Bengals struggle to find offensive rhythm
The Cincinnati Bengals are still trying to figure out how to run their offense effectively. After starting the season 2-0, Cincinnati dropped their last game 22-17 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. During that defeat, the team struggled badly on the ground, managing just 23 rushing yards on 15 carries.
That total was Cincinnati's lowest rushing output in a game since the 2012 season. To cope with the poor ground attack, quarterback Joe Burrow dropped back 58 times, which was the fourth highest mark of his career.
Under center struggles force shotgun reliance
Cincinnati spent months training Burrow to work under center behind Ted Karras to add more variety to their play calling. However, the results have not been good so far. The Bengals average just 3.3 yards per play when Burrow lines up under center, which ranks last in the NFL.
As a result, the offense has relied heavily on the shotgun formation. Cincinnati leads the league in shotgun usage at 72.3 percent. Against Jacksonville, they lined up in shotgun on 85.5 percent of their snaps.
Sticking with the plan against Miami
Despite the slow start, the team does not plan to abandon operating under center. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher said the team must improve at those plays rather than throw them away. Burrow also agreed that balance is required, noting that an effective run game is needed to make play action passes work properly.
Head coach Zac Taylor stated that success under center comes down to scoring points. The Bengals now head on the road to face the 0-4 Miami Dolphins. Miami currently ranks 29th in the NFL in points allowed per drive, offering Cincinnati a chance to put things right.
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