Chatterbox Bengals: A Cincinnati Bengals NFL Podcast

Host Stone Shields breaks down the growing buzz around Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher and his reported interview with the Cleveland Browns. Could Pitcher be on the move, and how realistic is a departure from Cincinnati? Stone examines why Pitcher is gaining head coaching attention, what his exit would mean for the Bengals offense, and the internal and external candidates who could replace him. Plus, Amarius Mims pushes for Dalton Risner’s return, the Bengals’ best path to re-signing him, and reactions to Dane Brugler’s All-Rookie honorable mentions for Dylan Fairchild, Demetrius Knight, and Barrett Carter. A must-listen for Bengals fans tracking coaching moves, roster decisions, and the team’s offseason direction.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMeOqiSmGZM    OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr  

Reid Maus and Stone Shields welcome The Athletic’s Paul Dehner Jr., host of the Growler podcast, for an in-depth conversation on the state of the Cincinnati Bengals. Paul breaks down his recent column on why continuity with Duke Tobin and Zac Taylor may be the Bengals’ best path forward — and why a “keep it simple” offseason could be key to a 2026 rebound. The trio dives into Joe Burrow’s influence within the organization, the pressure cooker nature of next season, and whether major coaching or front office changes ever truly made sense. They also examine looming defensive roster turnover, including the expected departure of Trey Hendrickson, the futures of Cam Taylor-Britt and Joseph Ossai, and the Bengals’ plan to rebuild a struggling defense. Plus, Paul discusses the linebacker room, free agency strategy, cap space outlook, and just how many new defensive starters could arrive next season. The episode wraps with some fun — including Pearl Jam, OutKast, and Paul’s all-time favorite concert stories.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F81ylkz7PPQ    OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

On this episode of Chatterbox Bengals, host Stone Shields breaks down the Cincinnati Bengals’ offseason outlook by identifying the team’s top five roster needs — all on the defensive side of the ball. Following confirmation from owner Mike Brown that Duke Tobin and Zac Taylor will return, Stone explains why continuity on offense makes sense while the defense demands urgent attention. Stone walks through why safety tops his list of needs after years of instability following Jessie Bates’ departure, detailing why the Bengals can’t afford to neglect the position again. He also dives into the defensive tackle spot, explaining why Cincinnati still hasn’t replaced D.J. Reader, and why interior pressure and run defense must be priorities in both the draft and free agency. The discussion continues with a critical look at the linebacker room, including why starting two rookies failed, what role veterans could play, and why the Bengals must add experience and leadership at the position. Stone also evaluates the cornerback group, discussing Dax Hill and D.J. Turner, potential contract extensions, and the need for veteran depth behind the starters. Finally, Stone addresses edge rusher and the future of Trey Hendrickson, explaining why it may be time for the Bengals to turn the page and how young players like Myles Murphy factor into the long-term plan. With cap space available and minimal needs on offense outside of right guard, this episode makes the case that Cincinnati’s entire offseason must be focused on fixing a defense that held the team back in 2025. A must-listen breakdown for Bengals fans looking ahead to the 2026 offseason and beyond.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIwSpwF_znQ    OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Cam Taylor-Britt's Jail Sentence: A Reckless Driving Incident Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt, a 26-year-old NFL player drafted in 2022 from Nebraska, faced a brief jail stint in early 2026 due to a traffic violation from the previous year. The incident stemmed from September 2025, shortly after a Bengals home game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to Cincinnati Police reports, Taylor-Britt drove recklessly on Joe Nuxhall Way near Paycor Stadium while crowds lingered post-game. Officers cited him for reckless operation and driving without a valid license. The case resolved quietly until January 6, 2026, when Taylor-Britt pleaded guilty in Hamilton County court. A judge sentenced him to five days in jail, ordering immediate custody. Local reporter Chelsea Sick captured footage of the player, on crutches from a season-ending Lisfranc foot injury sustained in November 2025 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, heading to serve his time. This legal trouble capped a challenging period for Taylor-Britt. His 2025 season featured inconsistent play, leading to benching and limited snaps before the injury ended his year. He recorded 21 tackles and five pass deflections in eight games. The short sentence reflects a misdemeanor traffic offense rather than a serious crime. Taylor-Britt accepted responsibility by pleading guilty and serving the time promptly. As he approaches free agency in 2026, the episode serves as a reminder of off-field accountability for professional athletes. While the jail term was brief, it highlighted the risks of post-game decisions in high-visibility areas. Bengals fans hope Taylor-Britt uses this as motivation moving forward.

