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2007 Cincinnati Bengals season

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2007Cincinnati Bengalsseason
OwnerMike Brown
Head coachMarvin Lewis
Home fieldPaul Brown Stadium
Results
Record7–9
Division place3rdAFC North
Playoff finishDid not qualify
Pro BowlersWRChad Johnson
Uniform
Glenn Holtand Cincinnati players prior to their December 23 match against theCleveland Browns

The2007 Cincinnati Bengals seasonwas the 38th season for the team in theNational Football League(NFL) and their 40th overall season. The team attempted to improve upon their 8–8 record in2006and were looking to return to the playoffs after narrowly missing them. They failed to do so, finishing with a 7–9 record.

Offseason

[edit]

Coaching changes

[edit]

Head coachMarvin Lewisentered his fifth year with the Bengals. He was joined by offensive coordinatorBob Bratkowskiand defensive coordinatorChuck Bresnahan.

Personnel moves

[edit]
Offseason personnel moves
Transaction Position Name To/From
--- Safety Kevin Kaesviharn ToNew Orleans Saints
--- Guard Eric Steinbach ToCleveland Browns
--- Linebacker Brian Simmons ToNew Orleans Saints
--- Tight end Tony Stewart ToOakland Raiders
--- Linebacker Marcus Wilkins ToAtlanta Falcons
--- Wide receiver Kelly Washington ToNew England Patriots
--- Defensive tackle Shaun Smith ToCleveland Browns
Retired Center Rich Braham Retirement
--- Cornerback Tory James ToNew England Patriots
--- Defensive tackle Sam Adams ToDenver Broncos
Released Linebacker A. J. Nicholson
Signed Defensive tackle Michael Myers FromDenver Broncos
Signed Linebacker Edgerton Hartwell FromAtlanta Falcons
Signed Cornerback Blue Adams FromTampa Bay Buccaneers

NFL Draft

[edit]
2007 Cincinnati Bengals draft
Round Pick Player Position College Notes
1 18 Leon Hall Cornerback Michigan
2 49 Kenny Irons Running back Auburn
4 114 Marvin White Safety TCU
5 151 Jeff Rowe Quarterback Nevada
6 187 Matt Toeaina Defensive tackle Oregon
7 230 Dan Santucci Guard Notre Dame
7 253 Chinedum Ndukwe Safety Notre Dame compensatory selection
Made roster

[1]

Suspensions

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Chris Henry,after repeated off-field run-ins with the law, was suspended for 8 games (half the regular season) after a private meeting with NFL CommissionerRoger Goodell.[2]Chris Henry was arrested for driving without a license and a seatbelt, which led to the meeting with Goodell and his subsequent suspension for 8 games. In May, it was reported he failed a drug test as part of his parole agreement but shortly after the announcement was made it was recanted by the Kentucky police department.[3]

Odell Thurman,another NFL player currently under contract with the Bengals has had legal troubles and still appears to be in trouble with the Bengals as well. Head coachMarvin Lewisrepeatedly avoided or refused to speak about his status with the team after Thurman was suspended for all of 2006.[4]When Thurman applied for reinstatement in July 2007 he was denied and was further suspended the entire 2007–08 season. The exact reason for the extension was not specified by the league but many suspect it had to do with a drunk-driving incident earlier that same month.[5]His suspension prompted Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge John Burlew to call the NFL officials "Hypocrites" for promoting alcohol sales and consumption during games but punishing players for drinking.

Off-field incidents

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Levi Joneswas involved in an altercation with linebackerJoey Porterof theMiami Dolphins.[6]Allegedly Porter and some others ambushed Levi, physically assaulted and robbed him. Porter was charged with a misdemeanor for assault. Jones characterized the incident as a "cowardly assault".

AJ Nicholsonwas arrested for the second time in as many years but for domestic violence. His wife dropped the charges but due to statutory state laws the state continued to press charges. On the day his arrest was announced he was released a few hours later by the Bengals.[7]

Important injuries

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David Pollack, injured last season with a broken neck vertebrae spent the season in rehab with hopes of returning in the 2008–09 season. Pollack later announced his retirement from the NFL.[8]

Kenny Irons, the 2nd round draft pick, experienced a serious knee injury during a preseason game against theDetroit Lions,which forced him onto injured reserve for his rookie year.[9]

Chris Perry experienced another injury which threatens to keep him out the entire season. In August, he was placed on the physically unable to perform list, meaning he had to miss at least six games. In November, Bengals announced that he would remain on the list for the rest of the season.[10]

Eric Hendersonfractured his wrist during the preseason against theNew Orleans Saintsand was put on injured reserve for the rest of the season.[11]

Preseason games

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Shayne Grahamkicks anextra pointagainst theAtlanta Falconsin preseason, August 27, 2007

In the previous preseason the Bengals went 4–0. The Bengals 2007 preseason run ended at 1–3, with its final victory the game againstIndianapolisin which neitherCarson PalmernorPeyton Manningcame prepared to play.

