CINCINNATI -- For a moment, it looked like Zac Taylor's trademark optimism might have disappeared.
One couldn't fault the Cincinnati Bengals coach for finally slipping into a bit of cynicism after a fifth straight loss, this one a 30-7 rout by the Dallas Cowboys on Dec. 13. Instead, Taylor faintly laughed during his postgame news conference, shook his head and assured his virtual audience that yes, the optimism still existed.
Taylor's cheery disposition has been unshakable despite a 4-24-1 coaching record in two seasons. It's a hallmark of not only his coaching style but his overall demeanor.