Formations Fantasy Football Review: Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals have many interesting prospects for fantasy football. AJ Green is a stud WR, and Giovani Bernard may be a first round pick at RB. One key question is how will new offensive coordinator Hue Jackson tweak the Bengals offense. A key belief is that the Bengals will now rely on the run, so this article focuses mainly on the Bengals running backs.
Star: Giovani Bernard (RB)
13 Stats: 170 carries-700 yards-5 TDs, 56 receptions-514 yards 3 TDs
Why He’s a Star: Bernard split time with the “Law Firm” last year and still put up impressive numbers as a rookie. This year he moves into the featured back role and should see his numbers further improve. While he may lose some carries to Jeremy Hill, it is realistic to think that Bernard puts up over 1,000 yards rushing, 500 yards receiving, and 10 total TDs.
Avoid: BenJarvus Green-Ellis (RB)
13 Stats: 220 carries-756 yards-7 TDs
Why to Avoid: While splitting time with the above mentioned Bernard, BJGE managed to put up nearly 800 rushing yards. However, with Bernard moving ahead of him on the depth chart and Jeremy Hill being drafted, it is possible BJGE does not even make the final roster. In fact, that may be his best chance of putting up solid numbers.
Sleeper: Jeremy Hill (RB)
Why He’s A Sleeper: Hill should see most of the carries that BJGE would have seen in previous years. The talented rookie from LSU will not accumulate many receptions, but he could run for around 650 yards and 5 TDs. Hill is worth a late round selection.
IDP to Watch: Vincent Rey (LB)
13 Stats: 36 tackles-21 assists-4 sacks-2 INTs
Why: When given the chance to start last year, Vincent Rey put up solid LB numbers. However, he was then sent to the bench in favor of the incumbent Rey Maualuga. Vincent Rey has the talent to start, and if given the chance, he will shine as a definite starting LB.
This article was written by Eric Talbot of Formations Fantasy Football League. You can follow him on twitter @etalbot81
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