The preseason started off with a loss to the Detroit Lions at their dome. The big focus was the limited showdown and relationship between Palmer and his former mentorJon Kitna.The Bengals' starting team did not score a touchdown in their possessions, walking away with 2 Shayne Graham field goals and a huge time of possession advantage before they were benched. The Lions' starters did not score a TD during their possessions during that same time. In this game the second-round draft pick, Kenny Irons, experienced his season-ending injury. Detroit went on to win the game.

The second game was against the New Orleans Saints. Again, the starting Bengals offense failed to score a TD and settled for several Shane Graham field goals. LB Henderson suffered a season-ending wrist injury late in the game.

The third game was at the home of the Atlanta Falcons on a Monday night. The starting Bengals played until the 3rd quarter and scored two touchdowns to end their drought. Shayne Graham was injured on a kickoff during an attempted tackle and did not return to kick any PATs or kickoffs, which meant the Bengals made a conversion attempt on 4th down and attempted a 2-point try. Atlanta's starting team, led by Joey Harrington since Vick's legal troubles will keep him from the team, also managed two touchdowns. The Bengals went on to lose the game.

Their fourth and final game, also their only preseason win, took place on August 31. Neither starting quarterback came prepared to play; though Palmer at least wore his uniform, while Manning dressed up in a Colts polo. Cincinnati scored 14 points in the 3rd quarter, with no score coming from the orange jerseys before or after that quarter. Indianapolis scored 6 in the 4th quarter, falling 8 points short of victory.

Personnel

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2007 Cincinnati Bengals staff

Front office

  • President –Mike Brown
  • Executive vice president –Katie Blackburn
  • Vice president – John Sawyer
  • Vice president – Troy Blackburn
  • Senior vice president of player personnel – Pete Brown
  • Vice president of player personnel – Paul Brown
  • Director of football operations – Jim Lippincott
  • Director of player personnel – Duke Tobin
  • Scouting consultants –John Cooper,Bill Tobin

Head coaches

Offensive coaches

Defensive coaches

Special teams coaches

Strength and conditioning

  • Strength and conditioning – Chip Morton
  • Assistant strength and conditioning –Ray Oliver

Roster

[edit]
2007 Cincinnati Bengals final roster
Quarterbacks

Running backs

Wide receivers

Tight ends

Offensive linemen

Defensive linemen

Linebackers

Defensive backs

Special teams

Reserve lists


Practice squad


Rookies in italics
52 active, 20 inactive, 6 practice squad

Preseason

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Week Date Opponent Result Record Game site NFL.com
recap
1 August 9 atDetroit Lions L26–27 0–1 Ford Field Recap
2 August 18 New Orleans Saints L19–27 0–2 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
3 August 27 atAtlanta Falcons L19–24 0–3 Georgia Dome Recap
4 August 31 Indianapolis Colts W14–6 1–3 Paul Brown Stadium Recap

Regular season

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Schedule

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Week Date Opponent Result Record Game site NFL.com
recap
1 September 10 Baltimore Ravens W27–20 1–0 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
2 September 16 atCleveland Browns L45–51 1–1 Cleveland Browns Stadium Recap
3 September 23 atSeattle Seahawks L21–24 1–2 Qwest Field Recap
4 October 1 New England Patriots L13–34 1–3 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
5 Bye
6 October 14 atKansas City Chiefs L20–27 1–4 Arrowhead Stadium Recap
7 October 21 New York Jets W38–31 2–4 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
8 October 28 Pittsburgh Steelers L13–24 2–5 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
9 November 4 atBuffalo Bills L21–33 2–6 Ralph Wilson Stadium Recap
10 November 11 atBaltimore Ravens W21–7 3–6 M&T Bank Stadium Recap
11 November 18 Arizona Cardinals L27–35 3–7 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
12 November 25 Tennessee Titans W35–6 4–7 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
13 December 2 atPittsburgh Steelers L10–24 4–8 Heinz Field Recap
14 December 9 St. Louis Rams W19–10 5–8 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
15 December 15 atSan Francisco 49ers L13–20 5–9 Monster Park Recap
16 December 23 Cleveland Browns W19–14 6–9 Paul Brown Stadium Recap
17 December 30 atMiami Dolphins W38–25 7–9 Dolphin Stadium Recap

