Is this year’s Bengals defense better than last year’s?

Even in some of the questionable years, the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense has carried the team to the postseason. Whether it was in 2009, 2011 or 2012, the Bengals’ defense was the catalyst to a playoff berth.

However, when it comes to analyzing the shortcomings of the team over the past two playoff-less seasons, blame can be pointed in a number of areas. The team’s No. 30 ranking against the run is something that hindered the club, while they also struggled to get off of the field on third down.

In an offseason where the team has made both significant changes and stuck with the status quo, it’s hard to say exactly where the Bengals’ defense resides. Given the overhaul at so many positions, are…