing with his quadriceps injury for most of the season.
Pyro's Take:
It looked like Henry was in line to have a breakout year, but that hasn't even come close to happening as he only has 11 catches so far on the season. We'll see this week if his injury was the problem, or if everyone simply over-estimated his abilities.
Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry left Sunday's game against the Ravens with what might be a fracture left forearm.
Pyro's Take:
If the arm is broken, it's likely Henry's season would be over. He was disappointing fantasy football owners who took a chance on him breaking out this year already, so his loss probably doesn't make much of a difference for your team.
The Cincinnati Bengals placed wide receiver Chris Henry on injured reserved today with two broken bones in his left forearm, thus ending his 2009 season.
Pyro's Take:
It's safe to drop him in all fantasy football leagues except for dynasty leagues. Henry will be a free agent and could have a lot of interest this off-season from teams looking for a starter.
Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco was handed a $20,000 fine by the NFL for attempting to "bribe" an official into swinging a call his way.
Pyro's Take:
So the sporting world has gotten sooo stiffly serious that you're not just not allowed to be funny anymore, you actually get fined close to a normal man's yearly salary for it!!!
I'm sorry, but for as nutty as Ocho has gotten, he's freakin' hilarious, and everybody in the world knows there was no way in hell he could have been serious in "bribing" that official... WITH A ONE DOLLAR BILL!!! Come on NFL, loosen up just a little, will ya?
Bengals running back Cedric Benson has been declared active and will start the game against the Steelers today.
Pyro's Take:
There really wasn't any doubt that Ceddy would play. Benson had 76 yards and a tuddie against the Steel-crew the first time around, but this one's in Pittsburgh, so he might have a rough go of it against the NFL's No. 1 rush D. Start him for sure, but don't expect a monster day by any means.
According to FOX Sports' Jay Glazer, the Cincinnati Bengals have decided to sign former Chiefs running back Larry Johnson and will make some sort of announcement on Tuesday.
Pyro's Take:
Wait, really? The Bengals are going to sign one of the most hated, trouble-making pieces of shit the NFL has seen in the last decade? No way!
It's also been said that coach Marvin Lewis informed LJ that he would be no more than an "insurance policy" that he couldn't foresee Johnson being active on game days unless something happened to one of the team's top three RBs down the road.
Basically, he shouldn't be added to your fantasy football team just yet.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson left last week's game against the Steelers in the second quarter with a strained hip flexor. Both he and coach Marvin Smith believe that Benson could be a game-time decision come Sunday against the Raiders.
Pyro's Take:
Benson has an opportunity for a monster game against an Oakland rush D that has given up the most rushing TDs on the year with 14 and fourth most yards/game in the NFL at 155.6. Check back throughout the week to see if you can get this fantasy football stud in your lineup next weekend.
Though no official word has been given yet, sources close to the team say that a one-year contract is signed and that running back Larry Johnson is now a member of the Cincinnati Bengals.
Pyro's Take:
Wow, the Bengals really don't have a care in the world for character, do they? Larry is set to make the pro-rated minimum for this year and will sit as the fourth-string RB behind Cedric Benson, Bernard Scott, and Brian Leonard. Unless Benson goes out to injury for an extended period of time, don't expect to see this piece of shit "insurance policy" garner a single carry the rest of the season. He is not fantasy football worthy.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) said on Tuesday that he's not quite sure if he'll play this weekend against the Raiders or not, but will definitely be back for the Browns game in Week 12.
“It’s not a major thing,” Benson said. “It may take one week to get ready, but not two. Hopefully I’ll be ready this Sunday. I need to focus on it and let it get healed so I can hit the ground full speed.”
Pyro's Take:
When asked about the Larry Johnson signing, Benson said, “I don’t see it as any type of threat. It’s great to have the guy come in. It’s only going to make me work harder. Even harder than I normally do. I’m all for it."
Another Benson quote: “Once the hip is ready, I’m gone. I’m running all the way to Miami and the Super Bowl.”
Maybe so, maybe not, but if he keeps up his current pace, he could run your fantasy football team to your league Super Bowl.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) sat out practice on Wednesday as he tries to recover from a hip pointer in time to play on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Benson has already admitted that he might not make the game this weekend, and that next week's game is more likely when he'll return. Check back with us just to make sure before sitting him on your fantasy football bench in Week 11.
