INTO THE FIRE
Last Sunday in Cleveland, Dalton Risner made a stunning debut for the Bengals. He signed just before Labor Day, only to find himself in the game ten days later. Despite limited practice, Risner played crucial snaps, helping the team score a touchdown and allowing only one pressure on 24 pass plays, according to Pro Football Focus.
After practice, Risner made sure to mention Mike McCarthy, the Bengals’ assistant offensive line coach. McCarthy dedicated time on his days off to help Risner understand the playbook, which shows the team’s commitment to his rapid onboarding. “I feel bad I didn’t say his name on camera,” Risner admitted. “He was trying to spend the day with his kids while helping me out.”
O-LINE FRAT
Offensive line coach Scott Peters also had a remarkable first game. Risner hadn’t worked with quarterback Joe Burrow until Lucas Patrick was injured early in the game. The crowd in Cleveland quickly added pressure, but the line held strong. Burrow managed to throw a 14-yard pass to tight end Mike Gesicki on Risner’s first play.
“The O-Line is a brotherhood,” right tackle Amarius Mims said. “Dalton has just arrived, but he feels like part of the team already.” Mims, only 22, admires Risner’s experience and leadership. “I’ve been lucky to learn from seasoned players like Alex Cappa and Lucas Patrick, and now from Dalton. It’s a huge help.”
When Risner got the call to join the team, he went straight to Mims for guidance. “He’s a beast,” Risner said of Mims. “He’s eager to learn and improve, which I respect.”
However, after the game, Risner definitely felt the toll. “I felt like I went into a woodchipper,” he joked, pointing out that nothing can fully prepare you for the real game. “Cardio is one thing, but nothing compares to getting hit on the field.”
As he gears up for his 82nd start against the Jaguars, Risner is ready to keep growing with this team, even as they face challenges like Patrick’s injury. The Bengals’ ability to adapt on the fly speaks volumes about their team spirit and camaraderie.
### Expert Insights
According to recent studies on team dynamics in sports, strong relationships among teammates can greatly impact performance on the field. A close-knit offensive line can help protect the quarterback and create more successful plays. This kind of chemistry often develops out of necessity but can flourish in environments that encourage communication and collaboration.
### Data Snapshot
A recent report from the NFL indicates that teams with stronger player relationships tend to perform better overall. Positive locker room culture can lead to a noticeable uptick in plays executed successfully. It’s intriguing to see how this plays out for the Bengals with Risner joining the mix.
Overall, the combination of experience and youthful eagerness in this offensive line could be key for the Bengals moving forward.
Source link
hobson,centerpiece,latest news,latest stories,Jacksonville Jaguars at Cincinnati Bengals (2025-REG-2),Quick Hits