2011 Cincinnati Bengals season

NFL team season December 2013 March 2026 Cincinnati Bengals 2011 9–7 3rd AFC North Marvin Lewis Jay Gruden Mike Zimmer Mike Brown Paul Brown Stadium Lost Wild Card Playoffs(at Texans) 10–31 Cincinnati Bengals Uniforms 2004-2011.png 4 DT Geno Atkins QB Andy Dalton WR A. J. Green TE Jermaine Gresham DT Geno Atkins Bengals seasons The 2011 season was the Cincinnati Bengals' 42nd in the National Football League (NFL) and their 44th overall. They entered the season coming off a 4–12 record in 2010. Head Coach Marvin Lewis was re-signed by the team. Quarterback Carson Palmer demanded a trade and was dealt to the Oakland Raiders. Wide receiver Chad Johnson was traded to the New England Patriots. Replacing the two, the organization drafted quarterback Andy Dalton and wide receiver A. J. Green in the 2011 NFL draft, who proceeded to make the Pro Bowl in their rookie seasons. The start of the 2011 season was hindered by a lockout, which cancelled the teams' mini-camp. After going 1–3 in pre-season, the Bengals started their season off with a win against division rival Cleveland Browns, en route to a 9–7 record—their best outing since 2009. The franchise received a Wild Card spot in the 2011–12 NFL playoffs where it lost in the opening round to the Houston Texans. This would be paralleled the next year with another loss to Houston. 2011 marked Cincinnati's first of five consecutive playoff appearances through 2015. Four players—Dalton, Green, defensive lineman Geno Atkins, and tight end Jermaine Gresham—were elected to the 2012 Pro Bowl; Atkins was also selected to the Associated Press' 2011 All-Pro Team. 2 Offseason Signings Pos. Player 2010 Team Contract LB Thomas Howard Oakland Raiders 2 years, $6.5 million RB Cedric Benson Cincinnati Bengals 1 year, $4.5 million QB Bruce Gradkowski Oakland Raiders 2 years, $4 million RB Brian Leonard Cincinnati Bengals 2 years, $2 million S Gibril Wilson Cincinnati Bengals 1 year G Nate Livings Cincinnati Bengals 1 year Departures Pos. Player 2011 Team DEAntwan Odom WR Chad Ochocinco PatriotsLBDhani Jones G Evan Mathis Philadelphia EaglesTEGarrett MillsNew England PatriotsOTKirk ChambersDetroit Lions CB Johnathan Joseph Houston TexansSSChinedum NdukweOakland Raiders S Roy Williams retireDTTank Johnson WR Terrell Owens The Bengals finished their 2010 season with 4–12 record, their worst outing since 2002.https://web.archive.org/web/20110604173000/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/cin/ June 4, 2011 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/cin/ Cincinnati Bengals Team Encyclopedia Pro-Football-Reference.com Sports Reference December 3, 2012 In January 2011, the Bengals organization re-signed coach Marvin Lewis for another two years.Smith Michael Michael David Smith January 4, 2011 http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/01/04/marvin-lewis-signs-deal-to-return-to-bengals/ Marvin Lewis Signed Deal to Return to Bengals Profootballtalk.com NBC Sports December 3, 2012 Wide receivers Chad Johnson's and Terrell Owens's contracts expired, and the team did not re-sign them.Preuth Ian December 30, 2010 https://www.webcitation.org/6Chfw5rxd?url=http://www.wcpo.com/dpp/sports/football/bengals/season-over-for-ochocinco,-could-his-tenure-in-cincinnati-be-next December 6, 2012 http://www.wcpo.com/dpp/sports/football/bengals/season-over-for-ochocinco,-could-his-tenure-in-cincinnati-be-next%3F Season over for Ochocinco, could his tenure in Cincinnati be next? Cincinnati, Ohio WCPO-TV American Broadcasting Company December 3, 2012 dead mdy-all https://www.espn.com/nfl/trainingcamp12/story/_/id/8240307/source-terrell-owens-impressive-seattle-seahawks-tryout https://web.archive.org/web/20121108233056/http://espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp12/story/_/id/8240307/source-terrell-owens-impressive-seattle-seahawks-tryout November 8, 2012 Terrell Owens joins Seahawks ESPN Associated Press August 7, 2012 December 6, 2012 live mdy Also, veteran quarterback Carson Palmer wanted to leave the Bengals via trade; he claimed if he could not be traded, he would retire.McLuskey Dex March 2, 2011 https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-03-02/carson-palmer-says-he-won-t-return-for-cincinnati-bengals-wcpo-tv-says.html https://web.archive.org/web/20131106041548/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-03-02/carson-palmer-says-he-won-t-return-for-cincinnati-bengals-wcpo-tv-says.html November 6, 2013 Carson Palmer Says He'd Rather Retire Than Return to Bengals, WCPO TV Says Bloomberg LP December 3, 2012 live mdy The Bengals organization decided to trade Palmer to the Oakland Raiders for a first-round draft pick in 2012 and a conditional draft pick in 2013 that is a second-rounder unless the Raiders win a playoff game, when it would become a first-rounder.Battista Judy Judy Battista October 18, 2011 https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/19/sports/football/raiders-acquire-carson-palmer-from-bengals-trade-deadline.html?_r=0 https://web.archive.org/web/20130519213452/http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/19/sports/football/raiders-acquire-carson-palmer-from-bengals-trade-deadline.html?