Craig Sandlin and Reid Maus break down the Bengals season ending on a loss to the Cleveland Browns. Cincinnati cements a top 10 pick with the loss.   

In this episode, Stone Shields dives headfirst into one of the most polarizing topics surrounding the Cincinnati Bengals: the continued usage of safety Geno Stone — and the eye-opening comments made by defensive coordinator Al Golden. Stone breaks down why Geno Stone has remained in the lineup despite persistent struggles, missed tackles, and effort concerns, and why those decisions raise serious questions about roster evaluation and accountability. He reacts to Al Golden’s public defense of Stone, exploring whether those comments were genuine belief, organizational messaging, or an attempt to help a struggling player find a future elsewhere in the league. From free-agency expectations to contract realities, Stone explains how the Bengals misread warning signs coming out of Baltimore, why the team should have moved on sooner, and why there is no scenario where Geno Stone should return to the roster next season. The discussion also touches on leadership, communication value, and the fine line between human empathy and football reality. The episode then shifts to a much more positive storyline: the rapid development of offensive tackle Amarius Mims. Stone reacts to reporting from Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic, breaking down why Mims has quietly become one of the Bengals’ biggest long-term wins. From draft-night risk to year-two growth, Stone explains why Duke Tobin deserves credit for getting this pick right — and how Mims’ toughness, pass protection, and willingness to play through injury have directly impacted Joe Burrow. The episode also tackles common national narratives about the Bengals’ offensive line, explaining where criticism is fair — and where it’s lazy. Stone breaks down the current state of the offensive line, contract timelines, depth concerns, and why continuity up front may actually be the smartest move this offseason. Topics covered include: Why Geno Stone’s role became indefensible Al Golden’s comments and what they really mean The Bengals’ failure to cut bait sooner Accountability vs. empathy in pro sports Amarius Mims’ growth and why he’s a cornerstone piece Offensive line stability, contracts, and offseason decisions Separating real problems from lazy Bengals narratives   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPQ5TSyzkNM      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr  

Reid Maus and Stone Shields break down one of the biggest offseason questions facing the Bengals: should Cincinnati extend Chase Brown as he heads into the final year of his rookie contract? Coming off the best stretch of his season, the duo discusses how important Chase Brown has become to the offense alongside Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins — and how his all-purpose production stacks up historically within the franchise. They dive into what makes Brown such a clean fit in this offense, from his ability to handle a heavy workload to his impact as a receiver out of the backfield. The conversation then shifts to the bigger picture: the Bengals’ long track record of finding productive running backs, the reality of today’s RB market, and whether it makes sense to pay a running back when so much money is already tied up in Burrow and the wide receiver room — especially with major needs on defense. Reid and Stone compare Chase Brown to recent running back extensions around the league, debate realistic price points, and identify where the deal stops making sense. They also touch on the possibility of a holdout, how fans and the league would react to an extension, and why Cincinnati could face criticism if they continue pouring resources into the offense instead of fixing the defense. It’s a detailed discussion about value, roster construction, and whether Chase Brown is a long-term building block — or another position the Bengals can afford to replace while reallocating resources elsewhere.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHdJGqrkhTo      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields discusses the biggest talking point surrounding the Bengals: Joe Burrow playing in the season finale against the Cleveland Browns. With Zac Taylor confirming Burrow and the starters will go, Stone breaks down why he strongly supported Burrow’s return once healthy — building momentum, reinforcing team identity, and reminding the locker room what this offense looks like at full strength with Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Chase Brown behind the best offensive line of Burrow’s career. At the same time, Stone explains why this final week feels different. He dives into the very real risk of injury in a meaningless game, the physical nature of Browns matchups, and the added danger of facing a locked-in Myles Garrett chasing NFL history. Stone discusses league-wide precedent for resting stars in Week 18, the potential offseason consequences of an injury, and why sitting Burrow for just this one game would have made sense — even for someone who’s been “banging the table” for him to play. From Zac Taylor’s perspective, Stone also examines why finishing the season with three straight wins matters to the coaching staff and front office, and how that narrative could shape the Bengals’ offseason decisions. He raises concerns about whether late-season momentum could be used as justification to “run it back” in 2026, despite deeper roster issues. Stone makes it clear: watching Joe Burrow play is a privilege Bengals fans should never take for granted — but the stakes, risks, and optics of this finale are massive. The episode closes with a look ahead to what a win (or loss) against Cleveland really means, and what everyone should be watching closely as the season comes to an end.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0WqMB6JoIo      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields recaps the Cincinnati Bengals’ 37-14 win over the Arizona Cardinals, their second straight victory by 20+ points — something Cincinnati hasn’t done since 2021. Stone breaks down how Joe Burrow’s return has the offense humming, from methodical, clock-chewing opening drives to explosive playmaking from Ja’Marr Chase, Chase Brown, and a re-emerging Andrei Iosivas. Stone also pumps the brakes on the defensive “turnaround,” explaining why the recent success has come against inferior quarterbacks and why the larger season-long issues can’t be ignored — even with improved tackling, better third-down situations, and more pass rush pressure. Plus: what the Bengals’ late-season wins mean (and don’t mean), why Burrow playing vs. Cleveland is a risk worth discussing, and how the draft picture factors in. Finally, Stone dives into the viral moment of the game — Cody Ford’s unforgettable catch-and-run on his birthday — and how one play instantly flipped the fanbase’s perception, while also touching on defensive standouts (and ongoing problems) including Myles Murphy’s surge, the linebacker concerns, and the never-ending questions at safety.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X22GAPKlkG0      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Bengals once again DOMINATE a meaningless game... but at least it was fun. Ja'Marr Chase gets in the endzone twice. Craig Sandlin and Reid Maus break down the game and what it means for the Bengals' season. 

