2017 record ATS: 9-7
Optimist view: It says here the Bengals don't have a 7-9 roster (13-18-1 since 2016) but have been poorly coached. And though they still can't quit Marvin Lewis, who's back with a new contract for Year 16, evidence that the Bengals are otherwise trying a different tack exists, beginning with the reinvestment in Andy Dalton's protection.
No unit held back the Bengals more than their offensive line, which will have at least two new starters — LT Cordy Glenn and rookie C Billy Price — and a position coach, Frank Pollack, each acquired to help steady wobbly Andy Dalton and a woeful ground game.