Bengals' pass rush needs spark from 'five stars' like Geno Atkins

CINCINNATI -- The most silent player in the Bengals locker room has usually been the most ferocious.

Over the bulk of Geno Atkins' 10-year career, the quiet defensive tackle has let his on-field performance do all of the talking. But the conversation has been slightly different this season.

Through the first six games, Atkins has only one sack, his lowest total at this point of the schedule since 2014. For the Bengals’ pass rush to improve from its current status as one of the least effective in the NFL, it starts with Atkins.

"The five stars have to play like five stars," Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo said. "That’s how that goes. When you have guys that are Pro Bowlers and…