Note:Intra-divisional opponents are inboldtext

Standings

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AFC North
W L T PCT DIV CONF PF PA STK
(4)Pittsburgh Steelers 10 6 0 .625 5–1 7–5 393 269 L1
Cleveland Browns 10 6 0 .625 3–3 7–5 402 382 W1
Cincinnati Bengals 7 9 0 .438 3–3 6–6 380 385 W2
Baltimore Ravens 5 11 0 .313 1–5 2–10 275 384 W1

Week 1: vs. Baltimore Ravens

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Ravens 0 10 01020
Bengals 9 3 7827

atPaul Brown Stadium,Cincinnati

Game summary

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In their very first Monday Night home opener, the Bengals and their offensive firepower began their 40th Anniversary season in Game 1 of the Monday Night Football doubleheader against the defending AFC North championBaltimore Ravens,with last year's top defense. In the first quarter, Cincinnati managed to cash in on a Raven fumble with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 39-yard TD pass to WRChad Johnson(whose TD celebration was on the sideline, in the form of a Hall of Fame jacket.) Later, the Bengals managed to turn another fumble recovery into points as kickerShayne Grahamkicked a 23-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Baltimore finally managed to score with RBMusa Smithgetting a 6-yard TD run. Cincinnati responded with Graham kicking a 40-yard field goal, while Ravens kickerMatt Stoverended the half with a 36-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Bengals defense struck big, as OLBLandon Johnsonrecovered a McNair fumble and returned the ball 34 yards for a touchdown, along with the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Baltimore took the lead with Stover getting a 23-yard field goal, while SafetyEd Reedreturned a punt 63 yards for a touchdown. Cincinnati regained the lead by turning an interception into a score as Palmer completed a 7-yard TD pass to WRT. J. Houshmandzadeh(followed by a successful 2-point conversion by RBRudi Johnson). After the Ravens managed to recover a Bengal fumble on Cincinnati's next drive, Baltimore had one final chance. Eventually, the Bengals held their ground and won.

The Bengals defense had a total of 6 takeaways while the offense only turned over the ball twice. The game was relatively close in score with the final chance to tie up the game coming with a bit more than one minute left on the game clock. The defense held Baltimore out successfully scoring the tying touchdown after they had "goal to go" for 8 consecutive plays (after penalties extended their opportunities). Two Bengals linemen, Willie Anderson and Levi Jones, did not play most of this game due to injuries.

With the win, Cincinnati began its season at 1–0.

Scoring summary

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Q1 – CIN – 8:38 – 39-yard TD pass fromCarson PalmertoChad Johnson(kick failed) (CIN 6–0)

Q1 – CIN – 4:07 –Shayne Graham23-yard FG (CIN 9–0)

Q2 – BAL – 11:56 –Musa Smith6-yard TD run (Matt Stoverkick) (CIN 9–7)

Q2 – CIN – 1:07 – Shayne Graham 40-yard FG (CIN 12–7)

Q2 – BAL – 0:06 – Matt Stover 36-yard FG (CIN 12–10)

Q3 – CIN – 8:57 –Landon Johnson34-yard fumble return TD (Graham kick) (CIN 19–10)

Q4 – BAL – 14:05 – Matt Stover 23-yard FG (CIN 19–13)

Q4 – BAL – 12:25 –Ed Reed63-yard punt return TD (Stover kick) (BAL 20–19)

Q4 – CIN – 8:53 – 7-yard TD pass from Carson Palmer toT. J. Houshmandzadeh(Rudi Johnson2-point conversion run) (CIN 27–20)

Week 2: at Cleveland Browns

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Bengals 7 14 17745
Browns 6 21 141051

atCleveland Browns Stadium,Cleveland, Ohio

Playing in their second game of the season, the Cincinnati Bengals had a lot of things go wrong. Playing Ohio state rivalsCleveland Browns,the defense looked the exact opposite as they did in week one. Browns quarterbackDerek Andersonstarted and threw for 328 yards and fivetouchdowns.It was only the third time in NFL history that two quarterbacks had thrown at least five touchdown passes in the same game.[12]Jamal Lewishad 215 yards rushing with one touchdown and the Browns had two receivers with over 100 yards,Braylon EdwardsandKellen Winslow.The Bengals offense tried their best to keep the team in the game, however, asCarson Palmerthrew for 6 TD's andChad Johnsoncaught for 209 yards.

