Ravens: 5 things to watch vs. Bengals

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4. Who will carry the Bengals’ ground attack?

Sep 20, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (25) runs the ball against San Diego Chargers linebacker Jeremiah Attaochu (97) in the second half at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati defeated San Diego 24-19. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

Last season, the Bengals started the year expecting second year RB Giovani Bernard to be their lead RB. However, rookie Jeremy Hill stole the show, finishing with over 1,000 yards on the ground and earning the feature back role.

Going into this season, it was assumed that Hill would be the go-to guy after his strong rookie performance. But, Hill was largely ineffective in week 1, and he fumbled twice in week 2, as Bernard rushed 20 times for 123 yards.

Going into week 3, it is no longer safe to assume that Hill is “the man” in the Bengals’ backfield. He has been severely outplayed by the smaller Bernard in both games. Bernard was originally to be used as the passing down and change of pace back, but he may have earned himself a chance to be the starter.

Bernard, as a smaller guy, might not be able to handle a full workload, but if he continues to outshine Hill, the Bengals might not have any choice but to start him. Keep an eye on who is getting the carries, because this week could be a big teller of what RB will shine this year for the Bengals.

Next: No. 5

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