The Cincinnati Bengals get their fifth win of the season, as they dominate the Dolphins. Fueled by turnovers, Joe Burrow and Chase Brown. Craig Sandlin, Casey McCollister and Reid Maus on the POD. 

In this podcast, we react to and break down everything Joe Burrow and Zac Taylor had to say during their press conferences yesterday. From Burrow’s mindset and leadership to Taylor’s comments on team direction, accountability, and expectations, we cover the biggest takeaways that matter most for the Cincinnati Bengals moving forward. Chatterbox Sports has the best Bengals coverage, don't miss out sub now: https://www.youtube.com/@ChatterboxSports Joe Burrow once again showed why he’s the face of the franchise, addressing questions about health, preparation, and the standard he expects from himself and the team. We analyze Burrow’s tone, body language, and key quotes, and what they reveal about where the Bengals are mentally as the season continues. What stood out the most? And what should fans read between the lines? We also react to Zac Taylor’s press conference, including his comments on adjustments, player performance, and the overall trajectory of the Bengals. Is Taylor confident in the current plan? Are changes coming? We discuss how his answers align—or don’t—with what fans are seeing on the field and what it could mean for the rest of the season. Bengals fans! Help us out and like this video from  @ChatterboxSports   This reaction video is perfect for Bengals fans looking for clear, honest analysis without the coach-speak. Whether you’re encouraged, frustrated, or somewhere in between, we break down what was said and why it matters in the bigger picture of Cincinnati’s goals. Make sure to like, subscribe, and drop a comment with your thoughts on Joe Burrow and Zac Taylor’s press conferences. What stood out to you the most, and how do you feel about the Bengals right now? #Bengals #JoeBurrow #ZacTaylor

Stone Shields breaks down another crazy week for the Cincinnati Bengals, starting with breaking news out of Miami as the Dolphins bench Tua Tagovailoa and hand the start to rookie Quinn Ewers—a move that could significantly impact Cincinnati’s chances on Sunday. Stone explains why this matchup presents a real opportunity for the Bengals, how Miami’s offensive identity has shifted, and what it means for a struggling Cincinnati defense. The conversation then turns to Joe Burrow, his mindset, and the growing national panic surrounding his recent comments. Stone dives into new reporting from Diana Russini, Burrow’s relentless rehab process, and why frustration—not dissatisfaction with Cincinnati—is driving the quarterback’s emotions. He also discusses whether Burrow should play the rest of the season, the risks of the Cleveland finale, and why chasing draft position shouldn’t override protecting the franchise quarterback. Finally, Stone tackles the bigger picture: the Bengals’ organizational philosophy. From Duke Tobin and Zac Taylor’s future to Jason Williams’ blunt column on ownership’s indifference toward fans, this episode pulls no punches. Why change is unlikely, why frustration is justified, and why Bengals fans may need to accept an uncomfortable reality moving forward—all laid out honestly and directly.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LYPJ7XzftE8      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Are Zac Taylor and Duke Tobin really likely to return in 2026? In this video, we break down the latest Cincinnati Bengals outlook, ownership tendencies, and organizational stability that point toward Zac Taylor and Duke Tobin remaining in charge beyond the 2025 season. With Joe Burrow as the franchise cornerstone, the Bengals value continuity, and history suggests major changes don’t come easily in Cincinnati. We analyze why Zac Taylor’s relationship with Burrow, along with Duke Tobin’s long-standing influence in the front office, makes their return in 2026 a realistic outcome. From playoff appearances to roster-building philosophy, this video explains what has kept Taylor and Tobin secure—and what could finally put their seats under real pressure. But what if the Bengals do decide to make a move? We also explore several potential Zac Taylor replacements if ownership chooses a new direction. Possible candidates include offensive-minded head coaches, proven coordinators, and rising NFL coaching names that could better maximize Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and the Bengals’ offensive core. We discuss the type of coach Cincinnati would likely target, whether they’d prioritize offense or leadership, and how any change could impact the team’s Super Bowl window. This video is perfect for Bengals fans looking for realistic expectations, long-term franchise analysis, and honest discussion about the future of the coaching staff and front office. Whether you support Zac Taylor or think a change is eventually coming, this breakdown gives you the full picture. 👉 Bengals news 👉 Zac Taylor future 👉 Duke Tobin 2026 outlook 👉 Potential Bengals head coach candidates Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with who you think should coach the Bengals if Zac Taylor is ever replaced.