_r=0 May 19, 2013 Disgruntled Palmer Is Traded at Deadline The New York Times December 3, 2012 live mdy Also The Bengals fired Offensive Coordinator Bob Bratkowski and replaced him with Jay Gruden Lockout 2011 NFL Lockout Following the end of 2010 season, the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the owners of all 32 NFL teams and the players was set to expire on March 3, 2011.Mortensen Chris Chris Mortensen Schefter Adam Adam Schefter February 28, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120421055431/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=6161468 April 21, 2012 https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=6161468 Sources: NFLPA Plans to Decertify March 3 ESPN December 1, 2012 live mdy The two parties, however, decided to extend the CBA one more week in order to create a new CBA.Trotter Jim March 4, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110411132213/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/jim_trotter/03/04/NFL.labor/index.html April 11, 2011 http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/jim_trotter/03/04/NFL.labor/index.html NFL, NFLPA Agree to Seven-Day Extension in Labor Negotiations Sports Illustrated Time Inc December 1, 2012 A new CBA was not reached, and the owners locked out the players from team facilities and shut down league operations.Davis Nate March 12, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20111221203013/http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2011/03/collective-bargaining-agreement-expires-nfl-locks-out-players/1 December 21, 2011 http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2011/03/collective-bargaining-agreement-expires-nfl-locks-out-players/1#.ULp1v4Zv3sE Collective Bargaining Agreement Expires; NFL Locks Out Players USA Today December 1, 2012 live mdy The major issues disputed were the salary cap, players' safety and health benefits, revenue sharing and television contracts, transparency of financial information, rookie salaries, season length, and free agency guidelines.Silver Michael Michael Silver (sportswriter) July 19, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20111105152646/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-silver_seven_hurdles_cba_close071911 November 5, 2011 https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=Ap_2IfkUfkGpJXPQ8B57HwFDubYF?slug=ms-silver_seven_hurdles_cba_close071911 Seven Key Issues Linger for NFL's New CBA Yahoo! Sports Yahoo! December 1, 2012 live mdy A new CBA could not be reached in time, and the annual Hall of Fame Game was cancelled.Biggs Brad McClure Vaughn July 22, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20121026135234/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2011-07-22/sports/ct-spt-0722-olivet-bears-chicago--20110722_1_bears-and-rams-training-camp-free-agents October 26, 2012 https://www.chicagotribune.com/2011/07/22/hall-of-fame-game-canceled-as-players-mull-deal/ Hall of Fame Game Canceled as Players Mull Deal Chicago Tribune Tribune Company December 1, 2012 live mdy Also, teams could not hold official mini-camps because of the lockout.Wiederer Dan Craig Mark April 4, 2011 http://www.startribune.com/sports/vikings/blogs/119185754.html Mini-Camp Officially Cancelled Star Tribune Minneapolis, Minnesota December 6, 2012 On July 25, 2011, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and NFLPA President DeMaurice Smith signed a new, 10-year CBA, and the lockout officially ended.https://web.archive.org/web/20121107103607/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/6836275/roger-goodell-nflpa-demaurice-smith-sign-cba-hall-fame-steps November 7, 2012 https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6836275/roger-goodell-nflpa-demaurice-smith-sign-cba-hall-fame-steps Roger Goodell Signs 10-year CBA ESPN Associated Press August 6, 2011 December 1, 2012 live mdy Draft thumb|right|A. J. Green, the Bengals' first overall selection in the 2011 NFL draft The 2011 NFL draft was held on April 28 to 30, 2011 at Radio City Music Hall. In the first round, the Bengals picked A. J. Green, a wide receiver from the University of Georgia, at overall selection number 4.Wolstat Ryan July 29, 2011 https://lfpress.com/sports/football/2011/07/29/18484986.html Bush, Kolb, Ochocinco Traded on Busy Day in NFL The London Free Press November 30, 2012 In his last season at Georgia, Green missed the first four games, but he finished with a team-high 57 receptions for 848 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns.Newberry Paul January 9, 2011 http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/jan/9/georgia-wr-aj-green-declares-for-nfl-draft/?page=all#pagebreak Georgia WR A.J. Green Declares for NFL Draft The Washington Times November 30, 2012 The Bengals selected TCU quarterback Andy Dalton in the second round, with overall selection number 35.Kay Jon April 29, 2011 https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/30/andy-dalton-drafted-cincinnati-bengals-palmer_n_855818.html Andy Dalton Drafted By Cincinnati Bengals in Second Round: Carson Palmer's Replacement? Huffington Post Associated Press November 30, 2012 These first two picks were replacements for starting wide receiver Chad Ochocinco and quarterback Carson Palmer, respectively.https://www.espn.com/dallas/nfl/news/story?id=6451436 Bengals select TCU's Andy Dalton ESPN April 30, 2011 November 30, 2012 In the third round, the Bengals selected defensive lineman Dontay Moch of University of Nevada.http://www.ktvn.com/story/14548389/broncos-select-green-as-nevada-has-three-players-drafted Broncos Select Green As Nevada Has Three Players Drafted KTVN Reno, Nevada CBS August 10, 2011 November 30, 2012 During the NFL Scouting Combine, Moch ran a 4.44 40-yard dash, making him the fastest defensive lineman to ever run the dash.Campbell Morgan February 28, 2011 https://www.thestar.com/article/946369 The False Economy of Speed Toronto Star November 30, 2012 The Bengals' next pick was another player from Georgia University; it selected offensive lineman Clint Boling in the fourth round. Boling was a 3-time All-SEC pick and, during his college tenure, was a versatile lineman who can play tackle or guard.http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/42836730/ns/sports-player_news/ https://archive.today/20130129053733/http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/42836730/ns/sports-player_news/ dead January 29, 2013 Bengals Draft Clint Boling at No. 101 NBC Sports NBC April 30, 2011 November 30, 2012 In the fifth round, free safety Robert Sands was chosen with the 134 pick.http://www.foxsportsohio.com/08/08/11/Dispatches-from-Bengals-Camp/landing_bengals.html?blockID=545104&feedID=3665 Dispatches from Bengals' Camp Fox Sports Fox Broadcasting Company August 8, 2011 November 30, 2012 The Bengals' picked wide receiver Ryan Whalen of Stanford University in the sixth round.http://www.gostanford.