Bengals OC Bob Bratkowski admitted on Wednesday that the team rode running back Cedric Benson a little too much over the first half of the year, and that upon his return, fellow RBs Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard will receive more carries going forward.
"It's obvious the wear and tear had a little effect on him (Benson), so we will spell him with Brian and Bernard," said Bratkowski.
Pyro's Take:
Before leaving the game last week against the Steelers, Benson was on pace for 396 carries this season. He's never gone over 214 carries in his career, so it's no surprise he got injured. Benson may not be the fantasy football juggernaut he has been over the rest of the 2009 campaign as Scott and Leonard eat into his production.
Bengals OC Bob Bratkowski admitted on Wednesday that the team rode running back Cedric Benson a little too much over the first half of the year, and that upon his return, fellow RBs Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard will receive more carries going forward.
"It's obvious the wear and tear had a little effect on him (Benson), so we will spell him with Brian and Bernard," said Bratkowski.
Pyro's Take:
Before leaving the game last week against the Steelers, Benson was on pace for 396 carries this season. He's never gone over 214 carries in his career, so it's no surprise he got injured. Benson may not be the fantasy football juggernaut he has been over the rest of the 2009 campaign as Scott and Leonard eat into his production.
Bengals OC Bob Bratkowski admitted on Wednesday that the team rode running back Cedric Benson a little too much over the first half of the year, and that upon his return, fellow RBs Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard will receive more carries going forward.
"It's obvious the wear and tear had a little effect on him (Benson), so we will spell him with Brian and Bernard," said Bratkowski.
Pyro's Take:
Before leaving the game last week against the Steelers, Benson was on pace for 396 carries this season. He's never gone over 214 carries in his career, so it's no surprise he got injured. Benson may not be the fantasy football juggernaut he has been over the rest of the 2009 campaign as Scott and Leonard eat into his production.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) sat out practice once again on Thursday and now looks like a long-shot to play this weekend against the Raiders.
Pyro's Take:
Benson was expected to miss a week of action at least, so this is no shock to us. Check back before game-time to make sure he isn't going, and if he sits, Bernard Scott will get the start and is a nice fantasy football option against a weak Raiders rush D.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) missed a third straight practice on Friday and is listed as doubtful on the team's injury report. Benson insists he is still a game-time decision.
Pyro's Take:
Don't expect the Bengals to give in on this one as they should be able to win this game against the Raiders without him. Check back Sunday morning for sure, but for now, sit CedBen on your fantasy football bench.
Bengals wide receiver Laveranues Coles (head) is being listed as probable for the game on Sunday against the Raiders.
Pyro's Take:
Coles should play, but isn't a recommended start for your fantasy football team.
Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said on Wednesday that running back Cedric Benson (hip) will be "very limited" in practice this week, but also went on to say that Benson "might play" on Sunday against the Browns.
Pyro's Take:
There's no need to get CedBen back in the lineup for a game like this, so we don't expect the team to activate him until Week 13. However, you never know what the Bengals might do, so check back with us throughout the week as Benson would be a dominant RB1 for your fantasy football team this week if he plays.
Bengals rookie running back Bernard Scott is expected to get a lot of carries against Cleveland this weekend regardless of whether Cedric Benson plays or not.
Pyro's Take:
Scott looked good last weekend, albeit against a crappy Oakland rush D. If Benson can't go, Scott would be a great RB2 for your fantasy football team as the Browns don't seem able to stop the rush at all. If Benson goes, Scott could still be used at the flex position.
Bengals wide receiver Laveranues Coles was on the sideline at practice today with an injured chest.
Pyro's Take:
We haven't heard anything else about the injury, but will update you as soon as the team lets out the word. Coles hasn't been more than a flex for your fantasy football team this season, but could end up having a nice game this weekend against the lowly Browns.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) was not practicing with the team today as expected.
Pyro's Take:
He supposedly did do some work on the side, though, and is going to try to get back into practice later this week. We still believe the team will hold him out one more game, but check back with us because if he plays, he's a big-time RB1 on your fantasy football team this week.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) missed practice yet again on Thursday and is looking like he'll be a game-time decision on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
We'll give Benson about a 5 percent chance of playing against the weak-ass Browns this Sunday, but check back with us just to make sure because he'd be a must-start on your fantasy football team this week if he plays... even with limited carries.