Bengals Shut Out 24-0 by Ravens: Playoff Hopes Crushed in Frigid Defeat. In a bitterly cold afternoon at Paycor Stadium, where temperatures hovered around 10 degrees with a wind chill dipping below zero, the Cincinnati Bengals suffered a devastating 24-0 shutout loss to the Baltimore Ravens on December 14, 2025. This lopsided defeat not only marked the Bengals' first shutout loss since 2018 but also officially eliminated them from playoff contention with three games remaining in the season, dropping their record to 4-10. The game started competitively, with the Bengals' defense forcing early pressure on Lamar Jackson, including sacks from players like Myles Murphy. However, the Ravens' offense gradually took control. Baltimore struck first with a touchdown pass from Jackson to rookie running back Rasheen Ali, a 32-yard strike that capitalized on big plays to DeAndre Hopkins and Zay Flowers. Jackson added another TD pass to Flowers before halftime, putting the Ravens up 14-0 despite an interception. The second half was all Baltimore. Derrick Henry dominated on the ground, rushing for 100 yards on just nine carries, gashing the Bengals' porous defense. Kicker Tyler Loop added a 27-yard field goal in the third quarter, extending the lead to 17-0. The dagger came late when safety Alohi Gilman intercepted Joe Burrow and returned it for a touchdown, sealing the 24-0 final score. For the Bengals, it was a complete offensive collapse. Joe Burrow struggled immensely in the freezing conditions, throwing multiple interceptions and failing to generate any points despite occasional drives into Ravens territory. The team converted poorly on third downs (going 1-for-8 early on) and couldn't overcome red-zone inefficiencies or turnovers. Ja'Marr Chase, typically a reliable target, was limited, reflecting the overall dysfunction. This loss caps a disappointing 2025 campaign for Cincinnati, marking the third straight year missing the playoffs. Just weeks ago, the Bengals upset the Ravens 32-14 on Thanksgiving behind Burrow's return from injury, but today's performance highlighted ongoing issues with defense, consistency, and execution in adverse conditions. Meanwhile, the Ravens improved to 7-7, keeping their slim AFC North title hopes alive behind Pittsburgh. Baltimore's balanced attack—Jackson's efficient passing, Henry's explosive rushing, and opportunistic defense—proved too much for a Bengals team that simply couldn't respond. Fans left Paycor Stadium dejected, as another season ends without postseason football in Cincinnati. Questions now turn to the offseason: roster changes, coaching adjustments, and how to rebuild around Burrow for a stronger 2026.

In today’s video, we dive deep into Zac Taylor’s status as the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals and what his long-term future could look like as the franchise prepares for another pivotal offseason. After a roller-coaster year filled with high expectations, tough injuries, and major adjustments, Bengals fans are asking the big question: Is Zac Taylor still the right leader for this team moving forward? Help us get to 22k subscribers on YouTube! SUB NOW: https://www.youtube.com/@ChatterboxSports We break down Taylor’s coaching decisions, his relationship with Joe Burrow, team culture, offensive performance, and how Cincinnati’s front office may evaluate him heading into the next NFL season. With pressure increasing in a competitive AFC North, the Bengals must determine whether continuity or change gives them the best chance to return to Super Bowl contention. But that’s not all — we also take a close look at the potential re-signing of defensive end Joseph Ossai, who enters the offseason with major uncertainty. Should the Bengals invest in Ossai’s upside, athleticism, and rotational value? Or is it time to explore other options along the defensive line? We break down his production, fit in Lou Anarumo’s system, contract expectations, and how his future impacts Cincinnati’s pass-rush strategy. Help us out at  @ChatterboxSports  and LIKE today's show! Whether you're a die-hard Bengals fan or an NFL follower interested in offseason storylines, this video gives you an in-depth, analytical look at the decisions that could shape Cincinnati’s roster and coaching staff for years to come. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Cincinnati Bengals news, offseason breakdowns, and NFL analysis. Let us know in the comments: Should the Bengals stick with Zac Taylor? And should Joseph Ossai be brought back? #ZacTaylor #JosephOssai #BengalsRumors

