Desperate times call for desperate measures, and the Cincinnati Bengals were clearly in that position after Jake Browning floundered for the third consecutive game. He left the coaching staff and front office with no choice, as the Bengals will now put their season in the hands of the 40-year-old, Super Bowl-winning quarterback Joe Flacco. The team is banking on Flacco keeping them afloat not only in the AFC North but also in the conference, as both are down through five weeks in hopes that Joe Burrow can return in December for the stretch run. What is known about Flacco is that he’s a quick study, can process well, and is well-versed in the AFCN. Let’s examine what to expect from the newest member in stripes.
What to Expect From Joe Flacco for the Cincinnati Bengals
Leadership 101
Flacco is the definition of a professional and has led teams in the league for 18 years. He will be a valuable presence in the locker room and the huddle for a team that badly needs a jolt in both areas. Flacco will also not be afraid to hold players accountable if they aren’t paying attention to maintain his high standards. If this sounds familiar to Burrow, you’d be exactly right and likely played a role in why Bengals brass was so interested in Flacco, as he’s expected to start in Week 6 against the Green Bay Packers.
Reading Is Fundamental
One of the most important aspects of quarterback play at all levels is the ability to accurately read a defense. Browning seemed lost in this department, and it’s one that Flacco excels in. Another feather in the cap of Flacco is his ability to get the ball out fast and put it where it needs to go. These are basic tenets that Browning also couldn’t execute, and it cost him his job. The Bengals will get Flacco up to speed over the next few days so he’s ready to face the Packers for the second time this season.
Strong Arm
The arm of Flacco is still strong after all these years, and he’ll have no trouble getting the ball to his playmakers of Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and the tight ends of Mike Gesicki and Noah Fant. Browning seemed to forget about his tight ends and would often lock onto players in predetermining reads. Cincinnati has been dreadful in pushing the ball downfield, which is important in any offense, but especially magnified in this Bengals offense that’s predicated on the threat of deep throws.
The Flacco era, at the minimum, will be interesting. That’s a start when the team hasn’t been watchable the last three weeks. All of Bengaldom hopes Flacco can keep the team relevant until the return of Burrow for meaningful football in December and possibly beyond.
Main Photo: Junfu Han-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The post What to Expect From Joe Flacco for the Cincinnati Bengals appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.