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/043011aad.html Ryan Whalen Selected by Cincinnati in the Sixth Round Stanford University April 30, 2011 November 30, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20121029102913/http://www.gostanford.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/043011aad.html October 29, 2012 mdy The final two picks for the Bengals were cornerback Korey Lindsey of Southern Illinois University and running back Jay Finley of Baylor University.Powers Scott April 30, 2011 https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/news/story?id=6457032 Korey Lindsey drafted by Bengals ESPN November 30, 2012http://www.kwtx.com/sports/headlines/Baylors_Baker_Finley__121035809.html?ref=809 Baylor's Baker, Finley Selected in NFL Draft Waco, Texas KWTX-TV Gray Television April 30, 2011 November 30, 2012 https://archive.today/20130127111339/http://www.kwtx.com/sports/headlines/Baylors_Baker_Finley__121035809.html?ref=809 January 27, 2013 dead mdy-all In July, the Bengals signed five draft picks to contracts.http://www.fox19.com/story/15165151/bengals-sign-first-round-draft-pick-aj-green Bengals Sign Green, Three more Draft Picks Fox Sports Fox Broadcasting Company July 29, 2011 November 30, 2012Stein David July 31, 2011 http://www.pegasusnews.com/news/2011/jul/31/andy-dalton-signs-four-year-5-million-bengals/ Former TCU quarterback Andy Dalton Signs Four Year, $5.2 Million Contract with Cincinnati Bengals Fort Worth, Texas Pegasus News November 30, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121012215214/http://www.pegasusnews.com/news/2011/jul/31/andy-dalton-signs-four-year-5-million-bengals/ October 12, 2012 dead mdy-all 2011 Cincinnati Bengals 1 4 A. J. Green Wide receiver Georgia yes yes 2 35 Andy Dalton Quarterback TCU yes yes 3 66 Dontay Moch Linebacker Nevada yes 4 101 Clint Boling Guard Georgia yes 5 134 Robert Sands Safety West Virginia yes 6 167 Ryan Whalen Wide receiver Stanford yes 7 207 Korey Lindsey Cornerback Southern Illinois no 7 246 Jay Finley Running back Baylor no yes no Undrafted free agents Name Position College Colin Cochart Tight end South Dakota State Landon Cox Wide receiver Northern Illinois DeQuin Evans Linebacker Kentucky Stephen Franklin Linebacker Southern Illinois John Griffin Running back UMass Andrew Hawkins Wide receiver Toledo Jamere Holland Wide receiver Lindenwood Bart Johnson Wide receiver TCU Lolomana Mikaele Defensive tackle Arizona Matthew O’Donnell Tackle Queen's Chris Riley Guard Illinois State Thomas Weber Kicker Arizona State Jonathan Williams Running back East Carolina Staff 2011 Cincinnati Bengalshttps://web.archive.org/web/20110425141742/http://www.bengals.com/team/staff-directory.html Cincinnati Bengals 2011 Staff Directory April 25, 2011 Cincinnati Bengals December 8, 2012 http://www.bengals.com/team/staff-directory.html https://web.archive.org/web/20110425143523/http://www.bengals.com/team/coaches.html Coaches April 25, 2011 Cincinnati Bengals December 8, 2012 http://www.bengals.com/team/coaches.html staff Front office Owner/president/general manager – Mike Brown Executive vice president – Katie Blackburn Senior vice president of player personnel – Pete Brown Vice president of player personnel – Paul H. Brown Director of football operations – Jim Lippincott Director of player personnel – Duke Tobin Head coaches Head coach – Marvin Lewis Assistant head coach/offensive line – Paul Alexander Offensive coaches Offensive coordinator – Jay Gruden Quarterbacks – Ken Zampese Running backs – Jim Anderson Wide receivers – James Urban Tight ends – Jonathan Hayes Offensive quality control – Kyle Caskey Defensive coaches Defensive coordinator – Mike Zimmer Defensive line – Jay Hayes Linebackers – Jeff FitzGerald Defensive backs – Kevin Coyle Defensive quality control – David Lippincott Special teams coaches Special teams – Darrin Simmons Assistant special teams/assistant defensive backs – Paul Guenther Strength and conditioning Strength and conditioning – Chip Morton Assistant strength and conditioning – Jeff Friday Coaching assistants Brayden Coombs Final roster 2011 Cincinnati Bengals 53 10 8http://www.bengals.com/team/historical-roster.html Roster Cincinnati Bengals November 30, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121106213937/http://www.bengals.com/team/historical-roster.html November 6, 2012 dead 14 Andy Dalton y  7 Bruce Gradkowski 32 Cedric Benson 40 Brian Leonard 30 Cedric Peerman 36 Chris Pressley FB 28 Bernard Scott 85 Armon Binns y 18 A. J. Green y 16 Andrew Hawkins 89 Jerome Simpson 19 Brandon Tate RS 88 Ryan Whalen y 81 Colin Cochart y 84 Jermaine Gresham 86 Donald Lee American football 65 Clint Boling y G 73 Anthony Collins American football T 64 Kyle Cook American football C 60 Otis Hudson G 62 Nate Livings G 66 Mike McGlynn G 74 Dennis Roland T 71 Andre Smith offensive tackle T 77 Andrew Whitworth T 97 Geno Atkins DT 96 Carlos Dunlap DE 68 Jonathan Fanene DE 91 Robert Geathers DE 98 Nick Hayden DT 93 Michael Johnson defensive end DE 94 Domata Peko DT 92 Frostee Rucker DE 53 Thomas Howard American football OLB 59 Brandon Johnson linebacker OLB 99 Manny Lawson OLB 58 Rey Maualuga MLB 52 Dontay Moch y OLB 57 Vincent Rey OLB 51 Dan Skuta MLB 22 Nate Clements CB 42 Chris Crocker American football SS 21 Brandon Ghee CB 23 Kelly Jennings CB 24 Adam Jones American football CB 26 Taylor Mays FS 45 Jeromy Miles SS 20 Reggie Nelson FS 31 Robert Sands American football y FS 27 Gibril Wilson SS/FS 46 Clark Harris LS 10 Kevin Huber P  2 Mike Nugent K 87 Andre Caldwell WR IR 29 Leon Hall CB IR 56 Roddrick Muckelroy MLB IR 55 Keith Rivers OLB NF-Inj. 83 Bo Scaife TE IR 11 Jordan Shipley WR IR 90 Pat Sims DT IR 63 Bobbie Williams G IR 37 John Bowie American football CB IR 80 Chase Coffman