The game started out slowly in the first quarter but the second quarter saw a combined 35 points scored. It was close in the end, when the Bengals started a drive with under one minute left. They managed to get the ball to the 50-yard line when Carson Palmer was intercepted byLeigh Boddenon an intended pass for Chad Johnson. This game ended up being the eighth highest scoring game in NFL history, but not the highest scoring game between these two teams. In 2004, the Bengals beat the Browns 58–48 for the second-most combined points. The Redskins (72) and Giants (41) combined for 113 points in 1966 for the most.

Scoring summary

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Q1 – CIN – 10:40 – 13-yard TD pass fromCarson PalmertoRudi Johnson(Shayne Grahamkick) (CIN 7–0)

Q1 – CLE – 5:02 –Phil Dawson39-yard FG (CIN 7–3)

Q1 – CLE – 0:09 – Phil Dawson 39-yard FG (CIN 7–6)

Q2 – CLE – 11:02 – 17-yard TD pass fromDerek AndersontoJoe Jurevicius(Dawson kick) (CLE 13–7)

Q2 – CIN – 7:40 – 23-yard TD pass from Carson Palmer toT. J. Houshmandzadeh(Graham kick) (CIN 14–13)

Q2 – CLE – 6:37 – 9-yard TD pass from Derek Anderson to Joe Jurevicius (Dawson kick) (CLE 20–14)

Q2 – CIN – 3:12 – 22-yard TD pass from Carson Palmer toChad Johnson(Graham kick) (CIN 21–20)

Q2 – CLE – 1:11 – 25-yard TD pass from Derek Anderson toKellen Winslow(Dawson kick) (CLE 27–21)

Q3 – CIN – 12:13 – Shayne Graham 20-yard FG (CLE 27–24)

Q3 – CLE – 8:24 – 34-yard TD pass from Derek Anderson toBraylon Edwards(Dawson kick) (CLE 34–24)

Q3 – CIN – 6:18 – 14-yard TD pass from Carson Palmer to Chad Johnson (Graham kick) (CLE 34–31)

Q3 – CLE – 6:04 –Jamal Lewis66-yard TD run (Dawson kick) (CLE 41–31)

Q3 – CIN – 0:53 – 5-yard TD pass from Carson Palmer to T. J. Houshmandzadeh (Graham kick) (CLE 41–38)

Q4 – CLE – 10:07 – 37-yard TD pass from Derek Anderson to Braylon Edwards (Dawson kick) (CLE 48–38)

Q4 – CLE – 5:47 – Phil Dawson 18-yard FG (CLE 51–38)

Q4 – CIN – 3:45 – 7-yard TD pass from Carson Palmer toGlenn Holt(Graham kick) (CLE 51–45)

Week 3: at Seattle Seahawks

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Bengals 7 3 2921
Seahawks 7 7 01024

atQwest Field,Seattle

Following their embarrassing divisional road loss, the Bengals flew toQwest Fieldfor an interconference fight with theSeattle Seahawks.The Seahawks won the toss, opted to receive the ball, and then proceeded to return the opening kickoff deep into Cincinnati territory.

The Bengals at Seattle in week 3

Seahawk QBMatt Hasselbeckcompleted an 18-yard TD pass to WRBobby Engramon that drive. Cincinnati responded with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 35-yard TD pass to WRT. J. Houshmandzadeh.In the second quarter, the Bengals took the lead with kickerShayne Grahamgetting a 43-yard field goal. However, Seattle took the lead with Hasselbeck completing a 42-yard TD to WRDeion Branch.

In the third quarter, Cincinnati struck back with LBLemar Marshallsacked Hasselbeck in his own end zone for a safety, along with the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, the Bengals took the lead with Graham getting a 24-yard field goal. The Seahawks responded with kickerJosh Browngetting a 23-yard field goal, while Cincinnati retook the lead with RBKenny Watsongetting an 8-yard TD run (with a failed 2-point conversion). However, Seattle took the lead with Hasselbeck completing a 22-yard TD pass to WRNate Burleson.The Bengals' special teams unit tried to get Palmer and his offense decent field position, but WRGlenn Holtfumbled the return at their own 29-yard line, allowing the Seahawks to recover the ball for the win.

Watson came into the game because Rudi Johnson was injured. Leon Hall got his first NFL interception. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson both gained more than 125 yards each receiving. Levi Jones saw his most extensive playing time so far in the season after an injury to Stacey Andrews forced the offensive line to be reshuffled. T

With the loss, Cincinnati fell to 1–2.

