Bengals' inconsistencies post huge challenge to playoff berth

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CINCINNATI -- Cincinnati Bengals safety Vonn Bell was not in a talking mood on Monday.

He didn't want to explain why a piece of cardboard was wedged atop his right ear with what appeared to be white cotton balls. He didn't want to get into how he has been playing this year, splitting time with second-year player Jordan Battle, or his conversation with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo about his role moving forward.

"I don't want to discuss it," he said with a smile and deep laugh. "I'll keep that to myself."

Then the conversation at his locker shifted into what has become a common theme for this year's Bengals team -- a promising year that has morphed into a big…