TE 35 James Develin FB 41 DeQuin Evans y LB IR 17 Vidal Hazelton y WR 50 Micah Johnson gridiron football LB 95 Swanson Miller DT 25 Devon Torrence y CB 76 Matt O'Donnell Canadian football y T  5 Zac Robinson QB Training camp thumb|right|Andy Dalton during training camp Training camp was held at Georgetown College, in Georgetown, Kentucky, for the 15th straight year.Maloney Mark July 24, 2010 http://www.kentucky.com/2010/07/24/1361520/bengals-georgetown-together-through.html Bengals, Georgetown Together Through 2011 Lexington Herald-Leader The McClatchy Company December 1, 2012 Players reported on July 28,https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/41991/when-training-camps-open When training camps open ESPN July 25, 2011 December 3, 2012 the first practice was July 30, and camp ended on August 7.Garrison James July 28, 2011 http://www.cincyjungle.com/2011/7/28/2301046/bengals-training-camp-schedule-released Bengals Training Camp Schedule Released Cincy Jungle SB Nation December 1, 2012 On July 28, the Bengals traded Ochocinco to the New England Patriots for a late draft pick in 2012 and another late pick in 2013.https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/07/28/chad-ochocinco-traded-patriots-bengals_n_912768.html Chad Ochocinco Traded: Patriots Acquire Receiver From Bengals September 27, 2011 The Huffington Post December 2, 2012 A few days later, running back Cedric Benson, who was arrested prior, signed a new, one-year contract with the team.https://lfpress.com/sports/football/2011/07/31/18493881.html Bengals Bring Back Benson The London Free Press December 2, 2012 Other notable roster changes during training camp include cutting defensive end Antwan Odom because of his injury,Walker James July 27, 2011 https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/42413/bengals-release-de-antwan-odom Bengals Release DE Antwan Odom ESPN December 2, 2012 and cornerback Johnathan Joseph was picked up from free agency by the Houston Texans.Prisco Pete September 1, 2011 http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/story/15511310/season-preview-2011-bengals Season Preview: 2011 Bengals CBS Sports CBS December 2, 2012 The San Diego Union Tribune claimed Green was the best player of the entire training camp.Kay Joe August 6, 2011 http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2011/aug/06/aj-green-making-biggest-impression-in-bengals-camp/ A. J. Green Making Biggest Impression in Bengals Camp San Diego Union Tribune December 3, 2012 The Bengals wanted cornerback Adam Jones to participate to hopefully become the starter; however, he did not participate in camp due to a neck injury.Benoit Andy August 26, 2011 http://fifthdown.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/08/26/2011-cincinnati-bengals-season-preview/ 2011 Cincinnati Bengals Season Preview The New York Times December 1, 2012 On the first day of practice, linebacker Roddrick Muckelro ruptured his Achilles' tendon, which caused him to miss the entire season.Maloney Mark July 31, 2011 http://www.kentucky.com/2011/07/31/1829848/bengals-first-practice-soggy-but.html Bengals' First Practice Soggy but Hopeful Lexington Herald-Leader The McClatchy Company December 1, 2012 Dalton played well enough in training camp for Marvin Lewis to nominate him to be the starter for the opening pre-season game.Machota Jon August 9, 2011 http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/college-sports/headlines/20110809-former-tcu-qb-andy-dalton-to-start-preseason-opener-for-bengals.ece Former TCU QB Andy Dalton to start preseason opener for Bengals The Dallas Morning News A. H. Belo Corporation December 2, 2012 Former Bengals quarterback Boomer Esiason criticized this move claiming, "If they force-feed [Dalton] and put him in games right away, he will get killed. He will get eaten alive."Daugherty Paul August 5, 2011 http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/paul_daugherty/08/05/andy-dalton/ https://archive.today/20130119102556/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/paul_daugherty/08/05/andy-dalton/ dead January 19, 2013 Bengals Getting Ready to Throw Rookie Andy Dalton to the Wolves Sports Illustrated Time Inc December 2, 2012 Preseason Cincinnati opened their pre-season schedule with a 34–3 loss to the Detroit Lions.Lage Larry August 12, 2011 http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2011/aug/12/stafford-throws-2-tds-and-lions-beat-bengals-34-3/ Stafford Throws 2 TDs and Lions Beat Bengals 34–3 San Diego Union Tribune Associated Press November 30, 2012 The first offensive play for the Bengals resulted in a sack from DL Ndamukong Suh, and the pass was intercepted by CB Chris Houston.http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310812008 https://web.archive.org/web/20110919002838/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310812008 dead September 19, 2011 Matthew Stafford Throws 2 TDs as Lions Run over Bengals ESPN Associated Press November 30, 2012 The only score for the Bengals was a field goal from kicker Mike Nugent.https://www.espn.