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 4: vs. New England Patriots

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Patriots 10 7 71034
Bengals 0 7 3313

Trying to stop a two-game skid, the Bengals went home for their second Monday Night game of the year. They wore their alternate uniforms as they played against theNew England Patriots.In the first quarter, Cincinnati trailed early as Patriots kickerStephen Gostkowskigot a 31-yard field goal, while QBTom Bradycompleted a 1-yard TD pass to LBMike Vrabel.In the second quarter, the Bengals managed to get on the board with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 1-yard TD pass to WRT. J. Houshmandzadeh.However, New England responded with Brady completing a 7-yard TD pass to WRRandy Moss.Near the end of the 2nd quarter, the Bengals had a chance to get closer to the Pats, but a miscommunication between Palmer and Chad Johnson resulted in a New England interception. Palmer and Johnson argued on the sidelines and all the way back to the locker room.

In the third quarter, Cincinnati continued to struggle as Patriots RBSammy Morrisgetting a 7-yard TD run. The Bengals' only response was kickerShayne Grahamnailing a 40-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, New England increased its lead with Gostkowski kicking a 36-yard field goal. Cincinnati's final response was Graham kicking a 48-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Patriots sealed the win with Brady and Moss hooking up with each other again on a 14-yard TD pass.

With their third-straight loss, the Bengals entered their bye week at 1–3. It also marked Cincinnati's 5th loss to New England in the last 6 meetings. After the game, Marvin Lewis was heard yelling at his players for their 1–3 record. He called a team meeting a few days later and said that "anyone who doesn't want to play shouldn't show up".

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 6: at Kansas City Chiefs

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Bengals 7 0 01320
Chiefs 10 10 0727

atArrowhead Stadium,Kansas City, Missouri

Coming off of their bye week with hopes to turn their season around, the Bengals flew toArrowhead Stadiumfor a Week 6 duel with theKansas City Chiefs.In the first quarter, Cincinnati trailed early as Chiefs kickerDave Raynerkicked a 32-yard field goal. The Bengals responded with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 42-yard TD pass to WRT. J. Houshmandzadeh.However, Kansas City responded with QBDamon Huardcompleting a 3-yard TD pass to TETony Gonzalez.In the second quarter, Cincinnati continued to struggle as Chiefs RBLarry Johnsongot an 8-yard TD run, along with Rayner ending the half with a 20-yard field goal.

After a scoreless third quarter, the Bengals tried to make a comeback in the fourth quarter as kickerShayne Grahamgot a 33-yard field goal. After Kansas City increased its lead with Huard and Gonzalez hooking up with each other again on a 26-yard TD pass, Cincinnati got within striking distance as Palmer and Houshmandzadeh hooked up with each other again on a 30-yard TD pass, along with Graham's 36-yard field goal. The Chiefs held on to get the win.

With their fourth-straight loss, the Bengals fell to 1–4. It also marked the first time in the Marvin Lewis era that Cincinnati had lost four-straight games.

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 7: vs. New York Jets

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Jets 7 13 3831
Bengals 3 7 72138

atPaul Brown Stadium,Cincinnati

Trying to snap a four-game skid, the Bengals went home for a Week 7 intraconference duel, as they hosted theNew York Jetsfor the first time in a decade. In the first quarter, Cincinnati trailed early as Jets QBChad Penningtoncompleted a 57-yard TD pass to WRLaveranues Coles.The Bengals responded with kickerShayne Grahamgetting a 20-yard field goal. In the second quarter, New York increased its lead with kickerMike Nugentgetting a 24-yard and a 35-yard field goal. Cincinnati responded with RBKenny Watsongetting a 3-yard TD run. The Jets ended the half with Pennington and Coles hooking up with each other again on a 36-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, New York added onto its lead with Nugent kicking a 43-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Bengals responded with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 3-yard TD pass to WRT. J. Houshmandzadeh.In the fourth quarter, Cincinnati's offense took over as Watson added a 1-yard and a 2-yard TD run on to his magnificent day. Afterwards, the Bengals defense sealed the win with CBJohnathan Josephreturning an interception 42 yards for a touchdown. Afterwards, the Jets end the game with Pennington completing a 32-yard TD pass to WRJerricho Cotchery.

With their four-game skid snapped, Cincinnati kept its playoff hopes alive by improving to 2–4.

