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NFL 2015: Team-by-team grades

By Matt Verderame

Dec 13, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) celebrates after his team scores a touchdown during the second half of the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) celebrates after his team scores a touchdown during the second half of the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 29, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert (85) catches a pass for a touchdown from quarterback Andy Dalton (not pictured) in the first half against the St. Louis Rams at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert (85) catches a pass for a touchdown from quarterback Andy Dalton (not pictured) in the first half against the St. Louis Rams at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

Cincinnati Bengals

Grade: A+

What went right: This team finally took what appeared to be the next step. In the regular season, Cincinnati went onto the road and took out the Pittsburgh Steelers, while beating the Seattle Seahawks at home. For years, it has always seemed that the Bengals would get blown out against the elite teams in the NFL, but this was a different feel. The offense led the way with explosive playmakers from A.J. Green to Tyler Eifert, both of whom made the Pro Bowl.

What went wrong: The injury to Andy Dalton. Dalton was having the best season of his career, throwing for 3,250 yards and 25 touchdowns before throwing an interception to Stephon Tuitt. While trying to make the tackle on the Steelers’ lineman, Dalton broke his right thumb and could miss time in the postseason. If Dalton is out, AJ McCarron is in. It could be a dicey situation in the Queen City.

Offseason expectations: This ownership group is known for being extremely tight in the wallet and loyal to its own players. The Bengals are going to keep this team together and add through the draft. Cincinnati might want to start adding some youth on the fronts and maybe find a safety to push George Iloka, but this is a sound, balanced team. Cincinnati should be very good for a long time.

Next: Cleveland Browns

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