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=310812008 Box Score ESPN November 30, 2012 For its second game, the Bengals traveled to New Jersey to play the New York Jets. The final score of the game was a 27–7 defeat.https://lfpress.com/sports/football/2011/08/21/18583361.html Jets Beat Bengals; Burress Catches TD The London Free Press August 21, 2011 November 30, 2012 The Bengals' offense was not productive, and Dalton claimed, "I have to come out and play better."http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310821020 https://web.archive.org/web/20111226193238/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310821020 dead December 26, 2011 Plaxico Burress' 3 Catches, Diving TD Highlight NFL Return, Propel Jets ESPN Associated Press November 30, 2012 In pre-season week 3, the Bengals played their first home game of the season, and won 24–13 against the Carolina Panthers.http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/gametracker/recap/NFL_20110825_CAR@CIN Dalton Shines in Bengals' Preseason Win over Panthers CBS Sports CBS August 25, 2011 November 30, 2012 The Bengals' final game was another home game, playing against the Indianapolis Colts. The starters did not play much, and the team ended up losing 17–14.Kay Joe September 1, 2011 http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2011/sep/01/collins-struggles-as-colts-beat-bengals-17-13/ Collins Struggles as Colts Beat Bengals 17–13 San Diego Union Tribune November 30, 2012 On September 3, 2011, the Bengals' organization released 27 roster spots, in order to make room for the limit of 53 players.http://www.webn.com/pages/Bengals.html?article=9064988 Bengals Make Final Roster Cuts WEBN Clear Channel Communications Cincinnati, Ohio September 3, 2011 December 1, 2012 https://archive.today/20130209103055/http://www.webn.com/pages/Bengals.html?article=9064988 February 9, 2013 dead mdy-all It also acquired WR Brandon Tate, OL Mike McGlynn, and TE Mickey Shuler from waivers.Walker James September 4, 2011 https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/44371/bengals-2011-practice-squad Bengals 2011 Practice Squad ESPN December 1, 2012 Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue Recap 1 August 12, 2011 at Detroit Lions L 3–34 0–1 Ford Field Recap 2 August 21 at New York Jets L 7–27 0–2 New Meadowlands Stadium Recap 3 August 25, 2011 Carolina Panthers W 24–13 1–2 Paul Brown Stadium Recap 4 September 1, 2011 Indianapolis Colts L 13–17 1–3 Paul Brown Stadium Recap Regular season thumb|right|Paul Brown Stadium, the home stadium for the Bengals Based on 2010 standings, the Bengals had an easy schedule,Tylicki Dan April 19, 2011 http://bleacherreport.com/articles/670600-2011-nfl-schedule-a-look-at-each-teams-projected-matchups/entry/66147-cincinnati-bengals-2011-schedule-easy-schedule-should-help-offense Cincinnati Bengals 2011 Schedule: Easy Schedule Should Help Offense Bleacher Report Turner Broadcasting System December 1, 2012May 2026 medicmedic with an opponent winning percentage of .473;Hardin Marc April 19, 2011 http://cin.scout.com/2/1065829.html https://archive.today/20130202033002/http://cin.scout.com/2/1065829.html dead February 2, 2013 Bengals' 2011 Schedule Released Scout.com December 1, 2012 5 teams were played against that finished 2011 with winning records, and 8 teams were played against that finished 2011 with losing records.http://www.nfl.com/standings?category=league&season=2011-REG&split=Overall Standings National Football League December 1, 2012 The Bengals played each of the teams in the AFC North twice, once home and once on the road. It played its home games at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati's match-ups included the Seattle Seahawks and the Colts, both of which won its respective divisions in 2010.https://www.espn.com/nfl/standings/_/year/2010 NFL Standings – 2010 ESPN December 1, 2012 Because of the Bengals' losing record in 2010, the NFL decided to not give Cincinnati any prime-time games.Garrison James April 19, 2011 http://www.cincyjungle.com/2011/4/19/2121384/the-cincinnati-bengals-2011-season-schedule The Cincinnati Bengals 2011 Season Schedule Cincy Jungle SB Nation December 1, 2012 Six of the Bengals' eight home games were blacked out locally due to poor ticket sales. Dating back to 2010, seven consecutive games were blacked out locally.http://cincinnati.com/blogs/bengals/2011/10/11/blackout-streak-hits-seven/ Blackout Streak Hits Seven The Cincinnati Enquirer October 11, 2011 December 1, 2012 That streak ended in week 10 when the Bengals hosted the Pittsburgh Steelers. There were three more blackouts before the Bengals sold out the final home game of the season against the Baltimore Ravens, a game with playoff implications for both teams.Hensley Jamison December 28, 2011 https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7395976/cincinnati-bengals-avoid-blackout-second-time-season Bengals announce sellout for finale ESPN December 1, 2012 The Bengals' average home crowd of 49,251 was the worst of the entire NFL.https://www.espn.com/nfl/attendance/_/year/2011 NFL Attendance – 2011 ESPN December 1, 2012 Green was one of four players from the Bengals to be nominated to the 2012 Pro Bowl, who became the first rookie wide receiver to accomplish this feat since 2003.http://www.oxfordpress.com/news/sports/football/ajs-green-part-of-short-pro-bowl-list-1/nMx4w/ A.J.'s Green Part of Short Pro Bowl The Oxford Press Cox Media Group December 28, 2011 December 3, 2012 The other three players were Dalton, Atkins, and Gresham.http://www.nfl.com/probowl/story/09000d5d82578253/article/2012-pro-bowl-rosters 2012 Pro Bowl Rosters National Football League December 3, 2012 Andrew Whitworth was the only player to make the Associated Press' All-Pro team.http://www.news-leader.com/viewart/20120106/SPORTS/120106022/football-nfl-voting-pro 2011 NFL All-Pro Team Voting Springfield, Missouri Springfield News-Leader Gannett Company January 6, 2012 Associated Press December 3, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20140819110729/http://www.news-leader.com/viewart/20120106/SPORTS/120106022/football-nfl-voting-pro August 19, 2014 dead mdy-all In week 10, Dalton threw his thirteenth and fourteenth touchdown pass, making him the most passing touchdowns by a rookie in his team's first nine games since the AFL–NFL merger (1970).http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311113004 https://web.archive.org/web/20111117140014/http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311113004 dead November 17, 2011 Steelers March Past Bengals, Pick Off Andy Dalton Late to Seal Win ESPN Associated Press December 4, 2012 He also placed second in the Associated Press' Offensive Player of the Year award.https://www.nfl.com/news/panthers-newton-voted-ap-offensive-rookie-of-the-year-09000d5d8269d38a Panthers' Newton