Cincinnati Bengals’ Preseason Strategy Shift

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zach Taylor has revamped the team’s preseason strategy, incorporating earlier game action for key players.

Taylor confirmed that starters, including quarterback Joe Burrow, will see some action in their preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles this Thursday. While he didn’t reveal the exact amount of playing time for the starters, he hinted at heavier usage in the second preseason game against the Washington commanders on August 18.

This marks a substantial shift in how the Bengals approach the preseason, aimed at avoiding a sluggish start in the regular season. Last year, they faced a tough beginning, and the hope is that a more active preseason will help prepare the team for the challenges of week one. Historically, keeping players sidelined in August minimized injury risk, but it might have also contributed to a slow start when the games began to count.

After finishing the 2022 season with a 2-3 start, they began this year at 1-3. Following a 1-4 start last season, the team is keen to hit their stride early, especially with a manageable schedule featuring the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars in the first two weeks.

If increasing preseason reps brings about the results Taylor and his staff are aiming for, it could enhance the fantasy outlook for their skill position players. Burrow’s fantasy managers might reap the rewards of a strong start, without needing to wait until weeks 4 or 5 to see him shine.

The same benefits could apply to running back Chase Brown, who narrowly missed the 1,000-yard mark last season. Currently ranked around 12th, he could easily rise into the top 10 with a strong performance at the beginning of the season, especially with the upcoming fantasy drafts on the horizon.