In the latest episode of WLWT’s “Five on 5,” longtime Bengals analyst Charlie Clifford teamed up with The Athletic reporter Paul Dehner Jr. to dissect Cincinnati’s impressive Week 2 win over the Houston Texans and to preview the team’s upcoming matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Week 2: Texans whomped
Clifford opened the conversation by praising the Bengals’ dominant performance on the road. He highlighted how the offense protected quarterback Joe Burrow, noting that the offensive line gave him ample time to make decisive throws. “We saw a clean, efficient game plan executed to the tee,” Clifford said. Dehner added that the Texans’ defense struggled to generate pressure, allowing Burrow to stay upright and make key throws downfield.
The duo also discussed the statistical edge the Bengals enjoyed. Cincinnati outgained Houston in total yards and held a clear advantage in third‑down conversions. Both analysts agreed that the win was a testament to the team’s preparation and the coaching staff’s ability to adjust after a tough opening loss.
Protecting Burrow
Protecting Burrow remained a central theme. Clifford emphasized that the offensive line’s performance was a major factor in the victory, especially against a Texans front seven that had been effective earlier in the season. Dehner pointed out that the Bengals’ running game also contributed, with rookie running back Samaje Perine adding crucial yards and keeping the defense honest.
Both guests praised the coaching staff for keeping the game plan simple yet effective, allowing Burrow to focus on his strengths without overcomplicating the play‑calling. “When you protect your quarterback, you give him the freedom to lead the offense,” Clifford noted.
Physics takes an ‘L’
Clifford and Dehner joked about the occasional misstep in the passing game, referring to a few incomplete throws as “physics taking an ‘L.'” They agreed that those moments were minor compared to the overall execution and that the team showed resilience by quickly regaining momentum after each setback.
AFC unbeatens and the Steelers preview
Looking ahead to Week 3, the analysts turned their attention to the Steelers, a fellow AFC North rival that remains unbeaten in the division. Clifford highlighted the Steelers’ strong defensive front and the need for the Bengals to continue protecting Burrow against a potentially aggressive pass rush.
Dehner offered a tactical preview, suggesting that Cincinnati should emphasize its balanced attack—mixing short, high‑percentage passes with occasional deep shots to keep Pittsburgh’s defense off balance. He also noted the importance of special teams, especially field‑position battles that could swing momentum.
Both guests expressed confidence that the Bengals can maintain their winning streak if they stay disciplined, keep the ball away from turnovers, and continue to execute the game plan that worked so well against Houston.
Weekly podcast schedule
Listeners are reminded that a new “Five on 5” episode airs every Tuesday throughout the Bengals’ season, offering in‑depth analysis, player interviews, and previews of upcoming games. Fans can tune in via WLWT’s website, local radio, or their preferred podcast platform.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