voted AP Offensive Rookie of the Year National Football League February 4, 2012 December 5, 2012 Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue Recap 1 September 11 at Cleveland Browns W 27–17 1–0 Cleveland Browns Stadium Recap 2 September 18 at Denver Broncos L 22–24 1–1 Sports Authority Field at Mile High Recap 3 September 25 San Francisco 49ers L 8–13 1–2 Paul Brown Stadium Recap 4 October 2 Buffalo Bills W 23–20 2–2 Paul Brown Stadium Recap 5 October 9 at Jacksonville Jaguars W 30–20 3–2 EverBank Field Recap 6 October 16 Indianapolis Colts W 27–17 4–2 Paul Brown Stadium Recap 7Bye 8 October 30 at Seattle Seahawks W 34–12 5–2 CenturyLink Field Recap 9 November 6 at Tennessee Titans W 24–17 6–2 LP Field Recap 10 November 13 Pittsburgh Steelers L 17–24 6–3 Paul Brown Stadium Recap 11 November 20 at Baltimore Ravens L 24–31 6–4 M&T Bank Stadium Recap 12 November 27 Cleveland Browns W 23–20 7–4 Paul Brown Stadium Recap 13 December 4 at Pittsburgh Steelers L 7–35 7–5 Heinz Field Recap 14 December 11 Houston Texans L 19–20 7–6 Paul Brown Stadium Recap 15 December 18 at St. Louis Rams W 20–13 8–6 Edward Jones Dome Recap 16 December 24, 2011 Arizona Cardinals W 23–16 9–6 Paul Brown Stadium Recap 17 January 1 Baltimore Ravens L 16–24 9–7 Paul Brown Stadium Recap Note: Intra-division opponents are in bold text. Standings The 2011 season was the Bengals' tenth season as members of the AFC North Division. In 2010, the Bengals finished fourth—and last—place in the standings. Entering the 2011 season, sportswriter Andy Benoit of The New York Times and five analysts for ESPN predicted the team to finish last.https://www.espn.com/nfl/preview11/team/_/name/cin Cincinnati Bengals 2011 Preview ESPN September 1, 2011 December 4, 2012 The Bengals finished the regular season with a 9–7 record, which was good enough for the team to win a Wild Card spot in the playoffs. The Cleveland Browns was the only team from the division to not make the playoffs; the Baltimore Ravens won the division, and the Pittsburgh Steelers earned the second Wild Card spot.Chang Austin January 2, 2012 https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ycn-10780223 2012 NFL Playoff TV Schedule Yahoo! Sports Yahoo! December 6, 2012 Week 1: at Cleveland Browns Bengals 10 3 0 14 Browns 0 14 3 0 September 11, 2011 at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio The Bengals started their regular season against the Cleveland Browns, in front of 67,321 spectators at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio.http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/55167/CLE_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary: Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns National Football League 1–13 February 14, 2012 November 30, 2012 On the Bengals' opening drive, the team drove 53-yards and got a field goal. The Bengals' next two drives were a touchdown and another field goal, respectively.http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310911005 https://archive.today/20130124161331/http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310911005 dead January 24, 2013 A.J. Green's First Career TD Catch Helps Bengals Stun Browns Late ESPN Associated Press November 30, 2012 Cleveland scored two touchdowns in the second quarter to be up 14–13 going into halftime. On the Bengals' final offensive play before halftime, Dalton was sacked and injured; he did not play the rest of the game. The Bengals were the first to get the ball in the third quarter, but it did not score the entire quarter. On the other hand, the Browns kicked a field goal in the third to go up by four points. In the final quarter, the Bengals scored two touchdowns, including the longest play of the game: a 44-yard reception to Green. With the win, the Bengals began the season 1–0 and secured their first regular season opening day win since 2007.http://www.fox19.com/story/15436044/bengals-stun-browns-27-17 Bengals Stun Browns 27–17 WXIX-TV Associated Press Cincinnati, Ohio Fox Broadcasting Company September 11, 2011 December 5, 2012 Also, Dalton became the fifth quarterback to win his road debut as a rookie.Hobson Geoff September 11, 2011 http://www.bengals.com/news/article-1/Dalton-injured-but-Bengals-win-improbably-27-17/1f8f468a-5c4b-4d5b-8a4a-c17d6580cabc Dalton Injured But Bengals Win Improbably, 27–17 Cincinnati Bengals December 5, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120616045231/http://www.bengals.com/news/article-1/Dalton-injured-but-Bengals-win-improbably-27-17/1f8f468a-5c4b-4d5b-8a4a-c17d6580cabc June 16, 2012 dead Week 2: at Denver Broncos Bengals 0 3 12 7 Broncos 7 3 7 7 September 18, 2011 at Sports Authority Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado thumb|left|The Bengals against the Broncos The Bengals came into the game losing the previous two games against the Denver Broncos.https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=cin&tm2=den&yr=all Boxscore Finder: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Denver Broncos Pro-Football-Reference.com Sports Reference December 5, 2012 The Bengals have not won at Denver since 1975.http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310918007 https://web.archive.org/web/20110925040910/http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310918007 dead September 25, 2011 Kyle Orton's 2 TD Passes Help John Fox Get First Win in Denver ESPN Associated Press November 30, 2012 Dalton started the game, despite missing practices and not being cleared until Friday because of his wrist injury.Clayton John September 16, 2011 https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6978132/cincinnati-bengals-andy-dalton-cleared-start-denver-broncos Bengals' Andy Dalton cleared to start ESPN Associated Press December 5, 2012 Paid attendance of 73,281 was the highest number of any games the Bengals played in 2011.http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/55191/DEN_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary: Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns National Football League 1–13 February 15, 2012 November 30, 2012 The first score of the game happened in the first quarter when RB Willis McGahee ran one yard for a touchdown. Both teams scored a field goal in the second quarter to make the game 10–3 going into halftime. Denver QB Kyle Orton threw two touchdown passes to WR Eric Decker—one in the third quarter and one in the fourth quarter. With two minutes left in the game, the Bengals were down 24–22 and tried to score to win the game. The Bengals reached midfield, but the Broncos' defense stopped the Bengals and a fourth-and-nineteen occurred. Dalton threw the ball away, and a turnover on downs happened. Dalton's passer rating of 107.0 was a franchise best by a rookie, and WR Jerome Simpson had a career-high 136 receiving yards.Hobson Geoff September 18, 2011 http://www.bengals.com/news/article-1/Bengals-lose-game-find-QB/1c2a3fea-9f71-4e70-9159-86773ae00a39 Bengals Lose Game, Find QB Cincinnati Bengals December 5, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120124135328/http://www.bengals.com/news/article-1/Bengals-lose-game-find-QB/1c2a3fea-9f71-4e70-9159-86773ae00a39 January 24, 2012 dead WR Jordan Shipley torn his anterior cruciate ligament this game, which ended his 2011 season.http://www.northjersey.com/sports/130176698_NFL_notes__Michael_Vick_s_status.html?page=all NFL Notes: Michael Vick's Status The Record Associated Press North New Jersey North Jersey Media Group September 20, 2011 December 5, 2012 Week 3: vs. San Francisco 49ers 49ers 0 0 3 10 Bengals 3 0 0 5 September 25, 2011 at Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio (Blacked Out) Playing versus the San Francisco 49ers at home for the first time since 2003,https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=cin&tm2=sfo&yr=all Boxscore Finder: Cincinnati Bengals vs San Francisco 49ers Pro-Football-Reference.com Sports Reference December 7, 2012 the Bengals lost 13–8 with the smallest crowd for a Bengals home opener since 1981.http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310925004 https://web.archive.org/web/20110928105800/http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310925004 dead September 28, 2011 Kendall Hunter Scores Game's Lone TD as 49ers Win at Cincy ESPN Associated Press November 30, 2012 Before the game, the team activated Simpson, who was previously injured.https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7018444/jerome-simpson-cincinnati-bengals-play-drug-investigation Bengals WR Jerome Simpson plays ESPN Associated Press September 25, 2011 December 7, 2012 The only score in the first half was when Nugent kicked a 22-yard field goal in the first quarter.http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/55198/CIN_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary: San Francisco 49ers vs. Cincinnati Bengals National Football League 1–12 November 9, 2011 November 30, 2012 It took until 3 minutes left in the third quarter for another score, when 49ers' kicker David Akers tied the game with a field goal. The Bengals' final possession ended when 49ers' Reggie Smith intercepted Dalton's pass with 1:45 left in the game. It was Dalton's first performance where his passer rating was below 100; this game he completed 17 of 32 passes for 157 yards and a rating of 40.8. Coach Lewis claimed the lack of third-down conversions (1–10) were the main reason why the team lost, saying that "We are not converting the third downs or converting in the red zone, and we are not coming away with touchdowns. Right now, that is our biggest deficiency."http://www.kentucky.com/2011/09/26/1897383/bengals-cant-convert-on-third.html Bengals Can't Convert on Third Downs in Loss to 49ers Lexington Herald-Leader The McClatchy Company September 26, 2011 December 7, 2012 Week 4: vs. Buffalo Bills Bills 0 17 0 3 Bengals 3 0 10 10 October 2, 2011 at Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio (Blacked Out) After two losses, the Bengals played the Buffalo Bills at home with 41,142 people in attendance.http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/55213/CIN_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary: Buffalo Bills at Cincinnati Bengals National Football League 1–12 February 15, 2012 December 4, 2012 Simpson was able to play this game, despite being under investigation for marijuana.http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311002004 https://web.archive.org/web/20111005054547/http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311002004 dead October 5, 2011 Bills Drop 1st Game as Andy Dalton Directs Bengals to Last-Second Win ESPN Associated Press December 3, 2012 Prior to this game, the Bengals lost 10-straight games to the Bills, dating back to the 1988 AFC championship game.Kay Joe October 2, 2011 http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/44749513/ns/sports-nfl/ Bengals Boot Bills from Unbeaten Ranks with Last-Second FG NBC Sports NBC Universal December 11, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120202055952/http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/44749513/ns/sports-nfl/ February 2, 2012 dead After two possessions resulting in punts, the Bengals got a field goal in the first quarter. In the second quarter, the Bills scored three times. Kicker Rian Lindell kicked a 43-yard field goal. In the next Bengals possession, Dalton threw an interception, which was returned for a touchdown. The Bills' running back Fred Jackson scored a 2-yard rushing touchdown for the team to be up 17–3 going into half time. Nugent kicked a field goal, and Gresham caught a touchdown pass in the third quarter to make the score 13–17 going into the final quarter. Lindell kicked a field goal on the Bills' opening drive to make the score 20–13. Dalton had a three-yard rushing touchdown two possessions later to tie the game at 20–20. On the Bengals' final possession of the game, on third-down-and-three-yards-to-go, Dalton scrambled and attempted to make the first down. He was originally called short the referee, but the call was reversed once the play was reviewed. Nugent kicked a game-winning field goal as time expired to beat the Bills 23–20. The win by the Bengals snapped a 10-game losing streak to the Bills. The Bengals had not beaten the Bills since the 1989 AFC Championship Game. Week 5: at Jacksonville Jaguars With the win, the Bengals went to 3–2 and snapped a seven-game road losing streak against the Jaguars, winning in Jacksonville for the first time since the 1995 season.Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Cincinnati Bengals https://www.footballdb.com/teams/nfl/jacksonville-jaguars/teamvsteam?opp=7&ha=H The Football Database Week 6: vs. Indianapolis Colts (Blacked Out) With the win, the Bengals went to 4–2. They also defeated the Colts for the first time since 1997, snapping their 7-game losing streak against them. Week 8: at Seattle Seahawks Bengals 10 7 0 17 Seahawks 0 3 3 6 October 30, 2011 at CenturyLink Field, Seattle, Washington The Bengals took a 10–0 lead in the first quarter thanks to a Mike Nugent 34-yard field goal and a 14-yard touchdown pass from Andy Dalton to Jerome Simpson. The Seahawks tallied 411 total yards, mostly through the air, behind backup quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, but were kept out of the end zone until midway through the fourth quarter. After a 48-yard field goal by Mike Nugent with 4:50 left in the game gave the Bengals a 20–12 lead, the Bengals sealed the victory with a Brandon Tate 56-yard punt return for a touchdown, and a Reggie Nelson 75-yard interception return for a touchdown. Week 9: at Tennessee Titans With the win, the Bengals improved to 6-2 and captured their first 5-game winning streak since 1988. Week 10: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers With the loss, the Bengals fell to 6–3, and had their 5-game winning streak snapped. Week 11: at Baltimore Ravens With the loss, the Bengals fell to 6–4. Week 12: vs. Cleveland Browns With the win, the Bengals improved to 7–4. Week 13: at Pittsburgh Steelers With the loss, the Bengals fell to 7–5. Week 14: vs. Houston Texans With the loss, the Bengals fell to 7–6, and are now in danger of falling out of the wild card hunt. Week 15: at St. Louis Rams With the win, the Bengals went to 8–6, and are still in the Wild Card hunt. Week 16: vs. Arizona Cardinals Cardinals 0 0 0 16 Bengals 10 10 3 0 December 24, 2011 at Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio The Bengals took a 20–0 halftime lead on the strength of Andy Dalton touchdown passes to Jermaine Gresham and Jerome Simpson, as well as two Mike Nugent field goals. The Cardinals finally mounted a comeback rally in the fourth quarter, but it fell short. This was the game when Jerome Simpson did a complete flip over Daryl Washington and landed on his feet for a touchdown. The Bengals improved to 9–6. Week 17: vs. Baltimore Ravens Ravens 10 7 0 7 Bengals 3 0 7 6 January 1, 2012 at Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio In their final regular season game of the year, the Bengals played against the Ravens for a second time. Since the game had playoff implications for both teams, the game time was moved from 1:00 pm EST to 4:15 pm EST.http://www.bizjournals.com/dayton/news/2011/12/28/bengals-sell-out-sundays-game-against.html Bengals Sell Out Crucial Game Against Ravens Dayton Business Journal American City Business Journals December 28, 2011 December 5, 2012 It was the second sell-out game for the Bengals all season.http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=320101004 https://web.archive.org/web/20160307042349/http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=320101004 dead March 7, 2016 Ravens Clinch AFC North, No. 2 Seed As Bengals Get Wild Card Despite Loss ESPN Associated Press December 4, 2012 The first score of the game came in the first quarter when Ravens running back Ray Rice ran for a 70-yard touchdown.http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/55405/CIN_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary: Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals National Football League 1–12 February 22, 2012 December 4, 2012 Nugent made three field goals this game, which gave him a team-record of 33 for the season. The team was down by 8 with 1:05 left in the game on their own 20-yard line. The game ended in a 24–16 loss when Dalton threw a pass out of the end zone as time expired. Despite the loss, the Bengals still gained a playoff spot because the Oakland Raiders and New York Jets lost, which allowed the Bengals to have the final Wild Card spot—their third appearance in the past 20 years.McManamon Pat January 1, 2012 http://www.foxsportsohio.com/01/01/12/Ravens-Bengals-both-reach-playoffs/landing_bengals.html?blockID=637736&feedID=3725 Ravens, Bengals both reach playoffs Fox Sports Fox Broadcasting Company December 12, 2012 Postseason 2011–12 NFL playoffs Their 9–7 regular season record gave the Bengals the second Wild Card spot in the AFC. Their record was tied with the Tennessee Titans, but it won the tie breaker because it had a better head-to-head win percentage.https://www.espn.com/nfl/standings/_/type/playoffs/sort/conferenceRank/year/2011/group/1/order/false NFL Playoff Standings – 2011 ESPN December 9, 2012 The Bengals were looking to get their first playoff win since 1990. This did not occur, as the team lost to the Houston Texans on January 7, 2012.Evans Simon Pingue Frank January 7, 2012 https://www.reuters.com/article/us-nfl-texans-idUSTRE80700P20120108 Texans Crush Bengals for First Playoff Win Reuters London, England Thomson Reuters December 6, 2012 Round Date Opponent (seed) Result Record Venue Recap Wild Card January 7, 2012 F j, Y at Houston Texans L 10–31 0–1 Reliant Stadium Recap References 30em Cincinnati Category:Cincinnati Bengals seasons Cincin