Stone Shields dives deep into the growing conversation surrounding Joe Burrow following his postgame comments and recent press conferences, breaking down why the reaction from Bengals fans and the national media has been so intense. Stone examines the noticeable shift in Burrow’s tone since returning from injury, the emotional moments at the podium, and why this latest press conference sparked panic about the long-term future of the Bengals’ franchise quarterback. In this episode, Stone explains why it’s fair to feel uneasy without fully hitting the panic button. He explores Burrow’s frustration through the lens of missed playoff opportunities, constant injuries, and the weight of carrying an organization that often feels held together by a single thread. The discussion also touches on the Bengals’ roster construction, organizational decisions made at Burrow’s urging, and the reality that postseason success—not just playing football—is what fuels Burrow’s passion for the game. Stone balances the emotional and human side of Joe Burrow with the football realities facing Cincinnati, discussing contract implications, long-term outlook, and why winning is the only true cure. It’s a candid, thoughtful conversation about where the Bengals are, why Burrow sounds different, and why every Joe Burrow press conference moving forward has become must-watch.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkLkU3YVSRA      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields takes a deep dive into the Bengals’ loss to the Buffalo Bills — and specifically why Cincinnati’s defense couldn’t deliver in the biggest moments. While Joe Burrow’s two late interceptions will dominate the box score, Stone explains why the game truly swung on a handful of defensive breakdowns that occurred long before the fourth quarter. Stone walks through five critical plays — including multiple 4th-down conversions and Josh Allen’s back-breaking 40-yard touchdown run — that flipped momentum, extended Buffalo drives, and ultimately cost the Bengals control of a game they once led 14–3. He breaks down how issues like inconsistent pass rush, soft coverage, poor rush-lane discipline, and continued struggles against tight ends resurfaced at the worst possible time. But it's not all doom and gloom. Stone highlights the flashes of speed, physicality, and effort this defense showed — and why the bar for this unit isn’t “elite,” but simply average given the firepower on offense. On Sunday, they fell short of that. Stone also reacts to the third-and-15 scramble that sealed the game, why the onside-kick debate misses the bigger picture, and how key coaching decisions factored into Cincinnati’s collapse. Later in the episode, Stone shifts to Tee Higgins’ situation, praising the wide receiver’s toughness while discussing his latest concussion evaluation, the team’s long-term investment in him, and the realistic possibility he could sit if the Bengals fall out of playoff contention. It’s a detailed, no-nonsense breakdown of what went wrong, where the Bengals showed progress, and what it means moving forward — especially with a massive matchup against Baltimore looming.   Today's Episode on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=xJd93WQGpC4&feature=youtu.be      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr    

Reid Maus and Craig Sandlin discuss the news that the Bengals are waiving Jermaine Burton. While they're live, news breaks that Trey Hendrickson is out for the year. 

On this episode of Chatterbox Bengals, live from Smoke Justice in Covington, Kentucky, hosts Reid Maus and Casey McCollister break down a brutal Bengals collapse in Buffalo that felt about as “Cincinnati” as it gets. Reid and Casey walk through how the Bengals controlled most of the game behind a nearly flawless Joe Burrow…until everything flipped in two snaps: a corner blitz that turned into a devastating pick-six, followed immediately by a tipped-ball interception. They dive into how those mistakes—combined with a defense that once again couldn’t get stops, whiffed on tackles, and allowed Josh Allen to rip off a back-breaking 40-yard run on a critical drive—turned a 92% win probability into a crushing loss and effectively put the Bengals’ playoff hopes in hospice. The guys also zoom out and get blunt about bigger-picture issues: the paper-thin margin for error with this roster, frustration with the defense and young linebackers, questions surrounding Trey Hendrickson’s situation, Zack Taylor and Duke Tobin’s futures, and whether it’s time to shift fully into “evaluation mode” and think about draft position and organizational change. They even kick around what the Bengals should do at backup quarterback behind Burrow next season. If you’re trying to process another Bengals gut punch, question where this franchise is headed, or just want to commiserate with fellow fans, this is the episode for you.   Today's Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inXQ2FEj1hw      OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/  The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424  Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062  The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522  513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr