ESPN data suggests Bengals' run game is due to break out vs. Jaguars

Cincinnati Bengals v Cleveland Browns - NFL 2025 | Jason Miller/GettyImagesMuch of the discussion around the Cincinnati Bengals this offseason surrounded the state of their much-maligned defense, contract disputes, and slow starts. However, most people ignored an issue that has plagued the team longer, but is just as problematic, if not more so.

The offensive line and pass protection have been a problem in Cincinnati, unfortunately, for several seasons, dating back to when Andrew Whitworth and Andre Smith left the team. However, on Sunday, we saw the big men up front also struggle with run blocking.

In their 2025 season opener, the Bengals demonstrated that they still need to protect Joe…