Bengals wide receiver Laveranues Coles (chest) missed practice again on Thursday and his status for Sunday's game is unknown at this point.
Pyro's Take:
Coles has been barely playable at the WR3 position on your fantasy football team this year, but could be used this week against the Browns if he ends up active.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) went through a limited practice on Friday, and according to those surrounding the team, the indications are that he could possibly be in the lineup this Sunday.
“I think Ced is in a good spot right now and we’ll make that decision on Sunday,” coach Marvin Lewis said.
Pyro's Take:
This good news is that the game is early, so fantasy footballers will know what to do before the games start. The bad news is that if Benson IS active, it makes for a tough decision on whether to start him or not as he would likely only see split action with Bernard Scott against a team they should beat handily on Sunday.
We'll keep you updated as the info comes in.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) went through a limited practice on Friday, and according to those surrounding the team, the indications are that he could possibly be in the lineup this Sunday.
“I think Ced is in a good spot right now and we’ll make that decision on Sunday,” coach Marvin Lewis said.
Pyro's Take:
This good news is that the game is early, so fantasy footballers will know what to do before the games start. The bad news is that if Benson IS active, it makes for a tough decision on whether to start him or not as he would likely only see split action with Bernard Scott against a team they should beat handily on Sunday.
We'll keep you updated as the info comes in.
Bengals wide receiver Laveranues Coles (chest) was limited in practice today and is being listed as questionable for the game against the Browns this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
Coles could be a decent WR3 or flex option this week against the lowly Browns, so check the newsbreakers here to see if you can get him into your fantasy football lineup on Sunday.
According to Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network, Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) will be playing against the Browns today after missing the Week 11 loss to Oakland.
Pyro's Take:
This is, of course, just the word of a reporter, so nothing is for sure yet. However, we have no reason to doubt La Canfora, so it looks like Benson will be playing Sunday. How much he plays is the question.
Check back with us until noon to get the official scoop on CedBen, but for now, it looks safe to get him in your fantasy football lineup.
It turns out that Bengals running back Cedric Benson will wait one more week before testing out his hip in live action as the team declared him inactive for the game against the Browns today.
Pyro's Take:
The Bengals have no reason to push Benson back into action in such a win-able game. Make sure he's out of your fantasy football lineup today, and if you happen to have his backup, Bernard Scott, get his ass in there against this porous Browns defense.
It turns out that Bengals running back Cedric Benson will wait one more week before testing out his hip in live action as the team declared him inactive for the game against the Browns today.
Pyro's Take:
The Bengals have no reason to push Benson back into action in such a win-able game. Make sure he's out of your fantasy football lineup today, and if you happen to have his backup, Bernard Scott, get his ass in there against this porous Browns defense.
Bengals coach Marvin Lewis stated in his press conference today that running back Cedric Benson (hip) will be back in the starting lineup for next week's game against the Lions.
Pyro's Take:
He also went on to say that it's possible all four RBs, Benson, Bernard Scott, Brian Leonard, and Larry Johnson, will be active for the game. Benson is clearly the number one guy though and still a RB1 for your fantasy football team.
Bengals running back Bernard Scott (turf toe) was on crutches and in a walking boot on Monday.
Pyro's Take:
Scott still seems to think he'll be okay, so the crutches and boot might just be cautionary. However, with Cedric Benson expected back this week, the coaches might not rush him back into action, especially with Larry Johnson working so well last week after Scott left the game.
Scott's injury won't affect your fantasy football team unless Benson doesn't make it back this week.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee, shoulder) went through practice on Tuesday and looks likely to start this Sunday against the Bengals.
Pyro's Take:
Staff was a surprise starter for Detroit on Thanksgiving, and even more of a surprise to come out of the game healthy enough to practice today. However, should he start as expected this Sunday, the Bengals pass rush will likely eat him alive making him a no-go for your fantasy football team this week.
Bengals rookie running back Bernard Scott (turf toe) was still using crutches and wearing a walking boot on Wednesday. The Bengals twitter account also says that the backup RB "does not look good for Sunday".
Pyro's Take:
With Cedric Benson likely to return, Scott's fantasy football value would have taken a large hit anyway, so make sure he's on your bench this week.
Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (hand, knee) practiced again on Wednesday and looks good to go for Sunday's game against the Bengals.
Pyro's Take:
Again, Megatron has a tough match-up against those Cinci corners, but you have to play him on your fantasy football team no matter what.
