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5 Bold Predictions For Cincinnati Bengals Defense in 2015

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5 Bold Predictions For Cincinnati Bengals Defense in 2015

Bengals Defense
Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

The Cincinnati Bengals defense took a step back in 2014 under first year defensive coordinator Paul Guenther. In 2015, Guenther will aim to return the defense to its top five form of the 2013 this season when it was led by now Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer. Devastated by injury a year ago, the Bengals defense has many experienced veterans returning. Here are five bold predictions for the Bengals defense heading into the 2015 season.

5. Defense Records 35-Plus Sacks

Carlos Dunlap
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

5. Defense Records 35-Plus Sacks

Carlos Dunlap
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

The last time the Bengals recorded more than 35 sacks in a season was in 2012, when the team ranked third in the NFL totaling 46 sacks. The Bengals defensive front is anchored by 2012 Second-Team All-Pro tackle Geno Atkins. In 2014, Carlos Dunlap recorded a team high eight sacks, the most in his career since entering the league in 2010. The Bengals also signed RE Michael Johnson who adds depth to a front line that is poised to break out in 2015.

4. George Iloka Emerges As Top Safety In AFC North

George Iloka
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

4. George Iloka Emerges As Top Safety In AFC North

George Iloka
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Iloka recorded a career high three interceptions, 73 tackles and 10 passes defended a year ago. Pro Football Focus graded Iloka as a top cover safety in 2014. In the past, AFC North defenses have been led by outstanding safety play. Steelers' Troy Polamalu and Ravens' Ed Reed each led their defense to Super Bowl victories. Entering the final year of his deal, Iloka needs to breakout as one of the AFC North top safeties to land a new contract.

3. Dre Kirkpatrick Will Earn Starting Role

Dre Kirkpatrick
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

3. Dre Kirkpatrick Will Earn Starting Role

Dre Kirkpatrick
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Now that Terrance Newman will be playing in Minnesota this season, the Bengals will have a new starting cornerback opposite of Leon Hall. Adam Jones has the experience and ability to be the starter, but has proven to be valuable in the nickel. Kirkpatrick finished strong in 2014, recording three interceptions in his last three games. After taking most of the first-team reps in minicamp, Kirkpatrick is expected to earn a starting role in 2015.

2. Paul Dawson Will Receive Defensive Rookie Of The Year Nomination

Paul Dawson
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

2. Paul Dawson Will Receive Defensive Rookie Of The Year Nomination

Paul Dawson
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Perhaps the most popular pick for the Bengals in this year’s draft came in the third round when they selected TCU linebacker Paul Dawson. Many experts believe Dawson is an NFL-ready linebacker. Dawson will have the opportunity to earn a starting role along with Sean Porter and Vincent Rey while Vontaze Burfict recovers from knee surgery. Dawson has a chance to make an immediate statement and could emerge throughout his 2015 rookie season.

1. Vontaze Burfict Returns To Pro Bowl Form

Vontaze Burfict
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

1. Vontaze Burfict Returns To Pro Bowl Form

Vontaze Burfict
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL’s leading tackler in 2013 (170) suffered a season ending ACL tear a year ago. Burfict is not expected to be ready to go come Week 1 after undergoing micro fracture knee surgery in January. Burfict will most likely begin the season on reserve/PUP. The Bengals are taking every precaution to make sure Burfict doesn’t aggravate the injury by coming back too early. Expect Burfict to return to Pro Bowl Form when he is 100 percent healthy.

Dan Miller is an NFL writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @RealDANimal45, or add him to your network on Google.

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