The Cincinnati Bengals (1-3) don’t look like a team that’s two years removed from a Super Bowl appearance. Joe Burrow, who injured his calf during training camp, still seems to be dealing with the injury. The offensive line isn’t as good as it was a year ago and the defense is on the field the whole game. 

The Bengals are second to last in completion percentage (57.2%), passing yards (728), passing touchdowns (2) and first-down percentage (23.7%). To put these stats in perspective, the New York Giants also only have two passing touchdowns and five total touchdowns to Cincinnati's four total touchdowns. 

It’s not just the passing game that they’re with, it’s the running game as well. The Bengals are second to last in rushing yards (280), 24th in yards per carry (3.7) and rushing touchdowns (1). 

Now let's get to the defense. Cincinnati is tied for sixth most in passing touchdowns allowed (6), but they’re in the top half of the league in sacks for and interceptions for. They are second to last in rushing yards allowed (628), only in front of the Denver Broncos who got 70 points dropped on them. The Bengals’ defense is also third to last in yards per carry allowed (5.1). 

These poor stats against the run could be due to their offense's inability to score points and opposing teams running the clock out. Offense and defense are always linked together. A team that doesn’t turn the ball over and scores points, will force turnovers on defense as opposing offenses will be forced to push the ball down the field, which creates turnovers. 

Is this a Zac Taylor problem? Is this a Joe Burrow problem due to the injury? Is it an offensive line problem? What is it? Cincinnati has a must-win game on Sunday in week five, as they travel to Arizona to take on the Cardinals (1-3). The Cardinals have been a tough out for teams this season, as their only victory came at home against the Dallas Cowboys. Arizona has also played tough games with the Giants and the Washington Commanders. 

It won’t be easy, but if the Bengals fall to 1-4, will Zac Taylor be on the hot seat?