According to a source familiar with the situation, Browns running back Jamal Lewis suffered what is being called a "serious concussion" against the Bengals last week and will be seeing a specialist on Wednesday to discuss his options.
Pyro's Take:
The source also said that Lewis was really shaken up by the results of the MRI that showed "abnormalities" of his brain.
After saying earlier in the year that this would be his last season, expect Jamal to request to be put on injured reserve and for him to end his career now instead of after the season.
Because of this news, if you for some reason had him on your fantasy football team, you can safely drop him now.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) returned to a full participation practice on Wednesday and is expected to start against the Lions this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
It's not a sure thing just yet, as we'll see how he feels coming out of these full practices this week, but it looks like CedBen is ready to go. If he plays, he'll be a great RB1 for your fantasy football team going up against the lame-duck Lions on Sunday.
Bengals wide receiver Laveranues Coles (chest) was limited in practice Wednesday though is expected to play this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
With the Bengals concentrating on the run-game so much this year, Coles is barely a flex play on your fantasy football team... even against the Lions.
Bengals running back Bernard Scott (turf toe) was still in a walking boot and limping around on Thursday, though he has gotten rid of the crutches he was using prior to today.
Pyro's Take:
We highly doubt Bernard will suit up for Sunday's easily winnable game against the Lions, but he probably shouldn't have been played on your fantasy football team regardless with Cedric Benson back from injury.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) went through another full practice on Thursday and looks ready to start on Sunday against the Detroit Lions.
Pyro's Take:
Benson will get the bulk of the load on Sunday, unless the Bengals blow this game out early. Start him on your fantasy football team this weekend and be happy your RB1 is back.
Bengals wide receiver Laveranues Coles (chest) was limited at practice again on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
Coles will likely be playing, but is still just a low-end WR3 or flex on your fantasy football team this weekend.
Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee, hand) practiced in full again on Thursday and looks set to start against the Bengals this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
Megatron has a tough match-up against a good Cinci pass D this week, but that shouldn't stop you from playing him as a WR2 with major upside on your fantasy football team.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee, shoulder) went through a full practice again on Thursday and looks to be set to make his normal start against the Cincinnati Bengals this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
Staff has been one gutsy son of a gun this year, which the Lions faithful must be taking notice of. He's had a couple of good fantasy games so far this year, but this isn't going to be another one. Sit him on your fantasy football bench if you can.
After missing practice for a third straight day, the Bengals have decided that running back Bernard Scott (turf toe) will not be active for the game against the Lions on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Turf toe is a painful injury, so we understand Scott sitting this one out. Looks like it will be a whole lot of Cedric Benson on Sunday, so make sure you get him in your fantasy football lineup.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) practiced all week and though he is being listed as probable on the injury report, he is fully expected to start on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Cedric looks to be good to go and has a great match-up to return to against the woeful Lions. Make sure he's in your fantasy football lineup before kickoff on Sunday.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee, shoulder) and wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee, hand) both practiced in full again on Friday and are expected to start against the Bengals in Week 13.
Pyro's Take:
It's good to see that these two are healthy, because they'll need to be with the Bengals tough defense running after them all day on Sunday. Megatron is worth a start on your fantasy football team, as always, but Stafford should be on your bench this week.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee, shoulder) and wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee, hand) both practiced in full again on Friday and are expected to start against the Bengals in Week 13.
Pyro's Take:
It's good to see that these two are healthy, because they'll need to be with the Bengals tough defense running after them all day on Sunday. Megatron is worth a start on your fantasy football team, as always, but Stafford should be on your bench this week.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson (hip) is active and will make his normal start against the Lions today.
Pyro's Take:
Benson is a clear RB1 on your fantasy football team today going up against an awful Lions defense. Get him back in your lineup.
Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee, hand) is active and starting as usual against the Bengals today.
Pyro's Take:
Stafford is playing as well, but don't expect more than WR2 numbers out of Megatron for your fantasy football team today as the Bengals have a pretty tough pass D.
According to coach Marvin Lewis, Bengals running back Bernard Scott (turf toe) is highly unlikely to suit up for the Week 14 match-up against the Vikings.
Pyro's Take:
The Bengals should be just fine without the rookie, but they are a little better with him returning kicks. We'll let you know as the week moves forward, but Scott shouldn't be starting on your fantasy football team anyway.
