NFL Cincinnati Bengals

5 Takeaways From Cincinnati Bengals’ Week 11 Win

5 Takeaways From Cincinnati Bengals' Week 11 Win

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A strong bounce-back win in Week 11 has the Cincinnati Bengals smelling playoffs again after victimizing the New Orleans Saints 27-10 on the road.

5. Rey Maualuga A Difference Maker

Cincinnati Bengals v Arizona Cardinals
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5. Rey Maualuga A Difference Maker

Cincinnati Bengals v Arizona Cardinals
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Getting their starting middle linebacker back in the lineup did wonders for a defense that gave up 24 points to the Cleveland Browns last Thursday. The Bengals held the Saints to three first-half points and 10 total in the game. No. 58 made a key second quarter tackle on fourth-and-goal to limit the Saints to zero points on that drive, resulting in a turnover on downs.

4. Jeremy Hill A Steal

Cincinnati Bengals v New Orleans Saints
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4. Jeremy Hill A Steal

Cincinnati Bengals v New Orleans Saints
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The Bengals have two very viable options at tailback this season. Giovani Bernard needs to get healthy, but in the meantime second-round draft pick Jeremy Hill from LSU is doing a great job of carrying the load. He has two 100-yard games over four starts in 2014.

3. A.J. Green Appears Healthy

Cincinnati Bengals v New Orleans Saints
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3. A.J. Green Appears Healthy

Cincinnati Bengals v New Orleans Saints
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Dealing with a nagging toe injury in recent weeks, Green played on short rest last Thursday night after facing Jacksonville in Week 9. He got a few extra days rest heading into the game with the Saints and looked like it made a world of difference. Green caught six passes for 127 yards and a score.

2. Bengals In AFC North Mix

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2. Bengals In AFC North Mix

Cleveland Browns v Cincinnati Bengals
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Marvin Lewis went straight to the film room following the Bengals' embarrassing Week 10 loss to the Browns. It looks like his homework paid off after an impressive road win this week. The Browns lost 23-7 to Houston on Sunday, so Cincy is right in the thick of the race for a division title at 6-3-1.

1. Andy Dalton Is Not A Horrible Quarterback

Cincinnati Bengals v New Orleans Saints
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1. Andy Dalton Is Not A Horrible Quarterback

Cincinnati Bengals v New Orleans Saints
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After an off day in Week 10 that led to much undeserved criticism, the Red Rifle got things back on track on the road in the Superdome. He outplayed future Hall of Famer Drew Brees in this one, going 16-for-22 en route to 220 yards passing and three touchdowns.

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