Week 8: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Steelers 7 14 0324
Bengals 3 3 0713

atPaul Brown Stadium,Cincinnati,Ohio

Coming off their home win over the Jets, the Bengals stayed at home for an AFC North clash with thePittsburgh Steelers.In the first quarter, Cincinnati struck first with kickerShayne Grahamgetting a 31-yard field goal. However, the Steelers responded with QBBen Roethlisbergercompleting a 21-yard TD pass to WRHines Ward.In the second quarter, the Bengals struggled as Roethlisberger and Ward hooked up with each other again on a 6-yard TD pass. Cincinnati answered with Graham kicking a 20-yard field goal. Pittsburgh ended the first half with RBWillie Parkergetting a 1-yard TD run.

After a scoreless third quarter, the Bengals tried to come back as QBCarson Palmercompleted a 9-yard TD pass to WRT. J. Houshmandzadehin the fourth quarter. Pittsburgh sealed the win with kickerJeff Reednailing a 40-yard field goal.

With the loss, Cincinnati fell to 2–5.

Week 9: at Buffalo Bills

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Bengals 7 7 7021
Bills 7 6 31733

atRalph Wilson Stadium,Orchard Park, New York

Hoping to rebound from their divisional home loss to the Steelers, the Bengals flew toRalph Wilson Stadiumfor a Week 9 intraconference duel with theBuffalo Bills.In the first quarter, Cincinnati trailed early as Bills QBJ. P. Losmancompleted an 8-yard TD pass to WRLee Evans.The Bengals answered with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 15-yard TD pass to WRT. J. Houshmandzadeh.In the second quarter, Buffalo retook the lead with kickerRian Lindellgetting a 23-yard field goal. Immediately afterwards, Cincinnati took the lead as WR/KRGlenn Holtreturned a kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown. The Bills ended the half with Lindell getting a 21-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Buffalo regained the lead with Lindell kicking a 29-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Bengals went back into the lead with Palmer completing a 1-yard TD pass to FBJeremi Johnson.Cincinnati's struggles continued, with Lindell nailing a 38-yard field goal, along with RBMarshawn Lynchcompleting an 8-yard TD pass to TERobert Royal& getting a 56-yard TD run.

With the loss, the Bengals fell to 2–6.

Week 10: at Baltimore Ravens

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Bengals 0 6 31221
Ravens 0 0 077

Trying to snap a two-game losing skid, the Bengals flew toM&T Bank Stadiumfor an AFC North rematch with theBaltimore Ravens.After a scoreless first quarter, Cincinnati drew first blood in the second quarter as kickerShayne Grahammanaged to get a 34-yard and a 19-yard field goal. Ravens quarterbackSteve McNaircontinued to struggle, with an interception and several fumbles. In the third quarter, the Bengals increased its lead with Graham kicking a 22-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Cincinnati pulled away with Graham nailed two 35-yarders, a 21-yarder, and a 33-yard field goal. The Ravens managed to avoid a shutout loss with RBWillis McGaheegetting a 1-yard TD run.

With their season-sweep over Baltimore, the Bengals improved to 3–6.

Shayne Graham's seven field goals set a franchise record.

Week 11: vs. Arizona Cardinals

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Cardinals 7 14 14035
Bengals 7 6 14027

atPaul Brown Stadium,Cincinnati

  • Game time:1:00 p.m.EST
  • Game weather:44 °F (7 °C) (Cloudy)
  • Game attendance:65,403
  • Referee:Ron Winter
  • TV announcers (Fox):Sam Rosen(play-by-play) &Tim Ryan(color commentator)

Coming off their season-sweep over the Ravens, the Bengals went home a Week 11 interconference duel with theArizona Cardinals.In the first quarter, Cincinnati struck first with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 19-yard TD pass to WRT.J. Houshmandzadeh.The Cardinals answered with CBAntrel Rollereturning an interception 55 yards for a touchdown. In the second quarter, the Bengals regained the lead with kickerShayne Grahamgetting a 41-yard field goal. However, Arizona took the lead with QBKurt Warnercompleting a 44-yard TD pass to WRAnquan Boldin.Cincinnati responded with Graham kicking a 38-yard field goal, but the Cardinals increased their lead with Warner completing a 5-yard TD pass to WRLarry Fitzgerald.

In the third quarter, the Bengals trailed as RBEdgerrin Jamesgave Arizona a 3-yard TD run. Cincinnati tried to rally as Palmer completed a 37-yard TD pass to WRChris Henry,while RBDeDe Dorseyreturned a blocked punt 19 yards for a touchdown. The Cardinals sealed the win with Rolle returning an interception 54 yards for a touchdown.

With the loss, the Bengals fell to 3–7.