Vikings rookie wide receiver Percy Harvin sat out practice on Wednesday with an undisclosed illness.
Pyro's Take:
He'll be playing on Sunday, but probably shouldn't be used as more than a deep WR3 or flex on your fantasy football team going up against a tough Bengals D.
Vikings tight end Visanthe Shiancoe (ribs) was limited in practice yesterday but is in no danger of missing the game against the Bengals on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Shiancoe has basically become a must-start on your fantasy football team unless you own one of the big-4 as well.
Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (ankle) returned to a full practice on Thursday and will play this weekend against the Bengals.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody really thought he would miss the game, but now it is again 100 percent safe to get him in your fantasy football lineup.
Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin missed today's and yesterday's practices with migrane headaches.
Pyro's Take:
Harvin deals with these headaches from time to time, but he should be fine to play against the Bengals on Sunday. He can be used as either a WR3 or flex on your fantasy team this weekend.
Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin (migraine) sat out a third straight day of practice on Friday and is questionable to miss the game against the Bengals this weekend. Coach Brad Childress also said that Harvin's headaches have prevented him from learning the game plan this week.
Pyro's Take:
It's not looking good for the multi-talented rookie receiver, but we wouldn't doubt it if Childress let him play anyway if he can. Check back with us Sunday morning as Harvin could be used as a possible WR3 or flex on your fantasy football team for Week 14.
Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco was limited in practice on Friday due to a knee injury and is now being listed as probable on the team's Week 14 injury report.
Pyro's Take:
Ochenta y Cinco is more than likely to play against the Vikings this weekend and can be used as a WR2 with upside on your fantasy football team this Sunday. You might want to check back just to make sure he's playing however.
Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin (migraine) is inactive for the game against the Bengals today.
Pyro's Take:
This was an iffy call all week, so it shouldn't be too much of a shock for you. If you kept him in your lineup, make sure you get him out of there now.
Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry died in a Charlotte hospital Thursday morning, on day after suffering serious injuries when he fell out of the back of his pickup truck in what authorities described as a domestic dispute with his fiancee. Henry was 26 years old.
Pyro's Take:
The NFL has experienced a number of horrific events over it's existence, but none of them compares to when a player loses his life. Chris Henry may have been a troubled soul early on in his career, but he turned his life around as of late, and was even said to have been planning his wedding in the days leading up to his death.
Our condolences go out to Chris Henry's family and all those involved in his life.
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis was named the 2009 NFL Coach of the Year by the Associated Press on Saturday. Lewis earned 20.5 votes out of 50, while the Saints Sean Payton garnered 11.5 and the Chargers Norv Turner took 9 votes.
Pyro's Take:
There were a bunch of good candidates this year, from the aforementioned Lewis, Payton, and Turner, to the Colts Jim Caldwell, Eagles Andy Reid, Cardinals Ken Whisenhunt, and Jets Rex Ryan. With all the tragedy that could have crippled his team, not to mention the injuries and scheme adjustments the team went through, Marvin Lewis was still able to lead the Bengals to an AFC North title and the playoffs with a record of 10-6. This was a very much deserved and earned award by Coach Lewis.
Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker won't be making the trip to the Pro Bowl this year due to the torn ACL and MCL in his left knee. Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco will replace him on the AFC roster.
Pyro's Take:
The nutty wideout had a great first half of the season, but tailed off in the second half as Carson Palmer lost his mojo. He's deserving of a spot on the team, but a few other guys could have just as easily gone as well.
Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker won't be making the trip to the Pro Bowl this year due to the torn ACL and MCL in his left knee. Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco will replace him on the AFC roster.
Pyro's Take:
The nutty wideout had a great first half of the season, but tailed off in the second half as Carson Palmer lost his mojo. He's deserving of a spot on the team, but a few other guys could have just as easily gone as well.
The Cincinnati Bengals signed former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Matt Jones to a one-year deal worth approximately $700,000.
Pyro's Take:
Considering Jones came so cheap, this is basically a no-risk/high-reward signing for the Bengals. With the unfortunate death of Chris Henry, and with Laveranues Coles likely on the way out, Cinci needed something to happen with their receiving corps this off-season. The signing alos leaves the Bengals with no interest in bringing in Dante Stallworth, though they'll still probably draft a receiver in the first 4-5 rounds.
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