Week 12: vs. Tennessee Titans

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Titans 0 6 006
Bengals 7 7 14735

atPaul Brown Stadium,Cincinnati

Hoping to rebound from their loss to the Cardinals, the Bengals stayed at home, donned their alternate uniforms, and played a Week 12 duel with theTennessee Titans.In the first quarter, Cincinnati pounced first with RBRudi Johnsongetting a 5-yard TD run for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Titans answered with kickerRob Bironasgetting a 28-yard field goal. The Bengals responded with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 10-yard TD pass to WRChad Johnson.Tennessee ended the half with Bironas nailing a 23-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Cincinnati began to pull away as RBKenny Watsonmanaged to get a 6-yard TD run, while Palmer hooked up with Chad Johnson on a 2-yard TD pass. In the fourth quarter, the Bengals sealed the victory with Palmer hooking up with Chad for the third time on a 3-yard TD pass.

With the win, Cincinnati improved to 4–7.

Chad Johnson (12 receptions for 103 yards and 3 touchdowns) ended the game as the Bengals' All-Time receptions leader with 531. Also, this marked the third time in his career that he caught 3 touchdown passes in one game.

Week 13: at Pittsburgh Steelers

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Bengals 7 0 3010
Steelers 0 17 7024

atHeinz Field,Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Coming off their dominating home win over the Titans, the Bengals flew toHeinz Fieldfor a Week 13 AFC North rematch with thePittsburgh Steelers.In the first quarter, Cincinnati took the early lead as RBRudi Johnsongot a 1-yard TD run for the only score of the period. However, in the second quarter, the Steelers took the lead as QBBen Roethlisbergergot a 6-yard TD run, along with kickerJeff Reedgetting a 21-yard field goal. Pittsburgh ended the half as Roethlisberger completed a 2-yard TD pass to WRHines Ward.In the third quarter, the Bengals tried to get back into the game as kickerShayne Grahamnailed a 24-yard TD pass, yet Pittsburgh replied with Roethlisberger and Ward hooking up with each other again on an 8-yard TD pass.

With the loss, Cincinnati fell to 4–8.

For QBCarson Palmer,one week after completing a career-best 84.2% of his passes against Tennessee, he completed a career-worst 38.6% of his passes.

Week 14: vs. St. Louis Rams

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Rams 0 0 7310
Bengals 7 3 6319

atPaul Brown Stadium,Cincinnati

Hoping to rebound from their divisional road loss to the Steelers, the Bengals went home for a Week 14 interconference duel with theSt. Louis Rams.In the first quarter, Cincinnati drew first blood as RBRudi Johnsongot a 1-yard TD run for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Bengals increased their lead with KickerShayne Grahamgetting a 27-yard field goal for the only score of the period.

In the third quarter, the Rams got on the board as CBFakhir Brownreturned an interception 36 yards for a touchdown. Afterwards, Cincinnati responded with Graham kicking a 38-yard and a 32-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, St. Louis tried to come back as kickerJeff Wilkinskicked a 50-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Bengals ended the game with Graham nailing a 46-yard field goal.

With the win, Cincinnati improved to 5–8 and outright 3rd place in the AFC North with the Ravens' loss.

Week 15: at San Francisco 49ers

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Bengals 0 10 0313
49ers 0 14 6020

atBill Walsh Field at Monster Park,San Francisco

Coming off their home win over the Rams, the Bengals flew toBill Walsh Field at Monster Parkfor a Saturday night interconference duel with theSan Francisco 49ers.After a scoreless first quarter, Cincinnati trailed early in the second quarter as 49ers QBShaun Hillgot a 3-yard TD run. Afterwards, the Bengals took the lead as kickerShayne Grahammanaged to get a 24-yard field goal, while QBCarson Palmercompleted a 52-yard TD pass to WRChris Henry.San Francisco ended the half with Hill completing a 17-yard TD pass to TEVernon Davis.

In the third quarter, the 49ers increased their lead with kickerJoe Nedneygetting a 29-yard and a 38-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Cincinnati tried to respond as Graham kicked a 35-yard field goal. However, the 49ers' defense held on for the win.

With the loss, the Bengals fell to 5–9, securing Head CoachMarvin Lewis' first losing season with Cincinnati.

Week 16: vs. Cleveland Browns

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Quarter 1 2 34Total
Browns 0 0 7714
Bengals 0 19 0019

atPaul Brown Stadium,Cincinnati

Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the 49ers, the Bengals played their final home game of the year in a Week 16 AFC North rematch with theCleveland Browns.After a scoreless first quarter, Cincinnati slashed away in the second quarter as kickerShayne Grahamnailed a 29-yard field goal and QBCarson Palmercompleting a 5-yard TD pass to WRT.J. Houshmandzadeh,along with RBKenny Watsongetting a 1-yard TD run.

In the third quarter, the Browns began to fight back as QBDerek Andersoncompleting a 2-yard TD pass to WRBraylon Edwardsfor the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Cleveland drew closer with Anderson and Edwards hooking up with each other again on a 5-yard TD pass. Afterwards, the Bengals held on for the win.

With the win, Cincinnati improved to 6–9.

Week 17: at Miami Dolphins

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Bengals 7 14 71038
Dolphins 3 7 01525

atDolphin Stadium,Miami Gardens, Florida

Coming off their home victory over the Browns, the Bengals closed out their season atDolphin Stadiumin a Week 17 intraconference duel with theMiami Dolphins.In the first quarter, Cincinnati trailed early as Dolphins kickerJay Feelykicked a 49-yard field goal. The Bengals responded with QBCarson Palmercompleting a 2-yard TD pass to WRChad Johnson.In the second quarter, Miami took the lead with QBCleo Lemoncompleting a 5-yard TD pass to WRTed Ginn Jr.,yet Cincinnati replied with Palmer and C. Johnson hooking up with each other again on a 70-yard TD pass, including a 4-yard TD pass to WRAntonio Chatman.

In the third quarter, the Bengals increased their lead with SafetyChinedum Ndukwereturning a fumble 54 yards for a touchdown, along with the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, the Dolphins tried to come back as QBJohn Beckgot a 2-yard TD run, yet Cincinnati pulled away with RBKenny Watsongetting a 2-yard TD run and kickerShayne Grahamnailing a 30-yard field goal. Miami ended the game with Beck completing a 22-yard TD pass to WRDerek Hagan.

With the win, the Bengals closed out their season at 7–9.

Scoring summary

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Q1 – MIA – 11:16 –Jay Feely49-yard FG (MIA 3–0)

Q1 – CIN – 3:53 – 2-yard TD pass fromCarson PalmertoChad Johnson(Shayne Grahamkick) (CIN 7–3)

Q2 – MIA – 7:03 – 5-yard TD pass fromCleo LemontoTed Ginn(Jay Feely kick) (MIA 10–7)

Q2 – CIN – 6:27 – 70-yard TD pass from Carson Palmer to Chad Johnson (Shayne Graham kick) (CIN 14–10)

Q2 – CIN – 0:04 – 4-yard TD pass from Carson Palmer toAntonio Chatman(Shayne Graham kick) (CIN 21–10)

Q3 – CIN – 13:12 –Chinedum Ndukwe54-yard fumble return TD (Shayne Graham kick) (CIN 28–10)

Q4 – MIA – 12:21 –John Beck2-yard TD run (Jay Feely kick) (CIN 28–17)

Q4 – CIN – 10:03 –Kenny Watson2-yard TD run (Shayne Graham kick) (CIN 35–17)

Q4 – CIN – 2:16 – Shayne Graham 30-yard FG (CIN 38–17)

Q4 – MIA – 0:28 – 22-yard TD pass from John Beck toDerek Hagan(2-point conversion pass from John Beck to Derek Hagan)(CIN 38–25)

See also

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Notes and references

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  1. ^"2007 Cincinnati Bengals Draftees".Pro-Football-Reference.com.RetrievedJanuary 28,2014.
  2. ^"Henry gone for first half of season".Archived fromthe originalon December 13, 2013.RetrievedJuly 28,2013.
  3. ^"Kentucky confirms Bengals' Henry didn't fail test".May 23, 2007.
  4. ^"Lewis: Thurman can if he can".Archived fromthe originalon December 13, 2013.RetrievedJuly 28,2013.
  5. ^"NFL taps Thurman".Archived fromthe originalon December 13, 2013.RetrievedJuly 28,2013.
  6. ^"Porter fined by NFL for punching Bengals' Jones".July 20, 2007.
  7. ^"Notes: Bengals release Nicholson".Archived fromthe originalon December 13, 2013.RetrievedJuly 28,2013.
  8. ^"Lewis: Bengals linebacker Pollack plans to retire".April 22, 2008.
  9. ^"AFC Roundup: Bengals' Iron hobbles off field".August 10, 2007.
  10. ^"Archived copy".Archived fromthe originalon May 1, 2009.RetrievedJuly 28,2013.{{cite web}}:CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  11. ^"Cincinnati Bengals: Eric Henderson".Archived fromthe originalon December 13, 2013.RetrievedJuly 28,2013.
  12. ^Sports Illustrated, September 24, 2007, p. 24
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